Bexhill News, October 2024, Issue 28

OCTOBER 2024 | ISSUE 28

YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR BEXHILL, COODEN, SIDLEY, PEBSHAM AND SURROUNDING AREAS

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: LOCAL NEWS • EVENTS • FEATURES • MOTORING • SPORT

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2 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill

WELCOME

WE’RE so delighted when our

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us they’ve received great feedback

from their adverts in the publication.

These are the people who allow

this newspaper to be free to you, the

reader, so we’re really happy when you

support them back.

Lightning Fibre, which has advertised

in all our publications since their

inception, recently conducted a

customer survey which showed more

than 52% of customers had seen the

company’s print advertising - more

than any other media outlet.

The company asked its customers

if they had seen their TV, Radio or

Print adverts - and the result was

that more had seen their print ads

than TV or Radio.

Rob Reaks, Chief Commercial

Officer at Lightning Fibre said:

“We’ve advertised regularly with

Hailsham News for many years, and

more recently the new Eastbourne

News, and these campaigns help us

reach a targeted, local audience at an

affordable cost. This has helped us

build our brand and grow our customer

base, and this research shows that

printed ad marketing really does work.”

Greg Rose from Maybugs has

also played a massive part in

supporting our series of newspapers

since they started.

He told us: “Regional media group

has always been our go-to advertising

option because it works as they

publish quality publications that people

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deal with too!”

We are dedicated to providing you

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is only possible thanks to the continued

support from all the advertisers you

see in this newspaper.

Paul Gibson, Group Editor

THE TEAM

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without express permission of the editor.

Council leader welcomes

Sidley’s Community Hub plans

A DECISION to give the green light

for a new community hub in Sidley

has been warmly welcomed by the

leader of Rother District Council.

Councillor Doug Oliver said the

move by the District Council to give

planning permission for the £2

million development is a massive

boost for the community.

The hub will provide new changing

facilities for sports, a café, function

rooms, parking and landscaping.

Councillor Oliver said: “I am

absolutely delighted that the

applicant, Heart of Sidley, has

received planning permission for

their community hub.

“Although there is a lot of hard

work to do, the people of Sidley and

wider area can look forward to a

fantastic new facility.”

The Heart of Sidley planning

decision is another major step in

the £19.3 million Levelling Up Fund

project that will deliver cultural-led

regeneration and help improve

the lives of some of the most

vulnerable and disadvantaged people

in the district.

Challenge to raise

suicide prevention

awareness hailed

a success

THE Pelham Community Hub

marked World Suicide Prevention

last month by holding its annual

Midnight to Midnight relay.

Firefighters from Bexhill Fire

Station helped to kick off the event

by joining the first 5km loop around

Sidley, as well as the last loop

24 hours later.

The event was organised by

RunningSpace, the award-winning

Suicide Prevention project of The

Pelham charity based in Bexhill. This

was the fourth annual Midnight to

Midnight relay help by the Hub.

It aimed to raise awareness of

suicide, to support people who might

be struggling to hold on to life, or

who have lost a loved one to suicide.

A variety of local groups and

individuals took part in the event

to eventually complete 180 loops,

totalling a massive 558 miles.

A spokesperson said: “A big

shout out to an amazing group of

Councillor Hazel Timpe, portfolio

holder for neighbourhood services at

Rother District Council, said: “As well

as the community hub for Sidley, the

Levelling Up funding will see millions

of pounds being provided for the

De La Warr Pavilion, enabling us to

harness the potential of our venue,

20 young people from the Youth

Group at Beulah Baptist Church who

ran and walked through pouring

rain at the 6pm slot, without one

word of complaint.

Thank you to East Sussex Fire and

Rescue Service who ran with us for

the first and last loop, and gave us so

much encouragement, even meeting

us in their fire truck in the middle of

the night. Thank you to Rustico for

providing us with pizza, to Western

Road Fruitiers for donating fresh

fruit throughout the day, to Happy

Tails Vets who supplied emergency

cable ties for the route signs, to

Bexhill Town Council for sponsoring

the signage, and to the residents

of Sidley for cheering us all on

around the route.”

Jay Carroll, Chairman for 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

creating new jobs and opportunities

for learning and skills.”

Councillor Oliver, who chairs the

Levelling Up Fund Board, added: “We

look forward to celebrating the next

key stages of both projects over the

coming months.”

Work on the new Community

life, and we are eagerly looking

forward to starting the work on this

build in the Autumn.

“This achievement marks a

significant milestone in our journey,

and we extend our gratitude

to Rother 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, CEO and Director

of the De La Warr Pavilion said:

“Many congratulations to Heart

of Sidley on the approval of their

Hub to be built at Sidley Recreation

Ground in Canada Way is due to

commence this autumn and be

completed by winter 2025.

More information about Heart

of Sidley and the new community

hub can be found at

www.heartofsidley.co.uk

planning application for the

Sidley Community Hub.

“The Levelling Up monies of

over £19m 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.”

4 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Pensioners to lose

winter fuel payments

following vote

THERE has been outrage recently

as the new labour Government

announced it is to cut Winter

Fuel Payments which could leave

millions of pensioners cold in

the coming months.

This comes as figures from Age

UK estimate that tens of thousands

of pensioners across East Sussex

will lose their payments as a result

of the decision made by the new

Labour government.

Bexhill & Battle will be the worst

affected constituency in East Sussex,

according to figures, due to the

average age of the area’s population.

Dr. Keiran Mullan, MP for Battle

and Bexhill said: “I could not in

good conscience vote to make my

constituents poorer. I will sleep well

tonight knowing that I voted to defend

my constituents.

It is staggering that more than

25,000 pensioners in Bexhill & Battle

will lose this vital financial support.

Labour are punishing pensioners for

their choice to give above inflation

pay rises to the unions who donate

millions of pounds to them.”

Winter Fuel Payments have

been given to pensioners across

the country since 1997, with each

successive Government committing

to it. Labour has now removed this

crucial lifeline.

It is an astounding scale of financial

abandonment for pensioners across

our constituency which will be the

worst affected of all in East Sussex.

I was pleased to take part in the Save

the Winter Fuel Payments protest and

the debate in Parliament recently to

show how many MPs are opposed to

this proposal, and I will continue to

fight against this decision.”

Bexhill Mayor, Paul Wilson said:

“As Mayor, I am saddened to see the

reduction in winter fuel payments to

our pensioners. No one should have

to choose between staying warm and

making ends meet, especially during

the coldest months.

Thankfully, we have community

spaces in Bexhill, like The Pelham

and Pebsham Community Centre,

that offer warmth and support.

We will continue to push for more

assistance and work to ensure our

vulnerable residents are cared for.”

Caroline Abrahams CBE, Charity

Director at Age UK said: “We’re

deeply disappointed, but not

surprised, that the vote to brutally

means-test Winter Fuel Payment was

Caroline Abrahams CBE,

Charity Director at Age UK

WHAT DO

YOU THINK?

Email your comments to

letters@bexhill.news

passed. As soon as the Government

announced it was instructing its MPs

to support it this was the inevitable

result, but we would like to thank all

those in every party who voted against

the policy or abstained.

“There’s been a lot of discussion

about the Government’s decision,

but at heart Age UK’s critique of their

policy is really simple: we just don’t

think it’s fair to remove the payment

from the 2.5 million pensioners

on low incomes who badly need it,

and to do it so quickly this winter,

at the same time as energy bills

are rising by 10%.

“It is crystal clear that there is

insufficient time to make any serious

impact on the miserably low take-up

of Pension Credit before the cold sets

in this autumn, and the Government

has brought forward no effective

measures to support all those whose

tiny occupational pensions take

them just above the line to claim. It’s

true they have agreed to extend the

Household Support Fund until April

and they deserve some credit for that,

but the HSF is an all-age fund that you

have to apply for, so we know it will

only help a small proportion of all the

pensioners who will be in need as a

result of their policy change.

“The Government has also tried

to suggest that the increase in State

Pension for older people next year

as a result of the Triple Lock means

there’s no need to worry about how

they will cope now, but that won’t

help anyone this winter and most

pensioners will not benefit to the

extent being suggested - either

because they are on the old State

Pension which attracts less of an

increase, or because they don’t

qualify for a full State Pension in

the first place.

“The reality is that driving through

this policy as the Government is doing

will make millions of poor pensioners

poorer still and we are baffled as to

why some Ministers are asserting

that this is the right thing to do. We

and many others are certain that it is

not, and that’s why we will continue

to stand with the pensioners who

can’t afford to lose their payment and

campaign for them to be given more

Government support.

“Meanwhile, winter is coming and

we fear it will be a deeply challenging

one for millions of older people

who have previously relied on their

Winter Fuel Payment to help pay

their energy bills and who have no

obvious alternative source of funds

on which to draw. As a charity, we

will do everything we can to help

them, but with so many in need

and no extra support on offer from

the Government at the moment it’s

looking like an incredibly uphill task.”

HOW TO GET HELP

Most people get the Winter Fuel

Payment automatically if they’re

eligible. You do not need to claim

if you get any of the following:

Pension Credit, Universal Credit,

Income Support, income-related

Employment and Support Allowance

(ESA), income-based Jobseeker’s

Allowance (JSA), Child Tax Credit or

Working Tax Credit.

To check if you are eligible,

visit: www.gov.uk/winter-fuelpayment/how-to-claim,

or

telephone: 0800 731 0160.

Free, independent, confidential

and impartial advice if you’re

suffering from debt and financial

problems is available from Bexhill’s

Citizen’s Advice. For support,

call 01424 869 352.

If you are struggling to pay bills,

need help with a benefits issue, or

are concerned about growing debt,

there is free, confidential support

and advice available. Contact

the East Sussex welfare benefits

helpline on 0333 344 0681 or email:

benefitseastsussex@harcuk.com.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill OCTOBER 2024 NEWS 5

Health workers

appeal to stop

re-purposing of

free car park

A FREE car park in Bexhill could

be redeveloped into a storage

facility by Rother District Council if

plans are approved.

The plans for the car park in

Beeching Close would see 60 free

parking bays removed and replaced

with storage units, which health

workers at the nearby NHS Diagnostic

Centre say would leave them with a

large reduction of spaces.

The current owners of the car park,

Rother District Council, say after a

consultation, an average of 40 vehicles

use the car park Monday to Friday

and on average 10 vehicles use the car

park Saturday to Sunday.

Due to rising costs of maintaining

car parks and a need to increase

revenue, if this car park were not

used for storage, the Council would

be considering introducing charges

at a similar rate to nearby Wainwright

Road car park (£2.30 per day).

The parking team of Rother District

Council confirmed: “The Wainwright

Road Car Park has 80 spaces and

on average 37 vehicles use the car

park Monday to Friday. Therefore,

given the usage details of both car

parks, the loss of car park spaces

can be accommodated by surplus

capacity at the Wainwright Road car

park on average.”

WHAT DO

YOU THINK?

Email your comments to

letters@bexhill.news

However, letters of appeal sent

to Rother District Council express

frustration from workers at the NHS

Diagnostics Centre in Beeching Road.

One letter stated: “Since the Bexhill

CDC opening 18 months ago it has

seen tens of thousands of local

patients for CT & MRI scanning,

X-Ray, Ultrasound, Echo Cardiology,

blood tests and lung function tests.

This has been of immeasurable

benefit to the local community.

Many staff need to be able to

work in the Diagnostic Centre and

they use this car park every day, 7

days a week. The CDC car park is

needed for patients to use and for

locating the scanners, so staff use

this car park instead if they can’t take

public transport.”

If the plans are approved, the site

will be used for the storage of ‘Food

Waste Caddies’, which is a nationally

phased project by the Department

for Environment, Farming and Rural

Affairs to implement weekly food

waste collections.

The authority says the total

requirement for the caddies can be

housed in 32, 20-foot containers and

will be utilised for the 18 month period

of the DEFRA campaign.

Rother District Council currently

utilise a number of private storage

facilities. These come from a selection

of facilities including ones within

Bexhill, Hastings, and even further

out of the district in Eastbourne.

These facilities help the Council

fulfil some of their statutory

requirements, but the Council would

like to bring the storage in-house to

significantly reduce costs. Securing

storage facilities for the District will

also improve the sustainability of the

Council by reducing or removing

the need for out-of-district storage

uses and sites.

If approved, the facility will be built

in stages with containers for the food

waste delivered in the Autumn with

19 additional containers delivered

in the Winter.

Twelve double-stacked containers

against the boundary will be added

at a later date if the Council increases

its requirements and will likely be

used for longer-term storage and

require less access.

Residents can view the plans on

the Rother District Council website

using Planning Application number:

RR/2024/1423/P.

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6 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Man jailed after setting

fire to Bexhill home

Fairtrade anniversary

marked with coffee morning

A HASTINGS man has been jailed

for setting two properties on fire

in East Sussex.

Alex Reynolds was sentenced

to a total of nine years and three

months’ imprisonment when he

appeared before Lewes Crown Court

on Friday, 13 September for his

involvement in two fires.

Police were called to a report of a

property which had been set on fire

in St Marks Close, Bexhill shortly

before 10pm on 13 November 2023.

This caused significant damage

to the property.

Reynolds was arrested and released

under investigation.

On 19 March 2024, officers received

a call that a property in Theaklen

Drive, St Leonards was on fire.

It was deemed suspicious, and

Reynolds was located near the

property and was arrested.

After an investigation which proved

Reynolds was at the address in Bexhill

at the time of the arson, he was

charged with arson with recklessness

as to whether life was endangered.

He pleaded guilty on 17 May at

Lewes Crown Court.

DNA was found at the property in

St Leonards and he was then charged

with arson. He pleaded guilty on 17

July at Brighton Magistrates’ Court.

The judge sentenced

Reynolds, 27, of Edmund Road,

Hastings to six years and three

months’ imprisonment.

At sentencing, the judge determined

that Reynolds should be subject to a

three-year extended sentence. This

is used when an offender is deemed

to be dangerous that an extended

licence period is required to protect

the public from risk of serious harm.

It was extended to nine years

and three months.

Detective Sergeant Chris Milner

said: “This is a really significant

sentence and is truly justified in

the circumstances.

“Reynolds is a serial arsonist who

was escalating his offending to the

point that he was risking the lives

of others and causing significant

damage. I am glad we can bring

justice to the victims.

“He is now behind bars for a long

time and this shows Sussex Police’s

commitment to tackling offenders.

“I would like to thank all those that

were involved in the investigation,

from those that initially attended,

the officers that were on a protracted

scene guard, the Crime Scene

Investigators and all those that work

behind the scenes to help investigate

these offences and build the

files for court.”

Jack, Nigel, Neil and Lesley from Bexhill Fairtrade Town along with Cllr Ruairi McCourt

CENTRAL Ward Councillors Ruairi

McCourt and Christine Bayliss

hosted a Fairtrade Coffee morning

last month to celebrate 30 years of

Fairtrade and Fairtrade Fortnight.

Based at Channel View, the

pair hosted a book sale as well as

serving up fairtrade coffee and tea

and homemade cakes. They also

organised a Foodbank collection

with donations that will support

local families and individuals who

are finding it hard to make ends

meet this autumn.

They were joined by the Bexhill

Fairtrade Community team,

who launched the Fairtrade Rice

Challenge to support education

for the children of the poorest

farmers in Malawi.

For every 90 kgs of rice sold, the

scheme pays for one child’s education

for a year. Thanks to the generosity

of passers-by, the team sold a

significant number of bags of rice and

they are well on the way to meeting

the challenge.

Jack Doherty who heads the local

Fairtrade team said “The generosity

and empathy towards our weakest

and poorest producers of tea, coffee,

chocolate and marmalade was most

encouraging. Thank you to everyone

who stopped to talk to us about

making the world a kinder and fairer

place. We encourage everyone to

give Fairtrade products a go and to

understand how together we can

transform lives in the process”.

Cllr Christine Bayliss said ‘We have

had a fabulous morning. The weather

was fantastic and we made just over

£400 to continue our campaigns in

Bexhill and Battle. I’d like to thank

the generosity of our members

and supporters as well as those

who just stopped by to join us for a

natter and a cuppa’.

Hundreds gather at De La Warr to witness

the pre-windrush era portrayed in dance

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

VISITORS to Bexhill seafront were

treated to a display of dancers

dressed in restrictive Victorian

costumes as they told the story of

pre-Windrush Britain.

Organised by Bexhill entertainment

company, 18 Hours, the ‘Black

Victorians’ show is the work of

Artistic Director and Choreographer

Jeanefer Jean-Charles MBE who has

worked on productions at large-scale

events such as Eurovision 2023,

London 2012 Olympic Opening

Ceremony and the Queen’s Platinum

Jubilee Pageant.

Black Victorians is inspired

by nineteenth-century studio

photographs of black men, women

and children - Black Chronicles

II curated by Renée Mussai at the

Autograph Gallery in London.

Exploring a complex, but often

forgotten black presence in pre-

Windrush Britain, this performance

calls attention to previously hidden

figures and challenges historical and

contemporary perceptions.

Dancers were dressed in Victorian

costumes, shedding them in

rebellion as they danced in African,

contemporary and hip-hop styles, reimagining

a moment in history.

Their movements invoked their

origins in powerful ways, bringing

voice and body to the portraits

that inspired them.

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8 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Four-year project to create beach

garden becoming a reality

RESIDENTS in Bexhill can now

access parts of the beach they

couldn’t before, thanks to a

unique initiative funded totally by

grants and donations.

The Beach Garden is the brainchild

of ex-Mayor Lynn Langlands, who

has worked tirelessly since 2020 when

she realised that disabled people had

difficulties accessing the beach, so the

idea was pitched to create the garden.

Located on West Parade, the project

is open to the public after four weeks

of building and raising awareness of

the project to passers-by. It will cost

around £60,000 to complete with the

ongoing maintenance costs being

met with other donations and grants.

The design was created by Elise

Liversedge, a local architect, after

consultation with individuals

and groups who had problems

accessing the beach.

The Environment Agency offered

reclaimed wood to be able to create

most of the structure, which the sea

has already weathered.

Hugh Allen from Bruce and Co

Builders of Bexhill, whose family

have completed a variety of projects

locally since 1889, ensured the project

is sympathetic to its surroundings

and, wherever possible, made from

recycled materials.

Native beach plants such as

sea kale, carpobrolus, sea grass,

sea spurrey, sea pea, and yellowhorned

poppy will be planted in the

spring to decorate the gardens. The

intention is to make it an educational

environment with information

boards explaining the different types

of plants found on the local shores

and the wildlife habitats that live on

and amongst them.

The particular part of the beach

was selected for a number of reasons

and highlighted by the Environment

Agency as a ‘stable’ area which does

not flood and is protected by sea

defences. Also, it is convenient for the

nearby toilets, ease of parking and

the location of the ‘Wave of Hope’, a

major community artwork created

by Bexhill Creative with pebbles

painted by children during the Covid

Lockdown of 2020.

Lynn Langlands said: “Following

a meeting with the Pevensey to

Eastbourne Coastal Defence team and

hearing about how it plans to reduce

coastal erosion as a result of climate

change, I had an idea for a project on

the beach in Bexhill-on-Sea.

I was keen to try and demonstrate

in a small way how we might be able

to create a garden area on the shingle

that would increase biodiversity

and, in turn, show how natural

solutions such as planting can help to

stabilise the shingle.

I was also increasingly aware that

many of our residents and their

families were being denied access

to one of our town’s greatest assets…

the sea. The access to the beach

is limited, and the only ramp and

boardwalk is far up the Eastern end of

the promenade.”

I am working with the Rother

Officer for Equality and Diversity to

ensure that all local groups are aware

of the project and can contribute and

influence outcomes.”

Residents are being urged to

lend their support to the project

by sponsoring a plank. For a £100

donation, you can have a specially

engraved plank on the garden.

Visit the Eco Hub in The Mall

in Western Road, or email

hello@communitysupporters.org.uk

or call 07852 763706.


A shining example of a Merryweather steam pump

Bexhill firefighters in 1896 with the Merryweather which was supplied the previous year. Picture courtesy of Bexhill Museum

Bexhill’s first fire

engine returns to

town after 100 years

BEXHILL’S first fire engine is now

on display at Bexhill Museum

— but it’s taken one hundred

years to get there!

It was first offered for display in 1920

when it was retired from service but

there was no room for it then as the

museum had only one gallery.

It was found in the collection of

another museum by now-retired

Bexhill firefighter Keith Ring in 2019.

With the support of East Sussex Fire

and Rescue Service, plans were made

to bring her home.

Now, after partial renovation in

the museum’s workshop and Bexhill

Fire Station, it glows brightly in

the Transport Gallery, thanks to

the support of dozens of individual

donors, a £3,000 grant from Bexhillon-Sea

Town Council and fundraising

by local firefighters.

The fire engine is a Merryweather

steam pump, built in 1895. It has a

coal-fired boiler to produce water

pressure. This powered a pump which

operated two hoses.

It was stationed at the fire station

which was then situated behind the

town hall in Amherst Road and was

drawn by two horses.

It is still owned by the Fire Service

and is on loan to the museum.

After it was withdrawn from fire

service in 1920 it spent 13 years as

a pump with the Bexhill Borough

Surveyor’s Office before it was

put in storage.

Then it went on its travels. It was

sent to Northamptonshire where a fire

service museum was planned, This

failed to materialise so it was moved to

another potential site in Hampshire,

but that plan failed as well.

It ended up with a fire engine

collector in Yorkshire. In

October 2021, it was brought to

Hastings Fire Station and later to

Bexhill Fire Station.

A public appeal for money to

restore it was launched with the Fire

Service holding a series of fundraising

events.

Since May this year, it has been

in the museum workshop where a

volunteer team, led by Ken Bywater,

has been sprucing it up.

His team of Steve Chatfield,

Stuart Pemberton, Roy Blackmore,

David Aldred and Graeme Lacey

have repainted it and polished the

brass and copper.

The wheels and brakes went for

repair to royal wheelwrights Croford

Coachbuilders in Ashford.

The “Bexhill Urban District Council”

lettering shown in the photograph

taken in 1896 was painstakingly

recreated by hand by Dr Amy

Goodwin, an expert in historic

transport insignia based in Falmouth.

Bexhill Museum, in Egerton Road,

is open every day except Mondays

from 11am to 4pm.

There are four main galleries

covering natural history, costume

and social history, Bexhill’s motoring

heritage and the town in World War 2.

Admission is £4 for adults, £3 for

concessions and £2 for children over

five years old. Under-fives are free.

David Aldred on polishing duty

Rolling it out. Steve Chatfield, Ken Bywater and District Curator Julian

Porter move the Merryweather from the workshop to the gallery

Graeme Lacey, who restored the lamps, fits one in position Traditional signwriting Stuart Pemberton and Steve Chatfield at work underneath the Merryweather

10 REGULARS

OCTOBER 2024


COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

BUSINESS LOCAL NETWORK FOR

ENTREPRENEURS.Hailsham, Eastbourne &

Uckfield — 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 problemsolve.

Hailsham: Abbots Wood Manor, BN27

3AL, Tuesdays: 15 Oct & 19 Nov – TO BOOK: bit.

ly/BLN_Hailsham; Eastbourne: Mortain Place,

BN22 0AB, Wednesdays: 23 Oct & 27 Nov –

TO BOOK: bit.ly/BLN-Eastbourne; Uckfield:

Hurstwood View, TN22 3FH, Tuesdays: 8 Oct &

12 Nov – TO BOOK: bit.ly/BLN-Uckfield

BEXHILL

BEXHILL STAMP & POSTCARD CLUB .St

Augustine’s Church Hall, Cooden Drive, Bexhill,

TN39 3AZ. Wednesday, 23 October, 7.30pm.

Come and enjoy an evening of friendly chat, and

a talk and display on ‘Monaco’ whilst you enjoy

refreshments and wait with bated breath for our

sensational raffle. Everyone is welcome.

CANCER RESEARCH UK CHRISTMAS CRAFT

FAIR. Robertsbridge Village Hall, 11-23 Station

Road, Robertsbridge TN32 5DG. Friday, 8

November, 10am-3pm. Free entry, please come and

support local independent stall holders, tea/coffee/

cake available. PLEASE BRING CASH

JUMBLE SALE. St. Michael’s Church Hall,

Glassenbury Drive, Bexhill TN40 2NY. Saturday, 26

October, 10.00am. Lots of bargains, entrance 50p.

LITTLE COMMON COMMUNITY LIBRARY.

Community Centre, Shepherds Close, Little

Common, TN39 4SQ. As Bexhill library is closed for

several months why not visit us! Tuesdays 9.30-

3.30 & Fridays 9.30-12.30. Over 3,000 books. Free

parking. A Community library run by volunteers.

Charity No.: 109659.

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION WOMEN’S SECTION

LITTLE COMMON. The Poppy Club, Meads Avenue,

Little Common. Saturday 12 October 8pm-11pm.

Annual Poppy Appeal Dance live music with Just

George. Tickets available behind the bar. Everyone

welcome. All monies raised goes to The Poppy

Appeal.

SIDLEY HEALTH WALK. Every Monday. Meet at

Ninfield Road (TN39 5BA). Free one hour group

walk led by trained community volunteers. No

need to book, just pop along shortly before the

start time. Starting in quiet residential streets and

exploring footpaths into Combe Valley Countryside

Park, including the disused railway line and the

Greenway.

GIRLS GROUP – SIDLEY YOUTH HUB. Meet at 121

Ninfield Road, TN39 5BD. Every Monday 6pm-

8pm. A FREE youth group for young women aged

10 to 16 in Sidley and surrounding areas. For more

information, please get in touch. 01424 725995,

email: EHRother@eastsussex.gov.uk

AUTUMNAL CRAFTY WORKSHOP. Mindful

Oak Sussex CIC, St Michael’s Church Hall, 20

Glassenbury Drive, TN40 2NY. Thursday 24

October, 9.30-12.30pm. 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 seasonal crafting session at our Memory

Moments Café. £3 – Booking is essential, contact:

Samantha Keylock — email: mindfuloaksussex@

outlook.com. Phone: 07453 917399

EASTBOURNE

SOCIETY OF EASTBOURNE ARTISTS — ART

EXHIBITION AND SALE. Cavendish Hotel, 38

Grand Parade Eastbourne. Saturday 2 & Sunday

3 November 2024. Open 10 to 4pm, Free Entry,

Donations to Charity.

NIK NAKS. Archery Youth Hub, Seaside, BN22

7RR. Every Monday, 7-9pm. A group for young

adults, ages 18-25 with mild to moderate learning

disabilities to develop their social skills, life skills,

through team building, cooking, crafting, games

and more. Price: £2. Contact: 01323 463244 or

EHeastbournehailshamseaford@eastsussex.gov.uk

ART. Age Concern, The William & Patricia Venton

Centre, Junction Road, BN21 3QY. Tuesdays: 1 Oct,

8 Oct, 15 Oct, 22 Oct, 10am-12pm. Come and enjoy

the freedom of painting/drawing whatever you like

and meet like-minded folk whilst doing it. We have

people in the group that are more than willing to

help if need be. All materials provided. Note: This

isn’t an art class. Price £4. Contact: 01323 638474,

theventoncentre@gmail.com

BEATS AND BARS MUSIC SESSIONS. Leaf Hall,

51 Seaside, Eastbourne, BN22 7NB. Tuesdays,

5:30–7:00pm. Free music-making sessions for

young people (12-25) focusing on lyric writing,

music production, and performance. To sign up,

contact AudioActive on: info@audioactive.org.uk

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

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.

CUCKOO TRAIL HEALTH WALKS. The

Conservation Volunteers. Horam, Hellingly,

Hailsham, Polegate – All walks start at 10:30am.

Improve your health and wellbeing with gentle,

friendly outdoor walks along the Cuckoo Trail.

Walk locations rotate weekly: 2nd Tues: Horam

– old station platform (TN21 0HL); 3rd Tues:

Hellingly – Station Rd car park (BN27 4EU); 4th

Tues: Hailsham – South Rd car park (BN27 2AU);

5th Tues (if applicable): Polegate – in front of the

station. No booking required, all walks are FREE,

just show up for a friendly stroll. Contact Becky for

details: rebecca.lewis@tcv.org.uk / 07483 045706.

To submit your listing for publication on this

page, visit: www.eastsussex.news/communitynoticeboard

or scan this QR Code.

The publishers cannot be responsible for any errors or

omissions in this noticeboard.

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Charities receive £22,000 cash boost from

popular Bexhill 100 motoring event

FOUR local groups and causes have

been awarded £5,500 each thanks to

money raised at the Bexhill 100 Car

Show which took place in August.

Organisers announced the event

experienced its largest numbers

through the gates who enjoyed

displays from motoring clubs

and privately owned cars from

throughout the country.

Members of the car club gathered

at its monthly meeting to present

cheques to representatives of the

club’s four chosen charities, and to

hear the financial results following

the car show at the Polegrove

Recreation Ground.

Treasurer Charlie Rowland

announced despite the wet start to the

event, gate receipts had exceeded all

previous expectations with a record

sum of £22,000.

The club’s donations to local

charities to date now stand at

whopping £180,000.

Chairman Chris Speck, Bexhill &

Battle MP Kieran Mullen and Bexhill

Councillor Abdul Azad presented

the cheques for £5500 to Canine

Partners, Golden Marigold Club, East

Sussex Fire Cadets (Bexhill) and East

Sussex Young Carers.

Chris reminded members that

2025 will be the 20th anniversary

of the club’s Classic & Custom Car

Show, and it is on track to reach its

intended target of a £200,000 raised

for local groups.

Canine Partners

East Sussex Young Carers

East Sussex Fire Cadets (Bexhill)

Golden Marigold Club

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12 REGULARS

OCTOBER 2024


READERS’ LETTERS

Write to the editor by emailing: letters@bexhill.news

crime rate. It can be easy to read all

the scary and crime-ridden headlines

and feel sad about the town we live in.

Bexhill is full of some incredible, friendly

groups, clubs and venues, which we also

highlight in this newspaper.

Lloyds Bank in Devonshire Road, Bexhill which closed last month

BANK CLOSURE

DISAPPOINTMENTS

DEAR EDITOR, Firstly, May we

congratulate your newspaper on

reporting the local issues that would

otherwise go unnoticed or ignored.

Regarding the closure of the banks

in Bexhill. It is/has already created a

toxic environment apart from the crime

mentioned in your paper there are the

issues of stress and anxiety being placed

on bank users.

It is absurd that people now have to

travel to Eastbourne to do their banking.

The average age in Bexhill must be far

higher than the national average.

The banks have no consideration for the

fact that a lot of people in Bexhill do not,

or will not, move to online banking, they

are frightened of the consequences.

Also, there is a large number who do

not use computers/mobile phones. We do

not understand why “banking hubs” have

not happened. Are the banks deliberately

trying to upset their customers?

It would be interesting for you to talk

to Nationwide and see how many people

have moved to their branch in Bexhill

from those that have closed down.

What with the banks and now fuel

allowance. It seems the pensioner doesn’t

matter anymore.

Mike Webb

Dear Editor, Reading of the closure of

Lloyds Bank, following that of Barclays

and NatWest, brings into question the

current TV ad campaign by Barclays,

(about starting its customers’ financial

awareness at a young age), which has

“in branch” as one of the options for

those customers who wish to discuss

matters with their bank.

How does this sit with the number of

branches it has closed in many towns

across the country?

Bexhill now has three fairly sizeable

buildings — all of which, presumably, have

large vaults — to be occupied. Let’s hope

some modicum of creativity is exercised

when it comes to the approval of any

future plans for these ex-banks!

M Chawner

DEAR EDITOR, It is very sad to

see so many shops, and the banks,

closing in Bexhill.

When I went to the post office the

queue was outside the door. Being

mostly elderly in Bexhill, some cannot

stand for long.It is going to be very

hard on the ones who do not have a

smartphone or computer.

We are being left behind. A lot will

not be able to afford Broadband when

they take our Landlines away. Some

don’t have mobiles.

The way things are going there won’t be

any jobs. They want us to use self-tills.

We will have no contact with people.

There will be more mental illness. I am

a fit 78 year old, not looking forward

to the future.

Mrs Jane Cridland

Ed: I share your frustration and something

must be done as, in my opinion, more

people are moving away from online

banking and social media due to ongoing

scams and clickbait. To be able to walk into

a bank and sort out any personal issues

with your account is extremely important.

Even if it is just to see a friendly face behind

the counter — that can mean so much. It

was announced that Hailsham is to receive

a Banking Hub in the near future, as any

more closures, would result in the loss

of a bank-owned ATM. Maybe Bexhill is

on a very long list of towns to get one of

these facilities.

MAKE IT POSITIVE

DEAR EDITOR, I write in response to

the article from the Bexhill Chamber of

Commerce and Tourism “Update”.

As a past member of the Chamber,

(now retired), I was deeply shocked to

read such negative news about our town.

Whilst recognising that Bexhill does

indeed have serious problems (which

are getting worse and worse). Isn’t the

job of the Chamber to help and promote

businesses and encourage tourism? Such

negative comments made publicly will

surely do the opposite.

If the “full force of the law” is not

being felt in Bexhill, then surely the

Chamber, the Town Council, local Rother

councillors, local County councillors and

our new MP should be working to do

something about it — together.

Many people in the town volunteer

to litter pick, etc. but will they now just

give up thinking that it is a lost cause,

along with anyone even vaguely thinking

about coming here?

Let’s hope that the next article from

the Chamber will be positive and tell

us their plans to improve matters, and

not merely highlight the issues. After

all, their website states that “Bexhill

Chamber works closely with its retail

and hospitality members to maintain and

improve our unique town centre offer”.

Otherwise, its negativity will have

stirred no one into taking positive action

to improve all that is damaging to their

members and the town generally.

Dru Tramaseur

Ed: Bexhill News is here to raise any issue

the town has and needs addressing. The

first step is to raise these issues, which will

hopefully trigger the powers that be to

come together to fix them. The Chamber’s

President, Howard Martin, this month

talks about the benefits of a Business

Improvement District (BID), which I hope

will be useful information on how other

towns are tackling these important issues.

ARE WE REALLY SAFE?

DEAR EDITOR, I am here to give my

personal opinion regarding the latest

article stated on page 20 (Headline:

“Where’s the full force in Bexhill”).

I’m only 22. Bexhill means so much to

me as a person, counting my lucky stars

to be born in such a lovely little town.

But now, I can’t even set foot in the

streets at night, frightened something

will happen. The love I had for it is

disintegrating, due to councillors

failing to address the overall plague of

criminality gnawing away at it.

I am fuming, ashamed

and heartbroken.

Vital lifelines for the elderly dying,

services carved to the bone, roads more

blotchy and unstable.

I am not proud of our town unless

someone has the backbone, we can nip

the problems in the bud. Otherwise, our

county will be left to the mercy of more

chaos. Why should we, many retirees

and ex-Londoners live our lives in fear

and not peace?

Danielle Hicks

Ed: I’m so sorry to read your letter,

Danielle. We must remember that Bexhill,

and Rother, in general, have a very low

Blackfriars development

Email your letters to the editor at letters@bexhill.news.

Deadline for November edition is 20th October.

POOR PARKING &

PREPOSTEROUS

PAYMENT PROCESSORS

DEAR EDITOR, Following on from your

article about health workers and the

car park in Beeching Road, I’d like to

highlight the failings of the new parking

regime in Bexhill generally.

As a seaside town we have events

with thousands of visitors but the

on-street parking in the town has been

compromised such that there are less

than 300 all-day parking spaces (on the

seafront exclusively).

These are necessarily used by shop

owners, workers and volunteers,

leaving limited numbers for visitors.

The four-hour limit on much of the

parking space is pointless and negative,

witness Egerton and Brockley Roads

which are now sparsely used. Visitors

don’t want to come to the seaside for

just four hours.

On a separate matter, the exclusive

parking for RingGo smartphone payment

is being accepted elsewhere in England,

notably in Brighton, as discriminatory.

I have no problem with having to pay

for parking but, like most people I have

spoken to, use a credit/debit card, and

not the smartphone system with its

indefensible surcharge.

Has Rother District Council just

accepted this imposition from the county

and will there be any improvements to

these two problems?

Steve Hall

BLACKFRIARS

DEVELOPMENT

DEAR EDITOR, It is wonderful news

to hear that affordable homes are

back in this impressive, and I hope,

influential development.

Congratulations to Rother DC Housing

Company Ltd, and all those who have

made this possible.

Julia Dance

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill OCTOBER 2024 13

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14 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Veterans and residents

mark 84 years since

Battle of Britain

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

A SPECIAL service took place

at the War Memorial in Bexhill

on Sunday, 22nd September to

commemorate 84 years since

the Battle of Britain and hosted

Military representatives, Veterans

and the town’s MP.

The parade was also attended by the

Deputy Lieutenant for East Sussex

Derek Stevens DL, The Bexhill Town

Mayor Cllr Paul Wilson, Deputy Town

Mayor Cllr Memish Huseyin, East

Sussex County Council Member for

Bexhill South Cllr Ian Hollidge and the

Chair of Rother District Council Cllr

Richard Thomas.

Wreaths were laid to commemorate

the anniversary and the last post was

played by Andrew Gill from the Royal

British Legion, Little Common Branch.

There were 12 Standards on parade

including the Union Standard, the

RAF Association, Royal British

Legion, Veterans Associations and the

RAF Air Cadets.

On parade were veterans from

Bexhill, Little Common, Hastings,

Heathfield, East Grinstead and thirty

RAF Air Cadets from 2262 Bexhill

on Sea, 304 Hastings and 88 Battle

Squadrons, along with some Polish

representatives.

A short Service was led by the

Reverand Kevin Mepham.

On 15th September 1940, the

Luftwaffe launched a massive

assault in the skies over Britain. It

was a day of heavy fighting, and

the Luftwaffe suffered significant

casualties. It was a decisive defeat for

the Luftwaffe, and since then this date

has been commemorated as “Battle

of Britain Day”.


Boudoir photographer releases

fundraiser calendar to support victims

Thanks 4 the Mammaries Calendar Project 2025

A PRE-LAUNCH event has ended

a 6-month journey for a local

photographer who has created

a calendar which was inspired

by her mother who suffered

from breast cancer.

Sharon Lawrence, wanted to find

a way to give back to victims as she

knows first-hand how uplifting it

could be to experience the pampering

and exhilarating feeling of having

intimate portraits taken.

As a professional boudoir

photographer, she created the project

which helped thirteen women,

all who had suffered with breast

cancer, find a little piece of their

lost femininity.

Sharon did not realise quite how

much an important part of their

recovery this would be and how much

emotional healing would take place

with these pampering experiences.

The project was completed solely

with volunteers and together with

hair stylists and make-up artists, each

woman was spoilt and photographed,

creating images that portrayed

their personality.

Miss July said: “I have never felt

good about my body and have been

very self-conscious in front of a

camera. Since my two surgeries,

radiotherapy and chemotherapy,

I was less than confident in the

look of my body.

I was terrified at the thought of

being photographed, but putting my

reservations to one side, I applied

to be a part of this project. Everyone

made me feel so good about the way

I looked, and Sharon expertly guided

me through different poses, she really

knows her craft.

There was a sense of fun that led

to the most delightful experience.

It truly was a joyous occasion, and

I am so grateful to everyone who

supported me throughout. I felt

like a film star and loved every

minute of the ‘pampering’. I was so

nervous but also excited and more

emotional than I had expected.

I love how professional the final

pictures turned out.”

Each of the thirteen women who

applied to be a part of this calendar

opened up and shared their own

journey with the disease.

Miss June said: “I’m so proud of

myself for taking part and being Miss

June in the calendar.

These emotional stories along with

the images taken have been brought

together in a wall calendar that is

immersive, visual and functional.

This is not just a timepiece, but an

emotional collection of experiences.”

Photographer Sharon said: “I have

been humbled, saddened, excited

and overwhelmed in the process. It

consumed me for six months and

I’m proud of the final product, and

excited to be sharing it with everyone.

In many cases, these women were

very vulnerable and this took them

out of their comfort zone, and I am

proud of every one of them for taking

on the challenge.”

Many of the women who featured

in the calendar came together for the

first time at the pre-launch event, to

not only celebrate themselves, and

see their final images for the first

time, but to support each other in

their journey.

Each of the participants in the

calendar are at different stages of

their treatment or recovery, but Miss

September mentioned it was the

perfect completion of her journey.

With the money raised in the sale

of the calendars, Sharon hopes other

woman and men will benefit from

continued research and support for

those diagnosed with breast cancer.

The calendars will be on sale in

various locations in the Eastbourne/

Hastings area with 100% of the

proceeds going to the charity Breast

Cancer NOW. The calendars will be

on sale from now until the end of the

year at the locations below.

In person: Ooh How Lovely, Rye

(check opening hours); Smooth

Skin Beauty, Hastings (evenings

and weekends, call first); Christmas

Market, Manor Barn, Bexhill, 11am-

3pm, 10th November; Breast Friends

Forever Quiz Night, Sovereign

Habour Yacht Club, Eastbourne,

7pm, 15th November; Burlesque

Revolution, 16th November, 4pm

matinée and 7:30pm evening

performances at The Grove

Theatre, Eastbourne.

More information at

www.bodiblossom.com/sussexevents

or order online at www.

breastfriendsforever.co.uk with

local pick-up in Eastbourne or

delivery (additional fees apply).

2024 FESTIVE

MENU NOW

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The Bull Inn

To call, or reserve a table: 01424 424984

530 BEXHILL ROAD, ST LEONARDS ON SEA, TN38 8AY

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Facebook: @bullinnstleonards

Sunday Folk Session - 6th October & 3rd November from 5:30pm

Monday Charity Quiz - 14th & 28th from 8:00pm

Rock ‘n Roll Bingo - Sunday 13th from 6:00 pm

Other Events

Friday 11th - Charity Rock ‘n Roll Bingo in aid of Surviving

Christmas from 3:00 pm

Sunday 20th - King Blues Band from 4:30 pm

Our 2024 Festive menu will be served from

23rd November 2024 until 31st January 2025.

Copies available for collection now. Suitable for small and large

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Traditional freshly cooked ‘Pub Grub’ with many classic favourites,

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16 REGULARS

OCTOBER 2024


A MATTER OF TASTE

We send anonymous members of the team to check out local pubs, cafes and restaurants to give you an honest review.

These visits are not pre-arranged, and the venues do not know they are reviewing the food and drink!

PEBBLES — A STONE’S

THROW FROM THE BEACH

Having already experienced ‘Pebbles on

the Beach’ in Bexhill, its sister location,

Pebbles in Eastbourne has been on our

radar since it opened. While this one

isn’t beachfront, it goes by the simpler

name of ‘Pebbles’.

Still, the coastal theme remains strong.

I particularly appreciated the rustic

wooden panelling and the ropes and

knots hanging from the ceiling, which

maintains a relaxed seaside vibe.

With an open kitchen, diners can

see their food being prepared, offering

an engaging experience, the dynamic

between the waiting staff, management,

and kitchen team was seamless.

We watched as several dishes

were delivered to other tables before

ours arrived, all of which looked

incredibly appetising.

It was refreshing to find an extensive

selection of what I like to call “proper

seafood.” Of course, they offered

classic fish & chips and burgers,

but that’s where the conventional

menu items stopped.

We faced the challenge of choosing

from many dishes we hadn’t had in ages.

Nibbles ranged from Olives and Nuts to

Spiced Chickpeas.

Starters included options like Summer

Vegetable Tostada, Pork Shoulder Bao

Buns, and The Smoke Shed Mackerel.

As for mains, ‘The Shellfish’ selection

featured Rock Oysters, Char-Grilled

Tiger Prawns, Cracked Crab Claws, and

Dressed Devonshire Crab. ‘From the

Sea’ options were Pan-Fried Sea Bass,

Southern Fried Skate Wing, Whole Local

Plaice, while the ‘From the Land’ options

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included Roasted Butter Chicken Breast,

Pulled BBQ Mushroom Bao Buns, and a

Charred Watermelon Buddha Bowl.

After much deliberation, we decided on

Tempura Cajun Spiced Cockles (£4.50)

and Crispy Salt & Chilli Squid (£8.50).

Both were so delicious we ended up

sharing. We’ve only ever had cockles

the traditional way — in a paper cup

with vinegar at the seafront — so it was

a pleasant surprise to see them shelled

and coated in a light, crunchy batter.

For mains, the temptation of lobster

was too strong to resist, so we opted

for the Half Native Lobster with Fries &

Salad (£28) and the 10oz Char-Grilled

Ribeye Steak served with Chunky Chips,

Crispy Pickled Onion Rings, Watercress,

and Garlic Butter (£24).

The lobster came with all the necessary

tools to make it an enjoyable, hasslefree

experience. We had a laugh at the

array of utensils, including nutcrackers,

seafood forks and even a plastic apron!

Both dishes were superb. The lobster

served with a delicate Chilli & Garlic

Sauce, was perfectly tender. The steak

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I chose the Garlic Butter over the

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flavour of the steak.

Though we were too full for dessert,

we saw others enjoying Caramelised

White Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate

Torte, and a Selection of Sussex Cheeses

amongst other options, all of which

looked amazing.

Our entire meal came to £67, or just

£33.50 each — excellent value for such

an enjoyable dining experience.

It’s also worth noting that Pebbles

offers a well-thought-out children’s

menu for those up to eight years old,

which includes a drink and Vanilla Ice

Cream for £8.50. Kids can choose from

dishes such as Fish Goujons, Summer

Vegetable Pasta, and Cheeseburger.

Half native Lobster with

Chilli and Garlic Butter

10oz Ribeye Steak

Outside, a lovely veranda shaded by

an awning offers the perfect spot for

al fresco dining during the day. As we

left, the evening was setting in, and

the view of the restaurant through

its large windows was picturesque

— inside, diners enjoying their meals

under warm lighting, evoking the

perfect holiday scene.

Pebbles is centrally located in the

Enterprise Centre, with the convenience

of parking right next door. The

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away, and there’s also a taxi rank

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Tel: 01323 925178

www.pebblesrestaurants.co.uk

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Unit 1, Middlesex Road, Bexhill, TN40 1LP

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill OCTOBER 2024 REGULARS 17

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

A brooding calm in all the air,

A dreamy quiet everywhere...

A golden glow to light the day

That fades in purple mists away—

This soothing calm, this presence bright,

October’s sweet and mellow light.

Phoebe A. Holder, “A Song of October”

We are now fully embracing all the joys

that Autumn has to offer. This is a good

time to take stock of your garden or

plot. The summer months are still fresh

in our minds — what worked and what

really did not?

Sit down with a delicious mug of hot

chocolate and have a good look back at

the millions of photographs you took

both of your plot and of other gardens

you visited over the season.

What did you admire? Which plants

in your garden consistently brought joy

and, correspondingly, which ones did

you despair over? Slugs were voracious

this year and so we all now know which

plants they will avoid.

I am a big believer in using the right

plant for the right area of the garden.

That way, your plants will look happier,

and you won’t have to spend precious

time feeding, staking, watering and

sighing. I also love a woody plant — so

much interest and structure throughout

the year. So, let us consider a few

Photo: John Glover

together, particularly those that will

shine out in October.

The first thing is to work out the aspect

of the border in question. I always ask

this first and am consistently amazed by

the total lack of awareness demonstrated

by so many gardeners who never think

of which way their piece of land is facing.

Make a note of where the sun is, morning,

afternoon and evening. This will have a

huge impact on the type of plants you

can grow and will also dictate where you

want to sit at different times of the day —

yes, we should all be sitting and admiring

our gardens more.

If you have walls and fences, then the

south-facing ones will be the hottest and

north facing the coolest. There are plants

for all aspects and so do not despair. It is

fun to try something a bit different -how

about an Actinidia kolomikta for your

sunny wall? These have smart distinctive

foliage with pink and white splashes,

really colourful and more so in full sun.

For your shady cool wall create a real

autumnal talking point by clothing it with

Celastrus orbiculatus-the ornamental

bittersweet. This is a vigorous climber

with pleasingly rounded leaves that

turn a delightful buttery yellow in the

autumn. The green flowers don’t knock

you over initially, but they gradually

form into yellow fruits that split to reveal

scarlet seeds. Warning-you will need a

large wall or fence!

Consider what kind of soil you have

even just in terms of dry or moist. You

can always improve your soil by adding

organic matter.

For a dry sunny spot, consider a

magnificent Euphorbia wulfenii

‘John Tomlinson’ which is evergreen,

with beautiful glaucous leaves and

magnificent rounded heads bearing

bright yellow-green flowers. This is a

real statement plant. Dry shade can be

brightened up with the golden pillar that

is Taxus baccata ‘Standishii’. This has eyecatching

foliage, is slow growing and very

compact reaching only 1m in height.

We will now find a woody plant for

the shady damp garden. One of the

most perfectly named trees of all time

is the Liquidambar styraciflua and here

at Bates Green Garden we grow the

cultivar ‘Worplesdon’ which takes your

breath away at this time of the year. The

maple-like leaves turn rich shades of

orange and gold encapsulating the spirit

of autumn. Let’s pick some dogwood

for the sunny wet areas- Cornus alba

‘Kesselringii grows well for us here. It

starts by growing very upright dark red

shoots which then turn to a blackish/red

in the autumn looking utterly fabulous

with white snowdrops and golden

winter aconites.

Finally what style are you after? Do you

like formality and symmetry? Straight

lines and geometric shapes? Within

those boundaries of clipped topiary and

pleached trees, plant a cooling white

Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’

which is very popular and deservedly so.

It produces huge glowing white spherical

flower heads that contrast beautifully

with the dark green foliage.

Perhaps you hanker after a cottage

garden style? Voluptuous planting,

flowers, herbs and vegetables combined.

Roses suit this style, and my utter

favourite is an old variety called Rosa

odorata ‘Bengal Crimson’. I first met this

superb rose when working at the Chelsea

Physic Garden. Despite its specific epithet

this rose is unscented, but it makes up

for this by literally flowering all year

round. Truly. Even in the depths of

winter. I promise.

For a contemporary garden try the fish

pole bamboo Phyllostachys aurea but

Phyllostachys aureocaulis Photo: John Glover

beware of its spreading habit. If you can

mow around it regularly then that will

help or grow it in poor, dry soil. The bright

green canes really make a statement all

year round. Smart and stylish.

Whatever your garden aspect, soil

type, or garden style we all garden for

nature and so I end with a honeysuckle

which will suit all gardens and will

attract the often-overlooked moths

which are essential pollinators. One of

my favourites is Lonicera periclymenum

‘Graham Thomas’ which has a long

flowering season and is so very sweetly

scented. If you are very lucky, dormice

will feed on the nectar and have even

been known to build their nests from

the woven bark.

If you would like to see some of

these for yourselves, we are open

every Wednesday until October

23rd. The recent cool nights have led

me to anticipate a colourful autumn.

Enjoy the leaves.

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18 ADVERTORIAL

OCTOBER 2024


BEXHILL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND TOURISM UPDATE

CHAMBER ECHOES

Let’s make a BID for Bexhill

BUSINESSES in Bexhill are not

surprised that national crime

statistics indicate that shoplifting

has now de facto (according to The

Times) been de-criminalised.

Looters are seemingly being given

free rein to rob shops and hospitality

venues with impunity. A report from

the trade association Better Retailing

shows that in the year to March 2024,

Police across England and Wales only

issued 461 fixed penalty notices for

thefts valued under £100 compared

to 19,491 a decade earlier, despite

reported shoplifting offences of all

types reaching a massive 443,995.

That’s nearly half a million

offences being committed against

businesses. It is by far the most

serious crime impacting high streets

and is a significant contributor to

their rapid decline.

For many years, Bexhill Chamber

has advocated for our local

authorities to help businesses to

help themselves when it comes to

their security.

The police are overwhelmed and

do not have the resources to deal

with this “low level” criminal plague

that is eating away at our town. We

want to see committed support for

the Hastings and Rother Business

Crime Reduction Partnership which

brings together businesses and

other stakeholders to coordinate

and liaise with each other and the

Police through the Hastings Town

Centre management team, which

is paid for by the Hastings Business

Improvement District (BID).

Bexhill cannot participate fully

because we do not even have a town

centre strategy let alone a fully

functioning BID team. The BID

team, who are paid for from a 1-3%

precept on business rates, could

support the Police by collecting and

collating evidence, offering real-time

support for shops and bars through

an effective alert system and offering

help to victim businesses as well

as improving CCTV coverage and

coordination.

A BID in Bexhill would create an

effective mechanism for the business

community to mutually support

itself against criminality while

improving the town and making

us more attractive for investment.

The BID system is well established

across the country with over 335

towns and cities benefitting from it.

Hastings and Eastbourne already

have very successful BIDs, Rye has

been approved by Rother to start the

formation process and Hailsham is

in discussions with Wealden about

setting one up.

Bexhill was defined by the

Government as a “left behind” town,

without a Business Improvement

District. We will be left even further

behind and not only at the mercy of

the shoplifters but also the rot that

besets all too many coastal towns.

A BID is not the only answer to

bringing new energy and vibrancy

to our town, to bringing reduced

crime, more events, cleaner streets

and a friendlier environment but it is

definitely a starting point.

The great thing about a BID is that

it doesn’t cost a penny in council tax.

Once it is set up it is financed from a

small precept on business rates and

therefore it is the businesses in our

community who have a direct interest

in its success. Let’s make a BID for

a safer Bexhill.

Dedicate a star and remember

a loved one this December

LIGHTS of Love is a very special

event which is hosted by St

Michael’s Hospice at several

venues across Hastings and Rother

in December every year.

It is an opportunity for us to join

with our community,

to reflect and remember those

we miss, by dedicating a star to

a loved one and watching the

lights shine bright.

Cheryl, who attends Lights of

Love every year with her family,

says; “I’ve been attending Lights of

Love since 2017, the year we lost our

beautiful mum. It’s another way of

keeping her memory alive and it is comforting knowing

people are there for the same reason, it makes it feel

like a community.

Dad loved having his photo taken by the tree where

Mum’s star was placed. However, the part that really

hit me, in a good way, was chatting to people who we

may have never met if it wasn’t for Lights of Love. It has

become a family tradition, now sadly remembering my

dad too, who passed away in 2023.”

Evan, Cheryl’s son, said; “Lights of Love makes me

feel closer to loved ones and our family feels a little bit

more full again.”

Lights of Love in Bexhill on Sea takes place on Sunday 8th

December at St Peter’s Church, Church Street, at 3.15pm.

For full event details and to request a star dedication,

visit www.stmichaelshospice.com/lights

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill OCTOBER 2024 YOUR MP 19

NEWS FROM YOUR CONSERVATIVE MP

DR KIERAN MULLAN

AFTER the General Election in July,

I’m thrilled to be writing my first

monthly article for Bexhill News.

In an age where we can’t always

be sure what’s true online, it’s a

real privilege to contribute to our

local independent press and the

vital role it plays in keeping the

community informed.

First and foremost, I want to say a

huge thank you to everyone in Bexhill

for your incredible support during

the election campaign. It’s truly an

honour to be elected to represent the

constituents of Bexhill and Battle in

Parliament. It is a beautiful place to

live, work and raise a family and I can

understand why so many people want

to live here.

Since the election, I’ve been hitting

the ground running, meeting with

local groups and organisations —

working hard to bring the issues

that matter most to you to the fore. I

know how important it is for you to

see improvements in our roads, to

protect our waters, and to revitalise

our high streets. I’ve already met

with Rother District Council and

East Sussex County Council to build

productive working relationships

with them and to understand the

financial challenges they face.

I’ve also had my first meetings

with Southern Water and the

Environment Agency to discuss your

concerns about sewage outflows.

Meetings won’t solve everything,

they are just the first steps, but they’re

crucial ones, and I’m committed to

making real progress on the issues

you care about.

I’ve also been out visiting fantastic

local businesses. I dropped into the

Brickmakers Alehouse — recent

winner of a regional pub award.

Also the important cultural and

tourism venue for Rother, De La Warr

Pavilion — to hear about their plans

for securing the future of the building

and their partnership with the Heart

of Sidley following the award of

Levelling Up and Heritage Lottery

funding. I’m excited to be joining the

Bexhill Chamber of Commerce at

their breakfast this Friday.

In addition to working with local

councils and businesses, I’ve been

getting involved with some of the

incredible community-led projects

that are making a difference in Bexhill.

I recently met with volunteers from

Bexhill Heritage to learn more about

the amazing work they’re doing

to conserve and improve heritage

buildings and public spaces. I even

got to lend a hand in restoring the

Sainsbury’s Concrete Mural, a symbol

of our town’s rich history. I know it’s

making great progress since starting

in July and I can’t wait to return when

it’s fully restored! Bexhill Heritage

are doing such an important job in

preserving our local heritage, and I’m

keen to do whatever I can to support

them going forward.

Communities rely on people willing

to give up their time to get involved

in improving the local environment,

local charities, running sports and

recreational activities, providing

social events and supporting each

other. I think it’s really important to

champion local volunteers and I am

keen to get involved to support them.

If readers are involved in voluntary or

community groups which they’d like

me to be aware of or support, please

do get in touch.

One of the things I enjoy most about

being an MP is taking part in events

that bring communities together

to find common ground, and so

it was a privilege to represent my

constituents at the Battle of Britain

commemorations. There are many

examples of heroism and sacrifice

in our history, but this has always

been an example that I have found

particularly moving.

Of course, I am also your voice in

Parliament. Bexhill was promised

significant funding under the

previous Government’s levelling-up

plan, and I’m fully committed to

securing it from the new Government

to deliver real improvements that

would benefit both businesses and

residents. I’ll also be meeting with

Bexhill Town Council soon to discuss

how we can make that happen.

There’s so much more to do, and

I promise to work hard and keep

focused on your priorities, and

hopefully make Bexhill and Battle an

even better place to live and work.

Thank you again for your support,

and I’ll be keeping you updated on all

the progress we make.

Andy’s Army: A Tribute to Andy Holter and

a support for Mental Health Awareness

ANDY’S Army was established to

honour the memory of Andrew

J. Holter, a beloved friend and

community member who dedicated

his life to serving others.

The Facebook page was created

by Andy’s wife, Cherie, to provide a

safe and supportive space for anyone

facing mental health challenges.

Known by many as a compassionate

and selfless individual, Andy quietly

battled his own mental health

struggles, which tragically led to his

untimely death in June this year.

His loss was a profound shock to

the community, especially to those

unaware of his personal battles. His

story serves as a powerful reminder

of the need to address mental health

openly, particularly for men who

often feel pressured to stay silent.

A prominent figure across

East Sussex, particularly in

Eastbourne, he volunteered

with numerous organisations,

including the Eastbourne Street

Pastors, the Sunshine Church, St

John Ambulance, and the Police

Cadets. His efforts extended into

the local business community,

where he played an active role in the

Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce

Andy Holter hsosting a Mental Health seminar

and served as the President of the

Battle Chamber of Commerce,

breathing new life into the

organisation after years of inactivity.

Professionally, Andy worked as

a funeral director for Haine & Son

(CPJ Field), where his kindness and

empathy made a lasting impact

on grieving families. His gentle

approach and genuine care helped

guide people through some of the

most difficult times in their lives.

Beyond his formal roles, Andy’s

extensive network meant that

if someone needed help in any

situation, he usually knew someone

who could assist.

Despite being a pillar of support for

so many, Andy’s personal struggles

with mental health were known

to only a few. To many, he was the

person who always had the answers,

always fixed the problems. It was

this perception of strength that hid

his vulnerability, underscoring

the critical need to break the

stigma around mental health,

particularly for men.

Society often teaches men to be

strong, stoic, and to avoid showing

emotion. But this expectation is

costing lives, as more men die by

suicide each year, simply because

they feel they cannot ask for help.

Andy’s tragic death is a powerful

reminder that we need to open

conversations about mental health.

We must recognise that everyone,

regardless of gender, can face

mental health challenges, and

that seeking support is a sign of

strength, not weakness.

Andy’s Army is dedicated to

keeping Andy’s memory alive while

raising awareness about mental

health. Through thoughtful and

inspiring posts, the page aims

to provide a space for reflection

and empowerment. It serves as

a reminder that mental health is

something we all need to take care of,

and that there is help available.

As part of this mission, Andy’s

Army will host a Coffee Morning

in honour of World Mental Health

Day on Thursday, 10 October at 10

a.m. at Victoria Baptist Church,

Eldon Road, Eastbourne. Everyone

is welcome to join for a cuppa and a

cake, and to share in the conversation

about mental health.

If you or someone you know is

struggling with mental health,

remember that there are professional

services available to listen and

provide support. Some UK-based

resources include:

• Mind: Information, advice, and

advocacy for mental health.

mind.org.uk | 0300 123 3393

• Samaritans: Free, 24/7

emotional support.

samaritans.org | 116 123 (UK & ROI)

• CALM (Campaign Against Living

Miserably): Helpline and webchat

aimed at preventing male suicide.

thecalmzone.net | 0800 58 58 58

• Shout: A 24/7 text service offering

confidential support.

giveusashout.org |

Text SHOUT to 85258

• Rethink Mental Illness: Practical

advice and services for those

affected by mental illness.

rethink.org | 0300 5000 927

• YoungMinds: Supporting

the mental health of children

and young people.

youngminds.org.uk | 0808 802 5544

• SANE: Support and resources

for people aged 16+ affected by

mental illness.

sane.org.uk | 0300 304 7000

• PAPYRUS: Focused on

preventing young suicide.

papyrus-uk.org | 0800 068 4141

Let Andy’s memory be a driving

force in breaking down barriers and

encouraging open conversations

about mental health. Together, we

can help others who are struggling,

just as Andy always did.

20 ADVERTORIAL

OCTOBER 2024


BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN

COUNCIL UPDATE

facilities, ensuring they meet

modern standards for cleanliness,

accessibility, and convenience. This

project will greatly improve one of the

town’s central spaces and contribute

to Bexhill-on-Sea’s reputation as

a well-maintained and visitorfriendly

destination.

BEXHILL TOWN PRIDE

REALLY RINGS TRUE!

SATURDAY, 7th of September

2024, was a day of great pride for

Bexhill-on-Sea as the Town Crier,

Jon, made his journey 192 miles

north to Sleaford, Lincolnshire,

to compete in the prestigious

National Town Crier Competition.

Town criers from across the country

gathered, dressed in their traditional

regalia to compete against one

another. It was a colourful display of

this historic tradition, and Jon was

ready to make Bexhill-on-Sea proud.

In the competition, each town crier

was assigned two tasks: the first was

to deliver a cry about the town they

represent, and the second was to

deliver a cry about a famous actor

or actress. Jon was assigned the

legendary Sir Anthony Hopkins for

his tribute, which he delivered with

great presence. His cry about Bexhillon-Sea,

filled with pride and passion,

reflected the rich heritage and vibrant

community spirit of our seaside town.

After a tremendous effort,

Jon’s performance earned him

second place in the competition, a

remarkable achievement given the

calibre of town criers in attendance.

But that wasn’t all – Jon also received

the People’s Champion Award, a

special recognition from the judges,

awarded for his overall performance

and connection with the public.

This accolade is a testament to Jon’s

charisma, professionalism and his

ability to represent Bexhill-on-Sea

with distinction.

Jon’s success in Sleaford was a great

victory for the town, but his efforts

are just one example of the exciting

and important work happening

across Bexhill-on-Sea in 2024.

A BUSY SUMMER

FOR BEXHILL-ON-SEA

TOWN COUNCIL

WHILE Jon was representing

Bexhill-on-Sea on a national stage,

the town council has been busy

with a variety of projects aimed at

improving the town and enhancing

quality of life for its residents.

This summer has been an

exceptionally active one for the

council, with the Mayor and Deputy

Mayor attending numerous local

events to promote civic pride and

community engagement.

Beyond civic endeavours, the town

council is also pushing forward

with several important projects that

will have a lasting impact on the

community. One ongoing initiative

is a collaboration with W.Ave Arts to

revitalise six of the town’s bus stops

and shelters with vibrant artwork.

This project aims not only to

beautify public spaces but also to

reduce the likelihood of vandalism

by fostering a sense of pride in the

community. By engaging local artists

and involving the community, these

public artworks will add colour and

creativity to Bexhill-on-Sea’s streets,

making them more inviting for

residents and visitors alike.

INFRASTRUCTURE

IMPROVEMENTS: FOCUS

ON DEVONSHIRE SQUARE

ANOTHER key initiative underway

is the planned refurbishment of

the public toilets in Devonshire

Square. Public amenities are a vital

part of maintaining a welcoming

and functional town, and Bexhillon-Sea

is no exception.

The council is in the process of

obtaining quotes to refit these

SUPPORTING LOCAL

PROJECTS: FINANCIAL

GRANTS AVAILABLE

SEPTEMBER marks a significant

month in the town’s financial

calendar, as the Finance and

Audit Committee prepares to

approve grants of up to £10,000

for local projects. These grants

provide crucial support for

community initiatives, charitable

organizations, and local projects

that help enhance the town’s

cultural and social landscape.

St Peter’s Community Centre, one

recent grant recipient, used their

grant to install new lights to enhance

accessibility and aesthetics within

their hall. This drastically improves

the space for residents to enjoy.

Here is what they had to say: ‘Our

new lights have been installed in the

community centre and are making a

tremendous difference. Please share

our thanks to the Town Council.’

For those who have ideas or

initiatives that could benefit from

this funding, the town council’s

website offers details on how to apply

for grants. It’s a great opportunity

for residents and organizations

to get involved and contribute

to the ongoing improvement of

Bexhill-on-Sea.

MORE IMPROVEMENTS

AT PEBSHAM

COMMUNITY CENTRE

THE Pebsham Community Centre

is set to benefit from much-needed

toilet improvements thanks to

funding from the town council.

After listening to feedback from

hall users and trustees at the centre,

the council approved a project to

install new, modern toilet facilities

in the centre. This initiative aims to

enhance the comfort and accessibility

of the community hub, making it

more welcoming for local events,

gatherings, and activities.

Council representatives have

emphasised their commitment to

investing in local infrastructure

that improves the quality of life for

residents. Construction is expected to

begin soon, with minimal disruption

to the centre’s regular activities.

Pebsham Ward Councillor Charlie

Rustem said: “I’m thrilled to see how

much progress has been made with

the new disabled toilet at Pebsham

Community Hub, which reflects our

ongoing commitment to to inclusivity

and accessibility”.

Cllr Huseyin El said:, “This

improvement will make a significant

difference to the users of Pebsham

Community Hub and the general

public, especially when the new allinclusive

playground is installed on

Pebsham Recreation Ground. Myself

and the council are proud to invest

Bexhill-on-Sea Town COUNCIL

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

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

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

in Pebsham and take this important

step towards a more accessible

environment for all”

LOOKING AHEAD: EVENTS

AND REMEMBRANCE

AS summer gives way to autumn,

Bexhill-on-Sea is also preparing

for its annual Remembrance

Day commemoration, where

the community comes together

to honour and remember those

who have served in the armed

forces. The town council is already

working on preparations for this

important event, ensuring it is

a fitting and respectful tribute

to those who have sacrificed for

their country.

BEXHILL CENTRAL PARADE

leaves Devonshire Square at 10.20am

with the service taking place at the

war memorial at 10:40am followed by

the 11:00 silence.

LITTLE COMMON PARADE church

service will be held at St Marks from

9:45am, the parade will leave from

the church car park 10:50am and

wreath laying will take place at the

war memorial after the 11:00 silence.

If you would like to lay a wreath at

either service please get in touch

info@bexhilltowncouncil.gov.uk


Last seagoing

passenger-carrying

paddle steamer

visits Eastbourne

PASSENGERS boarded a unique

maritime relic docked at

Eastbourne Pier recently as The

Waverley visited the town’s shore.

Built in 1947 by A. & J. Inglis of

Glasgow, Scotland, The Waverley

was originally commissioned to

replace an earlier vessel of the

same name lost during World War

II. Initially, she served as a regular

passenger ferry on the Firth of Clyde,

operating under the ownership

of the London and North Eastern

Railway. Her primary function was

to transport holidaymakers between

Scottish coastal towns, a role she

fulfilled until 1973.

The ship’s design features a

traditional paddle-wheel propulsion

system, which remains one of the

last of its kind in active service. Her

distinctive red, white, and black

funnel, along with her elegantly

varnished wood interior and open

decks, offer a nostalgic glimpse into

post-war maritime travel. Waverley is

powered by a triple-expansion steam

engine, visible to passengers through

viewing galleries, which adds to

the ship’s appeal.

Since her preservation, Waverley

has operated as a cruise ship, taking

passengers on scenic trips around

the British coastline, including the

Thames, the Isle of Wight, and the

Western Isles of Scotland.

During her visit to Eastbourne

Pier, passengers had the unique

opportunity to embark on a cruise

along the picturesque coastline,

including a trip around the iconic

Beachy Head. The majestic

chalk cliffs of Beachy Head, one

of Britain’s most recognisable

landmarks, provided a stunning

backdrop as Waverley glided through

the waters. Passengers enjoyed

panoramic views of the coastline,

taking in the dramatic scenery that

has inspired artists, writers, and

photographers for centuries.

In the evening, Waverley continued

her voyage to Shoreham, giving

passengers another chance to

experience the charm of a bygone

era. These tours were not only a

nostalgic experience, but also offered

a rare opportunity to see the British

coastline from a unique perspective.

On her various tours, Waverley often

visits other historic piers and ports,

such as Southend, Whitstable, and

Bournemouth, offering day trips and

special-themed cruises that attract

thousands of visitors each year.

Despite facing financial challenges,

including a major boiler replacement

in 2020 that temporarily grounded

her, Waverley has remained afloat

thanks to the dedication of her

crew, volunteers, and the support

of enthusiasts from around the

world. Each year, her cruises offer

a unique blend of history, nostalgia,

and scenic beauty, ensuring that

Waverley continues to be a beloved

symbol of Britain’s maritime

heritage. Her visits to towns like

Eastbourne not only connect people

to the past but also help preserve the

legacy of steam-powered travel for

future generations.

ON YOUR BIKE with Ian Hollidge

FIND YOUR FIT: THE PERFECT BIKE FOR YOU

You don’t need to be fit to cycle, but

you do need a bicycle fit for you. Size

matters, and your machine needs to fit

your personal dimensions before riding

off. Would a man with a 34-inch waist

buy size 46, or if a 29-inch leg buy

a 34-inch leg?

Would ladies buy a size 14 dress

if it was not their size? Frankly, we

wouldn’t as not only would we look odd,

but our clothing wouldn’t do what it was

intended to do.

Bicycles need to be fit for purpose,

and you need to decide what you will

use your bicycle for and, if it fits your

budget, can you afford it? Fortunately,

there are many options.

Which type will best suit you

best — mountain, road, uni, tricycle,

penny farthing, touring, racing,

off-road, electric, recumbent, hybrid,

commuter, BMX or one of many other

different options.

Alternatively, you could have more

than one few have only one pair of

trousers or one dress?

If you want to join a club and go on

long runs for fitness and fun, you may

choose a road bike. If you want to travel

to work and social activities, your choice

could be a sturdier mountain or folding

bike making storage easier.

Most important is the frame size,

which is the distance from the centre

of the bottom bracket axle to the

top of the seat lug, which is vital for

enjoyable cycling.

Like everything else in life, there are

variations and a mountain bike frame

size which fits may not be the same as

your road bike. It’s always best to go to a

bike shop specialist for expert advice.

To know your frame size, straddle the

bike with your feet on the ground, and

there should be a one-inch clearance.

Once you have the right frame, normally,

everything else will be in proportion

and adjustable.

The saddle height is the first part

of setting up your bike. The aim is to

achieve a position where the right leg

is close to full extension with your left

leg toes on the floor and arms resting

on handlebars.

Once you are happy with the height,

then adjust the forward and back

position this is really for your comfort

when riding and a personal choice.

However, if you want to get technical,

the most effective angle is the hinge of

the forward knee joint, which should be

directly over the centre pedal axis. You

know when someone looks smart in

their clothes and it’s no different being

smart riding a bike.

Being smart doesn’t mean you have

to dress up in lycra; however, you

need your clothing to fit you and be

comfortable. Although tight-fitting

clothing, staying in place as you move is

great it’s not compulsory.

However, it is always advisable to

wear something bright and not just at

night. Why would you wear hedgerow

green or tarmac grey, blending in with

the surroundings?

It pays to be seen and avoid a SMIDSY

(Sorry Mate, I Didn’t See You) incident.

Hi-Vis is the best advice, and most cycle

clubs encourage this good practice.

Reach out to your local cycle clubs for

advice, not just on the best bike to buy

but what to wear so your bike fits you

and you fit your clothing choice.

Enjoy the ride.

22 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Airfield Fly-In event raises

thousands for Air Ambulance

DEANLAND Airfield recently hosted

its highly successful annual Charity

Fly-In, which welcomed aviation

enthusiasts from across the region.

More than seventy aircraft,

including three helicopters, flew

in from all corners of the South

to support the cause, with more

than 275 barbecue lunches served

alongside a tempting selection of

homemade cakes.

The event brought the community

together for a day of fun and

fundraising, with all proceeds going

toward the lifesaving efforts of the

local Air Ambulance service, whose

team was also in attendance to

engage with visitors.

In excess of £4,200 was raised for

the Kent, Surrey, and Sussex Air

Ambulance during the event.

The success of the event was due to

the hard work of Deanland Airfield’s

residents, who ensured everything

ran smoothly and made the day

enjoyable for all involved.

Organisers have extended their

sincere gratitude to the local

community for their ongoing

support, which played a key role in

the event’s achievements.

A spokesperson said: “Deanland

Airfield looks forward to building

on this success in future Fly-Ins

to support important causes in

the community.”


Campaign to learn lifesaving techniques

BY SUE HAMPSHIRE,

ASSOCIATE MEDICAL

DIRECTOR, ST JOHN

AMBULANCE

IN this article, we are focusing a

campaign aiming to teach 50,000

people vital lifesaving skills. What

can we do if called upon to help in

an emergency to ensure the best

chance of the person surviving?

St John Ambulance advocates that

everyone should know the skills vital

to try to save a life. Let’s go through

each of these in turn so you too

can have awareness of what to do

and know where you can get more

information and help.

CARDIOPULMONARY

RESUSCITATION (CPR) AND

USING A DEFIBRILLATOR

If someone suffers a cardiac

arrest, they will not be breathing

normally and their heart stops. With

no help, they are unlikely to survive,

but by alerting the emergency

services and starting CPR we can

increase their chances.

If someone collapses and is not

breathing normally, call 999 and

then start chest compressions. Kneel

beside them, placing your hands one

on top of the other in the centre of

their chest, and with your shoulders

directly over their body push down

PUZZLES

SPONSORED BY

hard and fast, letting your hands

come up fully between compressions.

If trained, give two rescue breaths

after every 30 compressions. The

call handler will tell you what to do

and tell anyone with you to fetch a

nearby available defibrillator. Once

the defibrillator arrives, turn it on and

follow the instructions making sure

chest compressions continue.

BLEEDING AND

CATASTROPHIC

HAEMORRHAGE

The priority is to stop the bleeding.

Make sure the area is safe for

you, and if you have them, put on

first-aid gloves.

Cover and raise the wound with

a clean non-fluffy cloth, or a sterile

dressing and apply direct pressure

to the wound. If there is an object in

the wound, don’t remove it but apply

pressure each side of the object to

push the edges together. Call the

emergency services for advice while

maintaining pressure.

The loss of blood may cause the

person to develop shock, so, if

possible, lie them down, raising and

supporting their legs, and loosen

tight clothing.

A cover over them will help. If the

bleeding is not controlled and comes

through the dressing, remove it,

and reapply pressure using a new

pad. If the injury is very severe, the

call handler may advise on how to

improvise a tourniquet.

CHOKING

Choking means the airway is partly

or completely blocked, often by food.

Ask if they are choking, and advise

them to try to cough, but if they can’t,

and are unable to speak and are very

distressed, you will have to help them.

WORDSEARCH – SHOPPING

Give the person up to five sharp

back blows, between the shoulder

blades. You need to support them to

lean forwards while you give these

and check after each blow to see if

anything has come out.

If five back blows don’t work, give

up to five abdominal thrusts. To do

this, stand behind them, put your

arms around their waist putting a

clenched fist midway between the

belly button and the bottom of their

CROSSWORD

chest. Grasp this hand with your

other hand and pull inwards and

upwards. Check between each thrust

to see if it has worked.

Alternate back blows and

abdominal thrusts calling 999

if the blockage does not clear.

Be aware they may become

unresponsive and need CPR.

We hope that you will never need to

use these skills, but it is much better

to be prepared.

SUDOKU

Discount

Buy

Clothes

Shops

Money

Food

Trolley

Basket

Cashier

Receipt

ANSWERS

ACROSS

7 Pleasant feature (7)

8 A long time (2,3)

10 Observes (5,2)

12 Like a promenade

on a wet day (5)

16 “Eh?” (4)

19 Alaska’s - - - Islands (8)

20 One who quarrels noisily (8)

21 Ice melter (4)

24 Fictions (5)

27 Does very well (7)

29 Enter (3,2)

30 Embassy specialist (7)

DOWN

1 Accountant’s concern (3,3)

2 “Romeo and

Juliet” setting (6)

3 “Driving --- Daisy” (4)

4 Blue-green (4)

5 Uncovered (4)

6 Repudiate (4)

9 Smartphone download (3)

11 Mouthpiece of the gods,

in mythology (6)

13 Fingerless gloves (5)

14 Dragnet (5)

15 Stirring up hatred for a

serious shortage (6)

17 Hasten (5)

18 In old money, a

florin to a quid (5)

22 It’s easy to give but

hard to take (6)

23 Predilections (6)

24 Talk-show clip-on (4)

25 Small dog breed (3)

26 Chinese dynasty at the time

of the Norman Conquest (4)

27 Easing of tensions (4)

28 Memorization

by repetition (4)

24 NEWS

OCTOBER 2024


Making a

difference

every day

Bexhill to host

Instrumentalist of the

World launch competition

Covering Bexhill and Eastbourne

l Companionship l Personal Care Assistance

l Medication Support l Hospital to Home

l Specialist Dementia Care

l Outings and Appointments

Telephone: 01323 414 658

rightathome.co.uk/eastbourne-and-bexhill

BBC Radio 3 Instrumentalist of the World,

the UK’s inaugural international classical

music competition will launch the 2025

competition with a spectacular concert

showcasing some of the world’s finest

classical instrumentalists.

Accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra

and each performing a concerto, three of the

world’s most exciting artists will perform in

a concert on 12th October at the De La Warr

Pavilion, marking the launch of the 2025

Instrumentalist of the World Competition

and will welcome competitors from around

the world, to compete for a £10,000 prize

and concert engagements in the UK and

across Europe.

Amy Dickson is a twice

Grammy nominated

and Classic BRIT winner

and was named the Young

Australian of the Year

in 2016. Amy has been

acknowledged by BBC

Music Magazine as one

of the world’s best classical saxophonists of

all time, has been an exclusive Sony Music

recording artist since 2007 and has since

recorded eight solo albums and many singles.

As a soloist, she has performed with

orchestras worldwide and recorded with the

Philharmonia Orchestra, Aurora Orchestra,

Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide

Symphony Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra,

Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Royal

Scottish National Orchestra and the Royal

Philharmonic Orchestra.

Amy has already made a substantial

contribution to the legacy of the instrument’s

concerto, chamber and solo repertoire,

continuing to work closely with many living

composers, including Peter Sculthorpe, Huw

Watkins, Steve Martland, Nigel Hess, Ross

Edwards, Richard Blackford, Kenneth Fuchs,

Stuart Greenbaum, Elena Kats-Chernin, Ivan

Moody, Tarik O’Regan, Chris Rogerson, Toby

Young, Alexis Ffrench, Jessica Wells, Carl Davis,

Graham Fitkin, Graham Koehne, Martin Butler

and Brett Dean.

Plínio Fernandes is

an exclusive Decca Gold

recording artist from São

Paulo, Brazil and released his

debut album in 2022 which hit

Number One on the Billboard

Traditional Classical Albums

Chart. Plínio was named on Forbes Brazil’s

Under 30 list and as a Rising Star by Classic FM.

Recent highlights include a UK tour with

Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a sold-out performance

at London’s Wigmore Hall and performances

with Lang Lang. He will be performing this

summer at the BBC Proms and Lucerne Festival.

Laure Chan is an awardwinning

British Franco-

Chinese violinist recently

hailed by BBC Music Magazine

as a rising star and appeared

on Classic FM’s 30 Under

30 list in 2024.

Laure has performed in world-class concert

venues throughout the UK, Europe, Asia

and America such as the Royal Albert Hall,

Philharmonie de Paris, Teatro del Maggio

Musicale Fiorentino, Wiener Konzerthaus,

Concertgebouw, Elbphilharmonie, Herodes

Atticus, Shanghai Oriental Arts Centre and

the Lincoln Center. In December 2023,

Laure made her solo debut at Carnegie Hall’s

Weill Recital Hall.

Founder of the Instrumentalist of the World

Competition and Charity Ian Roberts is a

veteran classical music competition, festival

producer and director having led the Hastings

International Piano Concerto Competition

charity for several years and has worked with

some of the world’s most respected music

artists, ensembles, festivals and record labels.

The launch concert on 12 October 2024 will

be presented by popular BBC Radio 3 and BBC

TV Presenter Linton Wesley Stephens and the

programme will include a concerto performed

by each artist accompanied by the BBC Concert

Orchestra and conducted by the orchestra’s

Chief Conductor Anna-Maria Helsing.

Visit the De La Warr Pavilion website or box

office for tickets.

PUBLIC NOTICE

ROTHER DISTRICT COUNCIL PREMISES LICENCE APPLICATION

AURELIA SHEPHERD

of

FLAT 2 - ST LEONARD’S ROAD, BEXHILL ON SEA, TN401JB

is applying for a premises license to sell alcohol and beverages at 22a Wilton Road, BEXHILL

on Sea, TN401HX between the hours of 10am and 6pm Monday to Thursday and 10am - 8pm

Friday and Saturday.

Any person wishing to make representations to this application may do so by writing to

Licensing Officer, Rother DC, Town Hall, BEXHILL on Sea, East Sussex, TN39 3JX or email

licensing@rother.gov.uk not later than October 29 2024. Representations received after this

date cannot be considered.

A copy of this application can be viewed at Rother DC, Town Hall, Town Hall Square, BEXHILL

on Sea, East Sussex, TN39 3JX during office hours or www.Rother.gov.uk

It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with this

application, the maximum fine on summary of conviction is unlimited.

PUBLISHED ON 2ND OCTOBER 2024

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/bexhill OCTOBER 2024 MOTORING 25

Kia’s Super-Niro doesn’t need

a cape to prove its worth

BY PAUL GIBSON

IT seems as if we’re not going

to have much choice when it

comes to the future of motoring

than choose electric — actually,

finding a manufacturer that sells

petrol or diesel cars are getting

consistently fewer.

Electric vehicles have come an

extremely long way in the last decade,

with an estimated 414,000 EV sales

this year alone.

I’ve spent a lot of time in a variety

of EVs, from one of the first to hit the

consumer market (Tesla) to the large,

super-luxury vehicles produced by

large German brands.

Even in the past couple of years, the

public charging infrastructure has

expanded rapidly, and it’s become

extremely simple to ‘tap and go’ when

charging an EV away from home.

I’m not going to lie; I had a nightmare

with broken charging points when I

drove the new Kia EV9 at the start of

the year from Sussex to Milton Keynes,

but I’m willing to put all that behind

me to test the Kia E-Niro.

The Niro was launched in 2018

with a Hybrid drivetrain, soon to

be followed by a plug-in hybrid

and an all-electric model named

the E-Niro. It’s received numerous

awards, with 80,000 units sold across

the globe in 2023.

The second generation of the E-Niro

we tested boasts a 285-mile range of

a full charge, which for the first time,

is a believable, real-life figure, unlike

some of the other EVs I’ve driven over

the years. It’s a vehicle that actually

reduces ‘range anxiety’ as it’s soon

obvious that the remaining battery

level remains consistent and relative

to your manner of driving.

We were sent a vehicle with a top-ofthe-range

trim level (4) and housing a

64.8kWh battery, which can receive a

decent charge in around 45 minutes

from a fast charger. Unfortunately, I

don’t have the privilege of a dedicated

car charger at home, so I can only

use a traditional 230v charge via a

three-pin plug or use the fast charger

we’re seeing popping up at most of

the local fuel stations.

Kia didn’t supply a three-pin

adapter with this test vehicle, so I

was forced to use the fast chargers

which certainly aren’t cheap. So, it’s

always best to trickle charge from

home overnight which can lead

to huge cost savings, especially if

you’re lucky enough to have solar

panels on your home.

The E-Niro has an SUV-style driving

position and certainly has the interior

space of one. Due to there being no

drivetrain going through the centre

of the car, passengers get tonnes

of space throughout the cabin with

numerous storage bins.

At 4,420mm long, 1,825mm wide

and 1,570mm high, the Niro has been

designed to offer maximum interior

space while remaining a ‘compact’

SUV. The wheelbase of 2,720mm

allows enhanced interior space,

offering improved comfort and cargo

space over the previous generation,

according to Kia.

Premium-effect recycled materials

cover the cabin to compliment the

interior space and underline Niro’s

sustainable credentials. The dash

and driver controls feature minimal

clutter and smooth lines to ensure

a distraction-free yet intuitive

user experience.

We took the chance to test the boot

space in the E-Niro with a number

of newspaper deliveries around

the area. There’s a huge amount of

space, easily squeezing in 20 bundles,

which obviously adds a lot of weight

to the vehicle, but that had no real

effect on the range over a distance

that we could tell.

Overall, we had a great seven days

in the E-Niro, and it proved to be

an excellent all-rounder, as well

as a practical and comfortable EV.

Although I’m a huge Kia fan, this

car wouldn’t be for me — it’s just a

bit too ‘normal’.

My philosophy is that I always need

to drive a car that makes you look

back at it when you’ve got out. The

E-Niro doesn’t make me look back

over my shoulder in admiration.

However, the upcoming EV3, which

is due to hit the roads in the very near

future, excites me a lot.

The baby EV9 lookalike ticks most

boxes for me as I start to look to go

electric, probably next year. Watch

this space as we get to take an early

peek at the EV3 later this month.

26 SPORT

OCTOBER 2024


BRT’s Cotter and Graham

conquer London Classics

Rye Ancient 15K & 30K Trail Event . Zak Overfield, Geoff Tondeur, Amanda Tondeur and Catherine Crombie

BY JACKIE KNIGHT

LORNA Cotter and James Graham

both conquered the London Classics

after completing the Swim Serpentine

two-mile swim.

The Bexhill Runners and Triathletes

members took on the fabled sporting

challenge of the three toughest London

endurance events which also includes the

London Marathon and The Ride London

100-mile cycling sportive.

They both received a much-coveted

London Classics medal engraved with

the Latin words ‘Et ego ‘Londinium vici’,

meaning ‘I too have conquered London’ and

will be listed in the London Classics Hall

of Fame. After extensive swimming in the

cold waters of the Serpentine Lake in Hyde

Park, Cotter finished in 1:44:54 and Graham

clocked 01:37:46.

There was another achievement for

Andrea Harwood as she completed the fierce

Dragon’s Back Race, which is considered

the toughest

legendary

mountain

race in the world.

It is held over six

day and stretches

380km from the

north coast of

Wales to Cardiff

in the south, over

Lorna Cotter, Classics, 2024

all the highest

peaks, through

Snowdonia,

the Cambrian

mountains, the

Elan Valley and the

Brecon Beacons. It

is not a race for

the faint hearted

with an average

James Graham

of 70 kms each

day and daily ascent of 2,900m. This did not

deter Harwood, who battled rain, thunder

and mist for an unforgettable experience.

Harwood slayed the Dragon as she

brought a trophy home.

Antonio Serrano showed great resilience

to take on the Bewl Water Swimrun. In

challenging heavy rain, Serrano clocked

01:35:25 alternating between running on

an undulating course and swimming in the

reservoir in the 10km event.

The Historic BBB10k was another great

event this year where BRT took to the

historic streets of Battle with a finish at

Battle Abbey. Nigel Jewell smashed a time

of 41mins 20sec, Lottie Crathern 48:11,

Carole Crathern 49:47, Geoff Tondeur 49:55,

Amanda Tondeur 58:10, Stuart Robinson

and Malcolm Jones both 01:04:19 and John

Syddall 01:07:32. Fantastic results and PB’s.

Several BRT runners entered the Rye

Ancient Trails and Jamie Tittman clocked

an amazing time of 02:21:05 with Peter

Newstead not far behind on 02:49:28.

Duncan Cruttenden (03:00:12), Catherine

Crombie (03:45:25), Malcolm Jones

(04:30:21), Geoff Tondeur (03:11:18),

Amanada Tondeur (03:45:28) and Zak

Overfield (03:30:19) all finished 30km. They

were joined by 15km competitors Simon

Carey (01:42:06), Ian Paine (01:33:28),

Jeremy Sankey (01:26:09) and Neil

Smith (1:22:06).

The Bates Green Gallop has become a

favourite for BRT runners who like a run

with a difference. Some sections can be

very uneven, a mixture of grass, mud,

woodland, concrete and loose chippings.

Starting at Bates Green Farm in Arlington,

the challenge of completing as many 3.5-

mile trail loops as you wish in a time limit

of six hours was entered by Jackie Knight,

who finished on four and Malcom Jones,

who stopped on five. Both cannot wait to

do it all again.

Hastings & Bexhill

bring the 100 up

MATCH REPORT

AND PHOTO BY

PETER KNIGHT

HASTINGS and

Bexhill kicked off

their 100th season

with a convincing

31-16 win against

the newly promoted

Beckenham II XV.

H&B are holding a

number of celebratory

events throughout the season and started the day with

a pre- match lunch. The occasion was attended by

local MPs, the Mayor of Hastings, the Ark Alexandra

Academy principal, four Presidents of Sussex RFU

and club sponsors.

New coaches Bruce Steadman and Ben Petty selected

a team based on last year’s squad but included two new

faces, Jackson Coulter at full-back and Vinnie Harrison

in the pack. Both are products of the club’s youth

development programme.

Hastings opened the scoring in the Counties 3 Kent

League clash with an unconverted try from Coulter.

The H&B forwards dominated the play and fed the

back line. The home side increased the pressure on

the visitors’ defence and centre Jake Stinson benefited

from a great break by Tom Hirst to touch down, Hirst

converted to make the score 12-0.

But Beckenham came back with a converted

try and two well-taken penalties to lead by one

point at half-time.

Barring a penalty for Becks the second half was all

about H&B, they dominated every set-piece and built

up a clear lead. Harrison scored a good try to restore

the advantage while hooker Josh Clarke crashed over

the line for the bonus-point try converted by Coulter.

Hirst scored the try of the game under the posts with

an incisive run through the visitors defence and

Coulter added the extras to complete the scoring.

The whole H&B squad put in a great performance.

Inspired by captain Harry Walker, they beat a strong

London club where the 1st XV play in a league five

levels above Hastings.

H &B followed up the opening win with a 27-7 romp

at New Ash Green (Sept 14) but Tonbridge Juddians

II proved too strong in the next road trip, triumphing

29-3 as Hirst replied with a penalty (Sept 21).

Jay gets name on cup at Polegrove BC finals

POLEGROVE Bowls Club held their

finals and there is a new name on the

cup in the men’s singles.

In difficult rainy conditions,

Rachel Mackriell comfortably

beat Bjorg Simpson to be crowned

ladies club champion.

The men’s competition was a closer

game, Kieran Jay ran out a 21-13

winner against Mark Simmons to take

the trophy for the first time.

Chris Talbot won three of the five

finals he played. Terry Adams and

Mackriell each won three finals.

Other results - Longdon: P Hill beat T

Rawles 21-7; Whittaker: T Adams beat

D Simpson 21-3; 100up: R Mackriell

102 - B Simpson 68, C Talbot 104 - 86

M Simmons; 2 Woods: A Watt 16-5 L

Crone, M Simmons 15-8 K Jay; Vet 2

woods: L Crone 16 - 7 M Adcock.

Bowls finalist Mark

Simmons and Kieran Jay

Mixed Singles: R Mackriell 21 - 13

T Adams; Mixed Pairs: T Adams & P

Hill 10-9 R & J Wood; Australian Pairs:

J Wood & S Merrett 16 - 15 C Talbot &

R Boutle; Veteran Pairs: C Talbot & R

Boutle 11 - 10 W Gale & A Aylmer.

Drawn Pairs: D Hodd & S Cant 13-12

S Cooper & D Merrett, C Talbot & G

Stone 10-9 C Hearsum & M Quilty;

Ladies Pairs: D Hodd & L Jamison 17 - 9

R Wood & P Hill; Men’s Pairs: T Adams

& S Merrett 16-15 C Jeffrey & W Gale.

The Polegrove ladies put in some

good performances despite extremely

tough draws at Leamington in the

National finals.

Rachel Mackriell reached two

semi-finals and a quarter-final - a

fantastic achievement.

She had a great run in the two

woods competition, putting two

internationals out and losing

to the eventual winner in the

quarter-final. She also reached the

senior singles semi.

She reached the Senior Fours semi

along with Margaret Adcock, Nina

Allbut and Denise Hodd. They put out

Northumberland, Gloucestershire and

Hampshire but lost on an extra end to

Warwickshire in the semi-final.

Rachel, Nina and Denise lost to world

bowls champion Katherine Rednall’s

team in the Triples and, along with

Lyndsey Jamison, beat Hampshire

in the first round of the Fours before

losing to Devon.

Denise teamed up with Rosamund

Wood in the Pairs and put up a good

fight against international Sian

Honnor and partner, losing 16-19

The ladies have had an excellent

season, winning six County titles and

the Hastings and Bexhill league.

Hastings Open Bowls Tournament

was first staged in 1911 and is

still going strong.

The latest event, under new

management, took place at White

Rock Gardens, Hastings, and was an

outstanding success.

Results - Open Triples winners

(Terry Barnes, Ken Ferguson, Phil

Baker) White Rock. Runners-up (Mick

Hart, Chris Woods, Peter Thorpe)

Rosemount. Mixed Pairs winners

(Toni Dickson, Lee Dickson) Spartan

& Lakeside. Runners-up (Sally St John,

Richard Maton) Worthing.

Men’s Pairs winners (Steve Murphy,

Richard Maton) Worthing. Runnersup

John Frost (Houghton Regis),

Peter Oakman (White Rock).

Ladies Singles winner Lorraine

Milburn (White Rock). Runner-up

Sue Hennock (Eastbourne). Men’s

Singles winner Lee Dickson (Spartan

& Lakeside). Runner-up Mark

James (Ixworth).

Join us for

our next

event

Bowes House care home,

Hailsham

Meet the manager

cheese and wine evening

Tuesday 19th November

5.30pm - 7pm

Join us for an evening of cheese and wine at our

beautiful home. Meet our experienced home

manager and learn more about the quality care

and lifestyles we offer at Bowes House.

Trusted to care.

To book please call

01323 315957 or email

lisa.phillips@careuk.com

28 SPORT

OCTOBER 2024


Sport

Sidley celebrate

promotion with

play-off success

Light homes in on

push for points

BY MIKE LEGG

PHOTOS: JON SMALLDON

RYAN LIGHT believes the success

of Bexhill United’s season will rest

on their home form.

The Pirates finally played a

SCFL premier division game at

the Polegrove last Wednesday

night when they drew 1-1 with

Lingfield (Sep 26).

Prior to playing Haywards Heath

in the RUR Cup the week before

(Sept 18), Light’s roadrunners had

been playing either away or at

borrowed grounds as the cricket club

finished its season.

Boss Light said: “It is huge for us

to be back. Before we played Heath,

our first 12 games were away and

we clocked up 962 miles — which

is staggering.

“So, we are delighted to get back as

we are now on a level playing field

with everybody else because home

advantage is massive, especially for

us as we always seem to do well here.

“We now have 15 of our next 20

league games at home, which is an

incredible advantage. And our target

is to win our home games because we

are a match for anybody at home.

“We have clawed our way to nine

points away and if we had won

against Lingfield, we would have

been three points off the play-offs as

the table is still congested. By the end,

our season will be defined by what

we do at home.”

United have signed winger Jaan

Stanley from Loxwood but Light

admits it is a revolving door with

summer signing Tyler Capon, the

club’s top scorer, leaving to play

football a division lower with “his

mates” at Seaford.

Light could not believe United did

not win against Lingfield with striker

Evan Archibald scoring one penalty

but then having another saved

before putting the rebound over with

the goal gaping.

The Pirates started the month with

a 4-0 loss to Peacehaven in the Peter

Bentley Cup (Sept 3) but followed up

with an excellent 1-0 win at Pagham

in the league with Aaron Capon on

target (Sept 7).

United’s Sussex Senior Cup interest

ended with a 3-2 defeat to Mile Oak,

losing to a last-minute header after

Dan Rogers and Tyler Capon had

been on target (Sept 11).

Ten-man Pirates suffered late

heartache when they lost 2-1

against Eastbourne United. Connor

Robertson was sent off for a second

caution but Max Hollobone made it

1-1 before Eastbourne pinched the

win on 85 minutes (Sept 14).

That long-awaited return to the

Polegrove did not deliver any goals

as Pirates drew 0-0 with Haywards

Heath in the Sussex RUR Cup

Ryan Light, Joseph Knight and Graham

Cox unveil tribute to Joe Knight

Bexhill United

in action against

Haywards Heath

before losing 5-3 on penalties

in the shootout.

Joseph Knight unveiled a plaque

in memory of his late father

and club photographer, Joe, at

the Heath game.

Bexhill October fixtures: Haywards

Heath (home, Oct 2); Midhurst

& Ease (away, Oct 5); Horsham

YMCA (home, Oct 12); Peacehaven

(home, Oct 26).

Meanwhile, player-boss Russ

Eldridge says it is not all “doom and

gloom” despite Little Common being

bottom of the table.

Common had just two points

from eight games but hopes of a

further point were snatched away

at Crowborough last Tuesday

(Sep 24) when they suffered an

agonising 1-0 loss.

Speaking before their last game

of September against Eastbourne

United, Eldridge said: “It was a

heartbreaking defeat at Crowborough

as it was the last kick of the game.

But it’s no good sitting around feeling

sorry for ourselves — and we’re

not. We shall keep fighting and

we won’t give up.

“The effort, attitude and endeavour

has been great from everyone, it is

just trying to get that spark to get that

win to maybe change our fortunes.

“We want to get three points and,

hopefully, our fortunes will change.

We’re doing lots of good things but

obviously not enough because we are

not getting the results we want.

“There are some positives and it’s

not all doom and gloom. People look

at the league table, and it doesn’t lie

as we don’t have enough points, but

in terms of the games we are there or

thereabouts and need to find a way to

Promoted Sidley 1st XI

SIDLEY will be playing in East

Sussex Cricket League division ten

(East) next season after winning

their promotion play-off against

Chiddingly II at Buxted Park.

Set a target of 145 from their 40 overs,

Sidley won by four wickets with 17

balls to spare to start the celebrations.

Johnathan Haffenden (3-20), Louis

Haffenden (2-26), Craig Ramsden (2-

28) and Sabbir Ahmed (1-30) restricted

Chiddingly to 144-8. John Haffenden

with 51 not out and Chris Hunnisett

(32) led the successful chase to cap a

impressive season.

Sidley finished second in division

11 (East) to book their play-off spot,

recording 12 wins and just three

get ourselves over the line.”

Common had a stop-stop start to

the month. Their last game of August

at Old Varndeanians was postponed

due to a pitch issue at the Withdean

Stadium (Aug 30) — and their next

match back at The Rec against AFC

Uckfield in the Peter Bentley Cup was

abandoned due to floodlight failure.

An 81st-minute penalty consigned

Common to a 3-2 defeat against

visitors Wick in the league (Sept 7).

Paul Feakins and Eldridge scored to

put the hosts 2-1 ahead at the break

but a Joshua Irish double sealed

Wick’s comeback.

There was joy from the penalty spot

for the Commoners in the Sussex

Senior Cup when they twice fought

back to draw 3-3 before winning a

shootout 3-0 (Sep 10).

Liam Ward, Lewis Hole and Logan

Copley all netted their penalties

with Matt Cruttwell saving two

of the Uckfield spot-kicks for the

win. Daniel Harvey, Hole and sub

Frankie Manning got the goals in

a thrilling tie.

That win booked a tasty tie with

National League South high-fliers

losses with one cancellation. Top

of the honours board for batting

was Johnathan Haffenden with

his 111 not out, closely followed by

Asanka Pathiranage’s 90. The best

bowling figures were recorded

by Craig Ramsden 6-11 and

Johnathan Haffenden 5-9.

The 2nd XI also had a good season

— coming third in division 12 East

(South East). They won six of their

games, lost four and had four more

either cancelled or abandoned due to

the weather. Their best batting came

from Asanka Pathiranage, with 145,

and Pete Savage 84. The pick of the

bowling was Harry Little 5-11 and

Andy Pearson 4-6.

Eastbourne Borough at Priory

Lane on October 8.

Eldridge said: “That will be a nice

break from the league with no

pressure on us. We have a young

group, so it will be good for them

to experience that sort of game

and environment.”

Charlie Playford rescued a point

for Common with the equaliser in

the dying minutes against Saltdean

as they fought out a 1-1 home

draw (Sept 14).

Eldridge has an 18-man squad

to work with at present with

no immediate plans to hunt

for new signings.

He added: “We shall see how the

next month goes, see where we

are at and, obviously, things might

change and may have to go in a

different direction to see where we

need to get to.”

Common October fixtures:

Hassocks (away, Oct 1); Petersfield

Town (home, Oct 5); Eastbourne

Borough (away, SSC Oct 8); Loxwood

(away, Oct 12); AFC Uckfield (away,

PBC, Oct 15); AFC Varndeanians (away,

Oct 19); Newhaven (away, Oct 26).

Bexhill News, October 2024, Issue 28

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