Eastbourne News, April 2025, Issue 11

APRIL 2025 | ISSUE 11
YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR EASTBOURNE, WILLINGDON, MEADS AND SURROUNDING AREAS
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: LOCAL NEWS • EVENTS • FEATURES • MOTORING • SPORT
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2 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
WELCOME
IT IS a pleasure to bring you yet
another packed edition of your
free hyperlocal newspaper, which
we work so hard to produce for
you every month.
We receive a large number of
emails and contacts from readers
who express what a free local
newspaper means to them, and it’s
always nice to hear your feedback
on articles and those who send us
information to report on.
We are very grateful for the
support the local authorities
have given us for all three of our
newspaper titles.
It is an extremely testing time
for those councils, with such huge
changes on the horizon. Who knows
what the next few years will bring?
As we move towards the summer
period, I’m excited to look ahead to
a full diary of events, which I will
bring to you when they happen in
this newspaper. But do always let us
know if you’re holding an event in
the area. Just use the contact details
below to get in touch with me.
It’s these small and large events
that keep the community spirit in
the town alive. They bring together
so many people from all walks of life
and probably keep us going through
the dark winter months.
Also, we always like to hear
readers’ views on the stories we print
in this newspaper. Letters to the
editor are a great way to let everyone
know your opinions on the issues
that matter to you. You can email
letters@eastbourne.news, and it
could appear in next month’s paper.
Paul Gibson
Group Editor
THE TEAM
PAUL GIBSON — GROUP EDITOR
paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
VIKTORIA COWLEY – FEATURES AND ACCOUNTS
viktoria@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
MIKE LEGG – SPORTS REPORTER
sports@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
DEAN COOK – PRODUCTION
dean@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
CONTACT
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without express permission of the editor.
Shock as Hospice reduces
workforce due to funding crisis
ST Wilfrid’s Hospice in Eastbourne
has announced around six per
cent of its workers will be affected
by changes due to ‘significant
financial challenges’.
The hospice made the
announcement recently and blamed
inflation, the rising cost of living,
increased national insurance
contributions and a reduction
in gifts in wills for the move, but
bosses say they must protect the
future of the hospice to ensure it
continues to operate.
CEO Colin Twomey said: “It’s a
perfect storm. To ensure we pay
our people fairly and attract and
retain good people, we have seen
our salaries increase in the past two
years. We have also seen the cost
of goods and utilities rise and our
national insurance contributions rise.
At the same time, our government
funding has remained broadly
the same, and our income from
legacies has reduced.
“Up until now we have been able
to use our reserves to make up the
shortfall, but it has become clear
that this is no longer sustainable. We
need to act now to secure the future
of the hospice.”
Following campaigning by
national hospice charity, Hospice
UK, St Wilfrid’s recently received
a government grant to improve its
buildings and equipment. It has
also joined a national campaign to
encourage more people to leave
gifts in their wills, and it has been
working on a three-year plan to
balance its budget.
Despite all of this, the hospice is now
facing the reality that it will have to
reduce its staffing.
Mr Twomey added: “We were
grateful for the additional government
grant announced in December 2024.
However, this funding cannot be used
for salaries or running costs, and as
a charity providing healthcare our
major cost is our staff.
“We have been working hard to
reduce costs wherever possible and
maximise opportunities for income,
but we are now at a point where we
will have to reduce our staffing costs
to bring the deficit in our budget to a
manageable level. This will inevitably
require removing some roles through
redundancies and reduction in hours.
“It’s been a tough decision, and
not one we have taken lightly. We
are working to identify what this
reduction will mean for our staff,
patients and wider community. I want
to emphasise we will do all we can to
protect patient services, and I want
to reassure those receiving care from
St Wilfrid’s that we will continue to
provide that care, and we will keep
you informed of any future changes.”
Toby Porter, CEO of Hospice UK
says: “We’re sad to see yet another
hospice forced to consider making job
losses due to financial pressure. We
extend our compassion to everyone
affected by these cuts to services and
to the excellent team at St Wilfrid’s.
“The government has been clear
that hospices have a big role to play
in their plans to shift more care into
the community. Hospices, like St
Wilfrid’s, are ready to help and have
the skills and ability to do so, but rising
costs mean too many are having to
reduce what they can offer, exactly
at the time when demand for their
care is growing.
“While the recent £100m investment
from central government is a
significant step, we need to see a
long-term change to how palliative
and end of life care is paid for by
local NHS commissioners to ensure
hospices like St Wilfrid’s have the
sustainable funding they need to
support their local communities long
into the future.”
Colin added: “Whilst everyone
at St Wilfrid’s is saddened by this
situation, we’re enormously grateful
to our amazing community, who
are standing by us in this time of
adversity. Their generosity in trying to
reduce our funding gap by donating,
fundraising, leaving gifts in wills,
playing our lottery and visiting
our shops, is heartening and aweinspiring.
It is thanks to this support
that we have been able to grow our
services over the years to meet the
needs of our community, and we
want to assure our community that
we are doing everything in our power
to make sure the hospice is here for
many years to come.”
Red Arrows to fly all four days at top event
THE RAF Red Arrows will lead
an all-star line-up at this year’s
Airbourne with a display on all
days of the show.
Eastbourne Borough Council, the
organisers of Airbourne, as this
year’s event will coincide with the 80
year anniversary of VJ Day and the
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s
Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane will
also perform on all four days of the
show in a living tribute.
The Typhoon display will this
year mark a special anniversary,
celebrating two decades since the
team’s first-ever performance at
the show. Following its debut, the
fast jet favourite has flown at every
Eastbourne Airshow since.
Making their Eastbourne debut
Air Cadets have knife crime talk
A MAN whose son was tragically
stabbed and killed in an
attack in West Sussex visited
Eastbourne’s Air Cadets recently
to give a powerful talk about the
consequences of the crime.
18-year-old Charlie Cosser, from
Surrey, was stabbed three times in the
chest during a party in July 2023, he
died two days later.
Since his death, his Father, Martin,
created Charlie’s Promise and has
been campaigning against knife crime
and talking to young people about
his experience, the consequences
on all four days is 46 Aviation
— a married wingwalking team
from Switzerland.
Flown by Swiss unlimited Aerobatic
Champion Emiliano Del Buono, with
wingwalker Danielle Del Buono,
the team will bring a few neverbefore-seen
wingwalking acrobatics
over Eastbourne.
Finally, crowd favourite and
Airscene Awards finalist Rich
Goodwin completes the early line-up,
returning with the Jet Pitts (Thurs-
Sun), showcasing his astonishing
aerobatics in the world’s first jetpowered
Pitts Special.
of carrying knives, and the effect it
has on families.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s
Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure,
Accessibility and Community
Safety, Cllr Margaret Bannister said
“Despite this fantastic news, we
still have much-needed funds to
raise to support the fantastic flying
displays at the show, to ensure it
is financially sustainable and to
enable it to continue. We need your
support to keep this show flying
high — please do donate, or show
your support as a business with
sponsorship if you can.”
Airbourne takes place from
14–17 August 2025.
Martin commented: “It’s always
wonderful when you receive such
great feedback, and not only did I hear
from some of the cadets, but several
parents also messaged me privately.
“I’d like to thank Ray, the team
of leaders, but, most importantly,
the young cadets who were
respectful, engaged throughout
and clearly moved.
“I’m confident these young people
now know how to report a knife
carrier anonymously, understand the
immeasurable impact of knife crime
and feel like they really do know who
my little boy was.

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4 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Cash boost for
community schemes
GRANTS totalling over £92,000
for a diverse range of community
projects across Eastbourne have
been approved by councillors.
Recipients of the grants, which has
been allocated from Community
Infrastructure Levy (CIL), include
Defiant Sport which will receive
£10,000 to improve its facilities
including disabled access toilets;
Community Wise gets £5,566
towards enhancing its foyer;
Friends of Eastbourne Seafront is
granted £8,000 for its Wooden Play
Trail to be built near Eastbourne
Skatepark; Eastbourne Rugby Club
is awarded £10,000 for clubhouse
improvements; and £3,500 has been
agreed for an e-cargo bike to serve
community food groups.
Additionally, £8,000 has been
allocated to create Sovereign Harbour
Play Park, £20,000 for the installation
of Shinewater Kiosk with café and
toilets and £3,215 for an internal
access ramp at the Wish Tower.
The financial support agreed at a
recent Cabinet meeting comes from
a Neighbourhood CIL pot and will be
used to help pay for various initiatives
such as improving sports and play
amenities, enhancing community
buildings and support for the
community food network.
Councillor Colin Swansborough,
Cabinet Member for Enterprise,
Community Spaces and Planning,
said: “This is great news for
Eastbourne. These projects will
make a real difference to the lives of
local people, providing improved
facilities, enhancing our public
spaces, and supporting a wide range
of community activities.
“It is particularly welcome to be
able to confirm these grants in
the face of ongoing pressures to
council budgets.”
Councillor Swansborough added:
“I’m delighted that we’ve been
able to support such a diverse
range of initiatives that will have a
positive impact on people of all ages
and interests.”
Since the CIL scheme began 10
years ago, Eastbourne Borough
Council has collected just over
£1,065,000 to fund infrastructure
projects in the borough.
Fine for trader
selling fake
designer goods
A MAN who sold fake designer
goods online has been ordered to
pay more than £500 for charges
dating back five years.
Mark Limmer, 61, of Upton
Road, Eastbourne, told Brighton
Magistrates Court that he was
unaware of a summons to appear in
court in 2021 before pleading guilty
to all six charges under the Trade
Marks Act 1994.
East Sussex Trading Standards
discovered the All Things Bling
Facebook page in June 2020, which
was selling branded items claiming
to be from designers such as Louis
Vuitton, Versace and Chanel.
In a test purchase, officers
were able to buy a pair of Chanel
branded sunglasses and a Versace
branded lamp from the Facebook
page, and an investigation
identified the defendant and a
storage unit in Eastbourne where
a small number of counterfeit
items were found.
Mr Limmer was charged with
six offences relating to counterfeit
items for sale on Facebook and
those found in the storage unit
including a Louis Vuitton belt,
Louis Vuitton shoes, a Hermes belt,
Chanel sunglasses, a Versace lamp
and a Chanel vase.
After failing to appear at
Hastings Magistrates Court in
November 2021, a warrant was
issued for his arrest and Mr
Limmer appeared for sentencing
at Brighton Magistrates Court on
Wednesday, February 26.
He was ordered to pay a fine of £200,
and £80 surcharge and £200 costs.
The judge ordered all seized items
to be destroyed.
Cllr Penny di Cara, the county
council’s lead member for economy
said: “This case has taken time to
reach a conclusion but will hopefully
send a message to anyone selling
counterfeit goods in East Sussex
that we will persevere to bring
them to justice.
“The sale of counterfeit
goods has a detrimental
effect on genuine traders and
manufacturers, as well as damaging
consumer confidence.”
Numerous cars
damaged following
Police chase
POLICE arrested a man after he
failed to stop and crashed into
a number of cars following a
pursuit in Eastbourne.
The incident happened
Saturday, 9th March, around
8:20pm, when officers followed
a vehicle and tracked it to
Willingdon Road.
The vehicle was then pursued to
Larkspur Drive in Eastbourne, where
the black Mercedes-Benz collided
into four parked vehicles before the
driver decamped.
A taser was deployed and a man
in his 50s was arrested on suspicion
of failing to stop, driving whilst
disqualified and dangerous driving.
No one was injured during
the collisions.
Police are asking that anyone who
witnessed the incident or has footage
that could assist the investigation
to contact them.
Big Wheel returns to
seafront for Easter period
THE 36-metre-high observation
wheel offering panoramic views
across the town is set to launch the
Easter holiday period.
Located on the beaches east of the
Redoubt, the ‘Sky Club’ will operate
for four weeks from Saturday 5 April,
from morning until evening, offering
a bird’s eye view of the seafront
towards the harbour and pier.
Operating at major events across
Europe, including the Dutch Grand
Prix, the Sky Club is being transported
to Eastbourne for its first visit.
Alongside the big wheel, there will
be the addition of the ever-popular
bungee trampolines.
An Eastbourne Borough Council
spokesperson said “We’re delighted
to welcome the Sky Club as a new
daytime and evening attraction to the
Eastern Seafront. The observation
wheel is such a big crowd-pleaser
for people of all ages and it will
offer the most spectacular views
and a new perspective of our
wonderful coastline.
“As well as bringing additional
footfall to this part of the seafront and
to nearby family attractions, it will
also light up the seafront’s growing
nighttime economy. It’s another
exciting thing to put on the to-do list
as Eastbourne gears up for a packed
programme of events this year.”
To enable the installation of the new
attraction, the promenade will be
temporarily closed between Treasure
Island Car Park and the T junction
near Splash Point Café from 7am on
31 March until 4 April.
From Saturday 5 April the Sky Club
will open daily with rides from 10am
to 10pm, lighting up the evening with
illuminations until 9pm. Rides cost £7
per adult, £6 per child, £2 for under 3’s
or £30 for a gondola (up to 6 people).
Also opening on 5 April, the Dotto
Train returns to the seafront with
daily services through to 31 October
(except 14 – 17 August). Running
from Holywell to the Harbour, the
train will pass by the Sky Club en
route and travellers can hop off at
Fisherman’s Green if they wish to
ride the wheel.
Council
takes action
on problem
caravan
AN eyesore caravan has been
removed from Upperton Gardens
where it had been left for over
18 months, attracting antisocial
behaviour.
Eastbourne Borough Council’s
Neighbourhood First team recently
undertook the removal with the
support of East Sussex County
Council and Sussex Police.
Councillor Colin Swansborough,
Cabinet Member for Community
Spaces, said: “It’s important that our
streets are safe and pleasant places
for people to live.
“This rundown caravan had a
detrimental effect on the area over
a prolonged period of time and we
took the opportunity to address
it proactively for the benefit of
local residents.”

6 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
I.T systems as part of the transfer and
then we’re looking to give the gym
a small uplift.
Over the course of the next couple
of months we’re replacing all of the
cardio equipment in the gym. We’re
investing in the latest state-of-the-art
equipment and will be doing some
other work around that area, as it’s a
bit tired at the moment.
There are also some customerfacing
areas that just need a little bit
of attention in terms of cleaning up,
regrouting etc, but they are things
that make a difference to people
when they visit.
We won’t have all of those done on
day one, it will probably be done over
the course of the next few months,
but we want to do it quickly so that
people notice that difference.
Local man tasked to make the
Sovereign Centre great again
Joseph Rham
CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating
after the announcement that the
fun pool at the town’s Sovereign
Centre is reopening, following
months of closure.
Under the watchful eye of local man
Joseph Rham from GLL, who grew
up visiting the Sovereign Centre,
a number of essential changes are
being made behind the scenes and
throughout the centre with the aim of
getting customers back through the
doors from this month.
GLL is the largest UK-based
charitable social enterprise
delivering leisure, health and
community services. The company
will be bringing its extensive
experience to Eastbourne to ensure
the centre becomes the hub of the
community again.
The company will be investing
a minimum of £1million over the
next three years in collaboration
with Eastbourne Borough Council.
A special event on April 5th will see
the official reopening of the fun pool
which is being welcomed by residents
throughout the area.
Editor Paul Gibson talks to Joseph,
Customer and Communities
Director from GLL, about the
reopening and to find out how the
new agreement secures the future of
the popular venue…
The last few months have been a very
challenging time for the authorities
and residents following the closure
of the fun pool — what has been the
greatest challenge?
We’ve had to do quite a lot in a
little space of time, there’s actually
nothing that has been overly difficult.
Eastbourne Borough Council have
been very good to work with, but we’ve
generally been working at pace to get
things running again.
Normally, you would allow about
12 months in terms of going through
the whole mobilisation and agreeing
to processes, for example, and that
has been condensed down to around
a couple of months. The good news is,
it’s all gone well.
The main objective is to deliver a
seamless transfer from a customer
perspective. We are now having
customer communications going
out and other bits and pieces, so
hopefully, it’s a seamless process.
When you reopen the pool this
month, what key differences
will residents see?
We’re trying to make an impact
because we’re conscious that the
public knows the pool has been shut,
and we want customers to come back
to the centre, that’s obviously key to
the business plan.
Hopefully, customers don’t notice
any changes to the daily operations,
that would be our main aim in terms
of direct debits, the transfer of
memberships, the centre programme
and the activities available. The
programme is not changing
significantly, there are a few tweaks
around the programme when we
reopen the fun pool, but all that is
favourable towards the customer.
We are uplifting some of the
prices for new customers across
memberships and some of the
activities, but we’ll have that on the
website. That is just the reality of
moving the centre forward to making
it sustainable.
GLL was approached to make
sure we support people, with the
right price for the right person, and
people’s individual needs. Hopefully,
people don’t find them too significant,
we don’t think they are, but
predominantly, those areas would be
the main changes.
You’ve announced that you’ll be
investing one million pounds in the
centre, what is that money being
spent on and over what period?
Unfortunately, a lot of the ‘unseen’
items need investing in to keep the
building running. Behind the scenes,
we will be making sure we’ve got
robust systems that won’t break down.
What we are also going to do is
have a refresh around the centre
throughout key customer areas, new
How can residents be sure your
investment will secure the
future of the centre?
We want to be running the Sovereign
Centre for the long term, there is
obviously a discussion that needs to be
had around what that future looks like
and what investments are needed for
the longer term.
GLL wants to be involved for the
longer term and hopefully, this is
the start of a good relationship, we
believe that there’s a future in the
centre there and that’s why we’re
getting involved in the first place.
We hope that our initial investment
and what we’re doing across the
board will lead to that future
discussion. We’ve got these priorities
initially of getting the centre back
up and running, encouraging
people back, reopening the fun
pool, and we want to collaborate
on what that future looks like with
the council, with residents and with
community stakeholders.
What would your message be to any
residents reading this article who
have been affected by the closure?
We want as many people as possible
to come back, enjoy the centre,
spread the word that the fun pool is
reopening, make it as busy as possible
and then hopefully, we can start to
think about what that future looks like.
That’s the biggest thing local people
can do to support that vision.

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8 INTERVIEW
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Craig Revel Horwood:
My new show is strictly
about the music!
HE’S known and loved by millions
for getting to the point and as part
of his UK tour, Strictly star, Craig
Revel Horwood, he promises
to do just that.
His show, called Revelations, is
coming to the Congress Theatre
in Eastbourne on 17th April, when
the audience will get to learn
about the ‘real Craig’ in his most
personal tour yet.
Craig turned 60 in January and has
become a national treasure — he
started out in musical theatre, where
his first ever job was West Side Story
and took singing lessons as a kid, in
his native Australia.
Music was in his life throughout his
schooling. He said: “It just seemed to
be a very natural journey for me to go
into musicals. I just loved performing
in musicals until I was 30. People don’t
really know me as a singer because
I’ve been in the background doing
it, I suppose.”
Other areas of his life took over.
He became one of the UK’s best
and most influential directors and
choreographers, winning Laurence
Olivier Award nominations for Spend
Spend Spend and My One and Only. He
directed the opening ceremonies of
the 2002 Commonwealth Games in
Manchester and was invited to join
the judging panel for BBC’s Strictly
Come Dancing in 2004. As of 2025, he’s
Strictly’s only original judge.
Strictly made him a household name
as a stringent rule-follower who has
dished out more low scores of ‘1’ than
any other judge.
Becoming famous for catchphrases
and unique locutions — from chahchah-chah
to fab-u-lous — Craig has
outlasted everyone.
Yet there are many more strings
to his diamante-encrusted bow, and
singing is foremost among them.
So when the opportunity arose last
year to record an album of songs
with the UK’s leading musical
theatre record label, Westway, he
jumped at the chance.
“I thought: ‘Come on, you’re 60. Do
it.’ My mum’s always told me to get an
album together, and do something. So
I thought: ‘Yeah, I’ll do it.’ I grew up in
the era before things were recorded
— so there are no recordings of my
earlier performances in theatre. No
one had mobile phones and all of that
malarkey back then. Now everything
is recorded, no matter what you do,
I walk out the hotel room, and it’s
recorded by someone.”
Craig went into the studio and
recorded Revelations — Songs Boys
Don’t Sing. It was a stunning collection
of tunes that showcased a marvellous,
emotive, pitch-perfect voice. His
interpretations of such songs as
Memory showed a discombobulating
degree of warmth and empathy,
Don’t Rain On My Parade cast him as
the ultimate razzle-dazzle showman,
while As Long As He Needs Me, became
a song that took on new meaning with
Craig’s thoughtful tenderness.
Just like the Great British public,
who gave the singer his first chart hit,
Craig was thrilled. “Singing is such a
liberating experience. Each song on
the album means something to me.
You know, the first ever musical that
my mum went to see with the kids was
Jesus Christ Superstar, so I’ve recorded I
Don’t Know How To Love Him.
“Waltzing Matilda is in there
because I was born in Australia
and when we grew up it was like a
national anthem.”
Craig’s show will be about much
more than his favourite songs, of
course. He’ll also tell stories about the
part they’ve played in his life — and,
yes, spoiler alert, there’ll be plenty of
tales about Stories, from the other side
of the dancefloor.
“I want to talk about the songs that
I love and the reasons they are still
with me and in my life. I know I’ve
written three autobiographies, but my
autobiographies were always about
how I got Strictly. This show, for me,
is strictly about music and my passion
and love for it.
“That’s what drives my life and it’s
just so nice to be able to get up there
and sing and entertain people really
because that’s what I was born to do.”
Many of the songs will be familiar
to Craig’s fans — and will have a
special place in their heart, just as
they do in Craig’s.
“I wanted to do Memory, from Cats,
because I was in that show, but I’d
never get to sing that song because
I’d obviously never get the part of
Grizabella. It’s the same with I Don’t
Know How To Love Him, from Oliver!
It just goes without saying, you know,
that I’ll never play Nancy.
“So the record, and the tour, gives
me an opportunity to sing songs
that I know and love. The show
will be about my love for the music
and how it’s affected my life. It’ll be
about relationships, too, because we
all go through the same emotions
in relationships.
“I’ll be talking about that, and
heartbreak, and where it can lead.
You know, Adele has proved proved
how much emotion heartbreak can
evoke, not just for singers, but for the
audience, too.”
Craig will be joined on stage
by the super talented musician,
Ben Goddard, who fans will
recall from their double-act on
Celebrity Gogglebox. He can’t wait
to hang out with one of his best
mates, and is expecting plenty of
laughter along the way.
“The tour will be the opportunity
to have a good time along with Ben,
who I love. I’ve worked with him
quite a lot, either directing with him
or we did a one-man show together,
which was hilarious.
“For me, this is about the real Craig
Revel Horwood, not the judge Craig
Revel Horwood. It’s about my life
before I became a judge, and then
my life after being a judge, because
that, of course, is the only thing that
I’m famous for.”
Now it’s time to hit the road - Craig
will be completing a huge tour with
and can hardly wait. He’s more
than happy to temporarily ditch
the comfort of his judge’s chair on
Strictly, or the comfort of a West End
theatre, as he heads into the regions.
“The reason I love touring is that it
takes me to the people and I get to see
the country. It’s about that as much as
meeting people and learning because,
you know, in certain areas, you’ll get
different audiences.
“Every city and town has a
wonderful theatre and we’ll be
visiting those gems and thinking, you
know, wow. I’m going to 53 theatres
around the country in three months,
you know, it’s pretty full on. But it’s
great, it’s fantastic, and there’s some
places I’ve been before that I can’t
wait to return to, and those places
I’ve never been.
It’s going to be great. I’m looking
forward to it.”
With that, it’s time to call it a wrap.
Craig Revel Horwood has become
part of the national discourse with
his humorous role on Strictly, but, as
importantly, he’s been responsible
for some of the nation’s best work in
musical theatre.
Now it’s time for him to step out of
the shadow and take centre stage.
It’s time to hear him sing like never
before. And it’s time to hear Craig
Revel Horwood’s very own, very
personal Revelations.
Tickets for the show on
17 April can be booked at
www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 NEWS 9
Meet the candidates in
by-election for Upperton
and Langney wards
ON 1st May, the polls will be open
to elect two new councillors
for the Upperton and Langney
wards in Eastbourne following
the resignation of Anita Mayes
and Robin Maxted.
Here are the candidates you
are voting for.
UPPERTON WARD
NICHOLAS
APPLEBY
REFORM UK
Statement: “My
family’s roots in
Eastbourne go back
over 100 years, and as a former student
at Upperton, I have a deep connection
to our community. I’ve decided to
stand as a Reform UK candidate for
Eastbourne because I’ve witnessed
the deterioration in our borough,
as well as unnecessary council
spending and waste.
Nicholas said: “I’m committed
to bringing practical, commonsense
approaches back to local
government. Please help me to help
you by voting for ReformUK.”
TIM WHELAN
CONSERVATIVE
Tim served
Eastbourne Borough
Council for nearly
two decades,
starting as a tree officer and working
his way up to being the director for
service delivery.
Whelan, who moved to
Eastbourne in 2001 after falling in
love with the town, has pledged to
‘stand up for Eastbourne against
the mismanagement of recent
years’, if elected.
Tim said: ”For most of my career,
I’ve worked collaboratively with
councillors across the political
spectrum with the sole aim of
providing the best for our Town.
But I can no longer stand by and
watch as our Liberal Democrat
administration loses sight of the
Council’s core purpose.
“Upperton residents want
stability. They want their bins
emptied on time, their grass
cut, weeds cleared, and a
council that offers good value
for money while being there
when they need it.
“Residents are being asked to pay
more and more for increasingly
diminished services. As someone
who has dedicated the last 20 years
to this town, I believe Eastbourne
deserves better.”
TOM NEVILL
LIBERAL
DEMOCRATS
Established transport
campaigner Tom
Nevill, is standing as
the Liberal Democrat candidate for
Upperton, joining Councillors Patrick
Rodohan and Kathy Ballard working
year-round for real local change.
Tom said: “I am campaigning to
improve street lighting in Hartfield
Square, action on the vandalised toilets
in Gildridge Park as well as holding
the Conservative-run County Council
to account for failing to maintain
pavements and fix potholes.”
Tom studied Urban Design,
Planning, and Development at Oxford
Brookes University.
LANGNEY
WARD
KARA BISHOP
LIBERAL
DEMOCRAT
Former MacMillan
Nurse Kara Bishop was Chief
Executive of St Wilfrid’s Hospice
for ten years.
She is standing as the Liberal
Democrat candidate for Langney.
She would join Councillors Alan
Shuttleworth and Candy Vaughan
continuing their campaigning work to
address the poor state of pavements
and roads in Langney, campaigning
for a post office in Langney shopping
centre. Working year round to put the
needs of Langney residents first.
ROSIE MOON
CONSERVATIVE
Rosie is standing
to give Langney a
stronger voice and
ensure residents’
concerns are heard at the Council.
Born and raised in Eastbourne,
Rosie attended Ratton School
and East Sussex College,
where she studied public
services before qualifying as a
bookkeeper. She has deep roots
in the town and is determined
to stand up for residents who
feel let down by years of Liberal
Democrat mismanagement.
Rosie said: “For too long,
Langney has been neglected by
our Council From the decline of
our local facilities to skyrocketing
parking charges and cuts to essential
services, residents are paying more
but getting less.
“I want future generations to enjoy
the Eastbourne I grew up in. I know
how much Langney means to the
people who live here, because I feel
the same way. I want to see our town
thriving, not falling into disrepair. If
elected, I’ll work tirelessly to make
sure Langney gets the attention and
investment it needs.”
STEPHEN
LORCH
REFORM UK
”Langney deserves
better than rising
taxes, crumbling
roads, and increasing crime. As
your Reform UK candidate, I bring
proven experience tackling waste
in local government, with years on
planning, housing, and environment
committees”, said Stephen.
He added: “I will fight for
swift pothole repairs, safer
pavements, and effective action
against antisocial behaviour.
The Lib Dem council has
neglected Langney, but I stand for
accountability and fairness. Vote for
me to ensure our community thrives”
Polling stations will be open from
7am-10pm on Thursday 1st May.
All voters must take ID to the
polling station.
At our Eastbourne Clinic, your ears are wholly looked after
and you can book appointments for all your hearing needs:
l Microsuction wax removal l Hearing tests
l Customised earplugs l Second opinions and more...
WAX REMOVAL
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ASSESSMENTS
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Contact us for more information
Opening Hours:
Monday – Friday
9am–1pm, 2pm–5pm.
The Eastbourne Hearing Centre Ltd,
108 South Street, Eastbourne, BN21 4LZ

10 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Bluebell Walk set to open
ancient woodland to visitors
THIS month sees the reopening
of the stunning Arlington
Bluebell Walk and Farm Trail
for the 52nd year.
Open daily from April 4 until
May 8, almost 30 charities will
be raising money by taking over
the running of the food and drink
operation each day.
The amount raised by charities
passed £1 million last year, and for
owner, John McCutchan, that was an
important milestone.
John said: “This year we will be
opening a week earlier than we
did in 2024, and we look forward
to welcoming as many people as
possible again this year.
“We are delighted to welcome two
new charities - Children’s Respite
Trust and Chestnut Tree House
Children’s Hospice - and none of
this would be possible without the
support of our marvellous local
charities. I would like to thank each
and every one of them.”
The Bluebell Walk is a delightful
circular walk with a chance to enjoy
five farm trails, where visitors can
see Pygmy Goats and their kids,
Kingfisher captured by Paul Gibson at the lake
Kerry Hill Sheep and their lambs
along the route.
During a rest, visitors can view last
year’s winning images of the annual
Photographic competition, visit the
plant stall run in aid of Arlington
Village Church, the Book Room run
by Driving for the Disabled and the
Sundries Stall run by Hailsham Old
Pavilion Society.
Each year John and his team try to
make changes to make the visitor
experience even more enjoyable.
For 2025, there is a new efficient
and improved system to serve hot
food and drinks. There is also a new
Farm Walks map with new and
improved signage.
John said: “It is such a privilege
to host this five-week event. I did
think back in February that the
cold weather was holding back
the bluebells but the weather has
improved since them, so I’m hopeful
they will appear shortly.
“Every Tuesday and Friday, I report
on how nature is dealing with the
bluebells by updating the home page
of our website at bluebellwalk.co.uk.
“Please come and visit, you will be
assured of a warm welcome and, I am
sure, a very enjoyable time.”
There are 18 mobility scooters
available free of charge and the walk
is suitable for wheelchairs. During the
Bluebell Walk, Bates Green Garden
on the site is also open every day.
For more information, go to
www.bluebellwalk.co.uk, or
visit during the opening hours at
Bates Green Farm, Tye Hill Road,
Arlington, Polegate, BN26 6SH.
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
BUSINESS LOCAL NETWORK
FOR ENTREPRENEURS
Hailsham, Eastbourne & Uckfield — all 10-12pm,
£10 per person. Looking to grow your business
in a relaxed, natural setting? No forced pitches,
no pressure—just genuine conversations, fresh
ideas, and valuable connections. At BLN,
networking feels effortless!
Uckfield — The Pamper Lounge (TN22 5AE)
Wed 9 Apr & 14 May
Hailsham — Abbots Wood Manor (BN27 3AL)
Tue 15 Apr & 20 May
Eastbourne — Mortain Place (BN22 0AB) Wed
23 Apr & 28 May
Ready to join the conversation?
Book your spot now! For more information and
to book: https://bit.ly/BLN-CNB-April
BEXHILL
BEXHILL STAMP & POSTCARD CLUB
St Augustine’s church Hall, Cooden Drive,
Bexhill, TN39 3AZ. Wednesday 23 April,
7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to join the
conversation on collecting and admire the
themed displays created by our members for the
Goode Cup. Refreshments accompany our tariff
busting raffle.
LITTLE COMMON ROYAL BRITISH
LEGION WOMENS SECTION
The Poppy Club, Meads Avenue, Little Common
Saturday 26th April, 10am-12noon. Spring Fair.
Stalls include Books, Cakes, Plants, Clothes and
much more. All Welcome.
BEXHILL FARMERS’ MARKET
Devonshire Square, Bexhill-on-Sea. Every Friday,
9am-1pm. The market offers a variety of local
produce, including handmade pies, fresh bread,
meats, game, smoked products, cheeses, fish,
fruits, vegetables, jams, chutneys, cinnamon
buns, brownies, plants, and flowers. On the
second Friday of each month, The French
Delicatessen provides a selection of cheeses.
EASTBOURNE
CALMER SELF: A WORKSHOP ON
MANAGING STRESS, ANXIETY & LIFE
CHANGES
Mortain Place Care Home, 93 Pevensey Bay
Road, BN23 6JF. Monday 14th April — Choose
either the 3pm or 6pm Workshop. Join Nadine
for an informal workshop on letting go of
stress, anxiety, and worry. Topics will include
anticipatory grief, adjusting to change and
loss, navigating life-changing illnesses, and
any other concerns you may have. Running
time: 1–2 hours. Free to attend. Free parking
& refreshments. For more information and to
book your place, contact Nadine on nadine@
calmerself.co.uk or 07856 169186. Website:
www.calmerself.co.uk
EASTBOURNE WALKING NETBALL
Eastbourne Sports Park, Cross Levels Way.
Monday mornings 10am11am. All ages welcome
to join us. Walking netball is great for low-impact
fitness, fun and mixing with like-minded friendly
people. See our Facebook page for more info
or call Anne-Marie 07702 317728. £4.55 per
session.
EASTBOURNE BOROUGH MARKET
Terminus Road, Eastbourne, from Trinity Trees
to Marks & Spencer’s. Every Wednesday and
Sunday, 9.30am-4.30pm. The market features
a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, baked
goods, crafts, and more.
PEVENSEY BAY CRAFT MARKET
St Wilfrid’s Church Hall, Eastbourne Road,
Pevensey Bay. Second Saturday of the month,
10am-12.30pm. A monthly craft market —
Everyone welcome. FREE entry. Refreshments
available.
EAST DEAN & FRISTON ART GROUP
East Dean & Friston Village Hall, Village Green
Lane, BN20 0DR. Saturday 3 May 2025,
2pm–5pm; Sunday 4 & Monday 5 May 2025,
10am–4pm. Our annual Art Show showcasing
a wide range of original artwork, including
landscapes, figures, still life, birds, animals, and
abstract, all at affordable prices. Free entry &
free car parking, Café with homemade cakes. For
more information visit: www.eastdeanart.org.uk
HAILSHAM
HAILSHAM TOWN COUNCIL ANNUAL
MEETING
Hailsham Civic Community Hall in Vicarage Lane
Wednesday 7th May from 6:30pm. Residents
are invited to attend its Annual Town (Electors’)
Meeting. The main part of the meeting will
start at 7.30pm and will be chaired by the
Town Mayor and Chairman, Cllr Paul Holbrook.
Those who attend will be given the opportunity
to discuss matters applicable to the parish of
Hailsham and ask relevant questions, subject
to the provisions of Schedule 12 of the Local
Government Act 1972. The subject of the
questions can properly cover any issue of public
concern affecting residents of the parish. Prior
to the main residents’ meeting there will be an
opportunity for you to view information stands
from local groups and talk to representatives
of those organisations from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Confirmed attendees will be announced soon.
MILTON HIDE ALBUM RELEASE
Three top class folk acts take to the Hailsham
Pavilion stage for our first Folk Night. With
original interpretations of traditional folk,
lively story-based contemporary songs and
spellbinding songs of Ingushetia, be prepared
for an unforgettable evening from The
Kimberleys, Milton Hide and Daria Kulesh.
Milton Hide releases their long-awaited third
album, Bungaroosh, at this event. Jim Tipler and
Jo Church from East Sussex, weave eloquent,
well-crafted story-based songs. “Eclectic in style,
sound and subject matter. Delightfully engaging
and distinctly moreish. There’s political comment
and dark undercurrent, so subtle and easy is
the music that you don’t realise the stiletto has
arrived until it’s slid in. A very welcome addition
to the contemporary roots’ scene” — RnR
Magazine. www.miltonhide.com
To submit your listing for publication
on this page, visit: www.eastsussex.
news/community-noticeboard or
scan this QR Code.
The publishers cannot be responsible for any errors or omissions in this noticeboard.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 NEWS 11
Dancing on Ice Star Michaela
Strachan visits School Zoo
PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON
BEDE’S Senior School, based
in Upper Dicker, welcomed
renowned wildlife presenter,
conservationist and most
recent runner-up of Dancing on
Ice, Michaela Strachan, as the
latest speaker in their Pyemont
Lecture series.
With a remarkable 30-year career
in television, Michaela shared her
incredible journey, captivating
pupils, parents and staff in an evening
of conversation with Headmaster, Mr
Peter Goodyer.
She shared stories of her passion
for wildlife conservation and her
extensive experiences in the world of
television broadcasting.
Best known for her nature and
wildlife programmes, including
the long-running BBC series
‘Springwatch’, ‘Autumnwatch’
and ‘Winterwatch’, Michaela has
become a beloved figure in British
broadcasting, bringing nature into
homes across the nation.
Michaela spoke about her career
journey — beginning on the stage,
studying musical theatre at the Arts
Educational College in London and
performing in the West End.
However, her career took a
fascinating turn to television, where
she became a familiar face on iconic
children’s programmes of the 1980s,
such as The Wide Awake Club and The
Really Wild Show.
Her recent projects, including
impactful documentaries like
Ice Age and Swimming in Sewage,
demonstrate her unwavering
commitment to raising awareness
about critical environmental issues.
Adding to her already busy
schedule, Michaela has also just
finished as runner-up in the latest
series of Dancing on Ice.
A highlight of the visit was
Michaela’s time spent in Bede’s Senior
School’s own zoo. Accompanied by
pupils, BTEC Animal Management
teachers and the zookeeping team,
she learned about the diverse range
of over 70 species of mammal, reptile,
amphibian and bird housed within
the school’s facility. She even met
three Grandidier’s Vontsiras, a littleknown
species of mongoose with just
a thousand remaining in the world.
Headmaster at Bede’s Senior School,
Peter Goodyer, said: “Micheala’s
visit was truly inspiring. Her passion
for wildlife and her dedication to
conservation resonated deeply with
our community. We are incredibly
grateful for her time and for sharing
her invaluable experiences.
“The collection we hold in the
zoo forms the cornerstone on
which the Sixth Form BTEC Animal
Management course is built, as
well as the location for one of the
school’s most popular activities: the
Zoological Society.
“This truly unique facility provides
an invaluable teaching resource,
which enables pupils to learn and
to pursue their interests, and which
allows them to participate in national
and international programmes for
the benefit of wildlife.”
The 820-pupil school is one of
the few in the UK to have a zoo
on site with its own zookeeper
and a specialist team of
assistants and pupils training in
animal management.
1
32
offer extended until 31 December 2025
s a v e
single fares
for just
£1, £2 £3 or
find out more:
on buses
in East Sussex
eastsussex.gov.uk
/bus-fares

12 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Trevor Weeks at Common Pond
Wildlife rescuer completes
East Sussex charity trek
A CHARITY worker has completed
almost a one-hundred-mile walk
across the county to celebrate its
landmark anniversary.
Trevor Weeks MBE, from East
Sussex Wildlife Rescue Ambulance
Service (WRAS) set off from Bewl
Water at the start of March and
finished the trek on Eastbourne
seafront ahead of a special
celebration at the Cumberland Hotel.
The route zigzagged across East
Sussex to mark special locations
where interesting rescues
had taken place.
It’s all to raise money for the charity
which celebrated its 30th anniversary
last month. Trevor has been working
in wildlife rescue for 40 years.
Trevor continued to carry out
his normal daily duties whilst
doing the walk, such as organising
volunteers and rescues, whilst
pounding the pavements.
Trevor told Eastbourne News: “It’s
been a crazy month so far. We’ve had
two deer rescues this week and a seal
rescue in St. Leonards, on top of the
normal daily running of the charity,
so it’s just been a lot more manic than
we’ve expected.
“We’re already getting baby birds
coming in and already have a group of
five fox cubs in. Everybody’s working
their socks off at the moment and
we’re not even in the busy season.”
Trevor set up WRAS 40-years ago
from Hailsham, so the Common
Pond in the town, has a special
Trevor presenting at the Cumberland Hotel event
place in his heart.
He added: “I used to be one of the
Wardens here many, many years
ago when I was a youngster. The
Hailsham Common Pond is a special
place for me, I’ve spent a lot of time
here over the years and it’s really nice
to see that the council have invested
in the pond. It’s so much better than it
used to be and they are trying to take
care of it and look after it on a fairly
limited budget.”
The walk took Trevor through
Mayfield, Heathfield, Uckfield,
Framfield, Lewes, Newhaven,
Arlington, Hailsham and
finally, Eastbourne.
During the trip, he stopped to record
videos about key rescues that stood
out in each town across his 40-year
background in wildlife rescue.
At the Hailsham section of the trip,
Trevor explained about the many
rescues of swans, geese and gulls
at the town’s Common Pond, and
as he moved through the town, he
spoke about a number of rescues of a
Duck and her chicks that had nested
WRAS volunteers at the Cumberland Hotel event
in The Grove, and how everyone
worked together to get them back
to nearby water.
As he reached Coopers Way, he
talked about how, in 1992, a number
of newts were displaced due to
the building of new homes and he
had to work with Natural England
to rescue them.
As Trevor reached Robin Post
Lane, he was called by his team
asking for help to rescue a deer near
Heathfield, so he was picked up by
the Wildlife Ambulance where he
rescued the deer, then continued with
his walk after.
As he passed through Abbots Wood,
Trevor explained how he’s rescued
animals such as badgers, tawny
owls, deer and then was invited to
meet the team at the Asda petrol
station at the Polegate Services who
Asda at Polegate donates £1,000
donated £1,000.
At the evening event at the
Cumberland to celebrate his
completion of the walk, he presented
some key stories to an audience of
how he became involved in rescues
and how he has built WRAS to
become the second largest wildlife
hospital in the southeast.
The audience also heard from
Daryl Farmer, a volunteer at WRAS
who rowed the Atlantic in 2016 in
aid of the hospital. He spoke about
the challenges he faced during the
3,000-mile trip which took 96 days
and raised thousands of pounds
in the process.
At the time of going to press,
almost £3,000 had been raised on the
back of his walk.
Visit www.wildlifeambulance.org to
donate to the cause.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 NEWS 13
Local man with national radio
career takes tour on the road
BY PAUL GIBSON
EX-CAVENDISH School pupil,
James Barr, says growing up in
Eastbourne wasn’t easy — being
‘ginger and gay’, in his own words,
made his upbringing in the town
even more difficult.
However, now boasting a successful
career in radio as presenter of The
Hits Radio Breakfast Show and named
as British LGBT Awards 2025 Top 10
Public Figures, James is taking his
story to theatres around the UK in a
powerful where he talks about ‘queer
domestic abuse’.
James started his media career
locally, working at radio stations
such as Sovereign Radio and
Southern FM, but has shot to fame
since then. boasting fans such as Ed
Sheeran and Dannii Minogue and
more recently racked up 15 million
views of his appearances on Piers
Morgan Uncensored.
His critically acclaimed stand-up
show, Sorry I Hurt Your Son (Said My
Ex to My Mum), is set to launch in
Brighton later this month — fresh
from rave reviews at Edinburgh and
Adelaide Fringe Festivals.
At the heart of his one-hour show is a
four-year relationship that left James
questioning everything.
His ex’s final words to his mother,
written in a Christmas card — “Sorry I
hurt your son” — became the title of a
show that lays bare the complexities
of queer domestic abuse, and makes
you laugh while doing it.
Choosing to tell his story in a
performance that is both funny and
bittersweet, James takes the audience
on an emotional rollercoaster offering
a refreshingly bold take on the impact
of abuse and the chaos that follows in
an hour of poignant stand-up comedy.
James commented: “Brighton has
always felt like home to me. Growing
up gay in Eastbourne, I used to sneak
into Brighton’s gay bars underage
and went to my first Pride there. It
was the first place I ever felt like I
truly belonged.
“Performing this show here is
special because Brighton gave
me safety and community when I
needed it most. I also workshopped
“Sorry I Hurt Your Son” at Brighton
Fringe in 2023 and 2024, so bringing
the full show back feels like a
full-circle moment.”
For James, laughter has always
been a powerful weapon against
life’s harshest blows. With a clever
mixing of tension and release, James’s
experience of the cycle of abuse
permeates the show, mirroring
James’ lived experience and
ultimate triumph.
By speaking out about his
experiences, James hopes to give
voice for the one in five adults
who experience domestic abuse
in the UK in their lifetimes. This
statistic is even higher for LGBTQ+
people, with reported domestic
abuse rates one-third higher for
Lesbian and Gay Individuals: 6% in
the last year, compared to 4.5% for
heterosexuals (Office for National
Statistics 2025).
Sorry I Hurt Your Son (Said My
Ex To My Mum) is a boundarypushing
stand against abuse, a call
for awareness, and a boldly funny
uplifting show of resilience — voiced
with sharp, self-aware humour
to break the silence that abuse
so often brings.
The tour kicks off at The Lantern
Theatre in Brighton on 25th – 26th
April and then moves on to Bristol,
Leeds, Nottingham, Plymouth,
Western-Super-Mare and
finally Hull in June.
Tickets can be booked by visiting
www.lanterntheatrebrighton.
co.uk/listings-new.
Charity quiz night raises
thousands for hospice
MORE than £2,000 was raised at a
charity quiz and raffle organised
by the FOUNDRY, all proceeds will
be sent to St. Wilfrid’s Hospice.
The event was organised by
Howden Insurance and Deliciously
Sweet Chocolate Company which
saw over 15 teams and over 95 people
compete, which included a chocolate
tasting round, prizes donated by local
businesses and free pizza.
The money raised will go to St
Wilfrid’s Hospice, a local charity
that relies on donations to provide
essential support for people towards
the end of their life, and their
families and carers.
Dave Longman, Corporate
Community Fundraiser for St
Wilfrid’s said: “What an incredible
evening! It was truly inspiring to
see three local businesses come
together in support of St. Wilfrid’s
Hospice. A heartfelt thank you to
Howden Insurance, Deliciously
Sweet Chocolate and FOUNDRY for
organising a quiz and raffle.
“We also want to extend our
gratitude to all the other local
businesses that donated to the raffle.
The total raised on the night was a
fantastic £2380. This will go towards
making sure that St Wilfrid’s Hospice
is able to protect the services that it
offers our community.
Danielle Drew, Commercial
Account Executive at Howden
Eastbourne said, “We are absolutely
thrilled with the turnout and
generosity shown by everyone who
attended. It was fantastic to see so
many teams coming together to
support St Wilfrid’s Hospice. Their
work is vital to our community, and
we’re proud to have played a part in
raising much-needed funds for such
an important cause.”
Hanna Searle, Membership
Manager at FOUNDRY said: “We are
honoured to have been able to help
facilitate such a wonderful evening
in support of a truly worthwhile
cause. It really shows what can be
achieved when we all come together
and collaborate to make events like
this happen, which benefits everyone
in our local area. It was really
heartwarming to see — we really are
all stronger together.”

14 EASTBOURNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
@EdealSouthEast @EdealSouthEast @Edeal-Enterprise-Agency www.eastbournechamber.co.uk
Eastbourne Sightseeing
tours are back
THE perfect day out for locals and visitors alike,
Eastbourne Sightseeing offers uninterrupted views of
Eastbourne, the South Coast and the renowned South
Downs National Park.
The 15-stop tour features popular spots including
the Lifeboat Museum, Italian Gardens, the Belle Tout
Lighthouse, Beachy Head, Birling Gap, East Dean, and
the town centre.
Tour-goers can explore and admire show-stopping
locations at their own pace during the hop-on, hop-off
tour experience, operating up to every 30 minutes, 7 days a
week until Sunday 2nd November 2025.
There’s something on board for everyone this season.
Sightseers can listen to audio commentary throughout the
tour, while families with younger explorers can enjoy the
brand-new Eastbourne Sightseeing Kids activity pack.
For ages 5 - 11, the exclusive pack includes a whole host
of fun sightseeing themed activities - perfect for taking the
classroom outside this Easter!
Eastbourne Sightseeing offers concessionary tickets for
students and seniors for £10 and family tickets for £28.
Adult tickets are £12, and under 16s can board Eastbourne
Sightseeing for just £6.
No pre-booking is required for the hop-on, hop-off
service, and contactless payments are accepted on
Eastbourne Sighting. All tickets are valid for 24 hours.
Tickets can also be pre-purchased via the Brighton &
Get involved: Nominations
now open to all for the
Eastbourne Business Awards
THE Eastbourne Business Award
celebrate the best businesses in
Eastbourne and the surrounding area.
Whether you are a Chamber member
or not, you’re welcome to put a business
forward for an award.
This year’s awards take place on
10th October at the Winter Garden.
With nominations open, now is the
time to think about getting involved
in the best business community event
in Eastbourne.
To nominate a business, simply scan
the QR code to the right, or head over to
www.eastbournebusinessawards.co.uk
Hove Buses mobile app, where sightseers can track buses
live along the route.
South Coast explorers can also enjoy an Eastbourne
Sightseeing experience included in a 2-day City
Sightseeing Brighton ticket.
For more information, including the Eastbourne
Sightseeing bus route map and timetables, visit
www.buses.co.uk/ess or download the Brighton &
Hove Buses app.
Book today:
Chamber Charity
Golf Day
ONE of the most popular events
in the Chamber’s calendar, the
Charity Golf Day takes place this
year on Friday 16th May, at the
Royal Eastbourne Golf Club.
The annual event sees teams
from businesses across Eastbourne
compete for an array of awards,
whilst raising money for a
chosen charities.
Headline charity this year is the
Children With Cancer Fund with
money raised from a raffle, ticket
entry and the legendary hole-inone
competition.
The prize in said competition is a
brand-new BMW 120 Sport, provided
by Group 1 Hailsham BMW.
Chamber member Mango
Insurance is kindly making the
competition possible through their
generous sponsorship. All you need
to do to be in with a chance of winning
is sign up to the Golf Day, and buy
a ticket to enter the competition.
All proceeds will go to this year’s
chosen charities, including headline
charity Children With Cancer Fund.
To register for the Chamber Golf Day,
head over to www.eastbourneunltd.
co.uk/events or email jill@
eastbournechamber.co.uk
WIN A BMW 120 SPORT
A brand-new BMW 120 Sport is provided by Group 1 Hailsham BMW.
The image is representative and may differ in specification and colour.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 EASTBOURNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE 15
Try the new seven
course tasting
menu at Taj
thebestof Eastbourne
marks 14 years of
championing local businesses
TAJ Indian Kitchen — location
for the Chamber’s sell-out
Curry Night — has launched a
seven-course tasting menu.
Available weeknights, the
menu features a variety of
dishes that showcase the
diversity of cooking in India.
Using traditional ingredients
with a modern twist, the menu
offers a luxury journey through
the colours and flavours of the
Indian Subcontinent.
The menu is available
weeknights at £39 per person
and booking is strongly advised.
To book your table, head over to
www.tajindiankitchen.co.uk
SINCE launching on 22nd February
2011, thebestof Eastbourne
business guide has been dedicated
to supporting and showcasing the
very best businesses in our town.
Over the past 14 years, they have
helped countless local businesses
gain recognition, build their
reputations, and connect with
new customers.
At the heart of thei success is
the power of recommendations.
The best businesses deserve to
be celebrated, and insights from
the local community shine a
light on businesses those that
go above and beyond. As we
thebestof Eastbourne celebrate
this milestone, they’re inviting
business owners and residents
alike to recommend outstanding
local businesses that deserve to be
featured in thebestof Eastbourne
David Ruddle, the driving force behind thebestof Eastbourne
Business Guide.
David Ruddle, the driving force
behind thebestof Eastbourne, said:
“Eastbourne is home to incredible
businesses that make a real
difference. Our role is to give them
the recognition they deserve and
help them grow. After 14 years,
our mission remains the same
— championing local businesses
through trusted recommendations.”
From restaurants to shops and from
theatres to hair dressers, help us
find the hidden gems of Eastbourne
and get them noticed at www.
thebestof.co.uk/local/eastbourne/

16 ADVERTORIAL
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
A D V E R T I S E R P R O M O T I O N
Falconry Photography
Workshops launched
for bird of prey lovers
BUDDING photographers are
being offered the chance to dust off
their cameras after a long winter
and take part in a new series of
workshops designed to develop
their skills and spend time with
some stunning raptors.
Set within the stunning
grounds of Herstmonceux Castle
and Gardens, the Falconry
Photography Workshops are a rare
opportunity to get up close and
personal with birds of prey and
capture some incredible images
at the same time.
These workshops, in association
with East Sussex Falconry,
allow photographers to learn,
or practice their skills through
a series of exercises with the
assistance of an experienced
Photographer and Falconer.
Attendees will be able to capture
both posed/static images and shots
of flying owls, falcons and hawks
in a variety of settings within the
ancient woodland.
The group of no more than ten
attendees will be guided through
each set-up, with advice and support
if needed on camera settings, use of
equipment and best positions to get
some amazing images.
The course is designed for
beginners as tuition through
each section of the day will be
given, but more experienced
photographers are welcome.
Get those batteries charged
and storage cards at the ready, as
you’ll be sure to shoot hundreds
of images at this exciting and
educational experience which is a
perfect gift or a day out to practice
photography techniques in a
controlled environment.
ON THE DAY
On arrival, following a briefing, there
will be a short introduction to the
birds and some time will be set aside
to get the cameras warmed up with
some static images.
You’ll then be introduced to a Harris
Hawk Cedar, who loves nothing but
leading you through the woods on a
Forest Walk whilst he darts between
the trees and swoops down, making
the perfect shot if you’re quick!
Bramble, the Long-Eared Barn Owl
will then slow the pace a little as she
silently glides through the glades or
sits perfectly for a rest on a nearby
branch in the sunlight.
After a break for lunch and to
compare the morning’s work, it will be
time for the pair of stunning Yellow-
Billed Kites to take to the skies as they
soar around waiting for the Falconer to
offer up some food on his fist. Capture
them as they speed in from a distance
and grab the food in a flash.
The day will end with a challenge
to see if you have the skill to capture
Neo, the Lanner Falcon, as he stoops
from a height towards the Lure - a
prize is given to the photographer
who can secure a successful
photo of the stoop!
OTHER WORKSHOPS
Although the first workshop is
designed for beginner photographers,
interested residents can express their
interest on other dates which will soon
be announced for more advanced
photographers and keen youngsters
under 18 years old.
If you cannot attend on the date
below but would like to know about
future dates, just visit the website and
sign up for updates.
For only £135 per person, you can
attend on Sunday 11th May, 2025.
Be quick as workshops are limited
to 10 attendees.
ATTENDEE
REQUIREMENTS
Participants should bring a Digital
SLR-style camera, preferably with
manual controls.
Be over 18 years old and able
to attend as an individual.
Spectators/ guests cannot be
accommodated at this time.
If available, a lens with a zoom
of 200mm minimum is best,
but not essential
Tripods are not necessary
during the workshop, but you may
want to bring a monopod if you
have a heavy lens.
Ability to walk through forest and
woodland for a whole day.
CONTACT AND BOOK
Book your place by scanning
the QR Code, or visiting
www.sussexairimaging.co.uk/
falconry-photographic-workshops/
Alternatively, for more information
you can call 01273 950311.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.newseastbourne APRIL 2025 NEWS 17
Conservatives announced candidates
for Sussex Mayor elections
TIM Loughton, the Conservative
MP for East Worthing & Shoreham
between 1997 and 2024, has
thrown his hat into the ring to be
the Conservative candidate for the
new Mayor of Sussex.
Campaigning under the banner
of ‘Rooted in Sussex, Rooting for
Sussex’, Tim is fighting his campaign
on six key policy areas:
• Taking control of our own
finances: Sussex revenues for
Sussex infrastructure
• Making Sussex a place where
young people can learn well, earn
well and afford to make their
homes closer to home
• Fewer roadworks and more
roads that work
• A joined-up Sussex Skills
programme to Get Sussex Working
and attract inward investment
• More visible police officers
pursuing criminals rather than
Political Correctness
• Valuing our farmers against
Labour’s attacks and protecting
our rich Downland and
coastal environment
The first Mayor of Sussex will be
elected in May 2026. The role will
have powers over the economy,
Tim Laughton
infrastructure, transport, inward
investment, housing and skills and will
take over the functions of the Police
and Crime Commissioner.
For half of his 27 years in
Parliament, Tim served on the
Conservative frontbench, most
notably as Minister for Children and
Young People. For 10 years he was
Deputy Chairman and Chairman of
the influential Home Affairs Select
Committee and chaired All Party
Parliamentary Groups in a wide
range of areas.
Tim launched his campaign with
a video emphasising his roots and
lifelong attachments across the whole
of Sussex. He was born in Eastbourne,
attended The Pells and Priory Schools
in Lewes, grew up and was married in
Alfriston and has lived in West Sussex
and represented a West Sussex
constituency for the last 30 years. His
call to arms to be the Conservative
candidate in the upcoming campaign
is summed up as ‘Rooted in Sussex,
Rooting for Sussex.’
Tim commented: “I have the
experience, skills and record of
public service nationally and locally
to be that strong voice for the County
that I love, and which has been
my home for all my life. This job
will mean competing with metro
mayors in other parts of the country
predominantly led by former Labour
MPs and it needs someone with
extensive experience of navigating
Government, ministers’ offices and
national agencies, as I have for 30
years. This Labour Government
has declared war on so many of
the communities that form the
backbone of Sussex — farmers,
pensioners, small businesses, young
entrepreneurs, the hospitality
industry to name a few.
“We need to be united to fight back.
My roots and experience mean I can
represent and unite all of Sussex,
young and old, east and west, urban
and rural, downland and coastal. This
is the only position that really fires me
up to stay in frontline politics and I
am raring to get back to the campaign
trail and fight for Sussex at the top
table and for Conservative values in
our communities.”
Katy Bourne,
the current
Sussex Police
and Crime
Commissioner
has also
announced
she will be
standing in the
elections next
Katy Bourne
year.
She said: “I will be seeking to ensure
that, under a mayoral model of
police governance, the unique local
identity and character of our police
force is preserved and the public’s
voice in policing will continue to
be strongly articulated across all of
Sussex, including our rural towns
and villages. To this end, I will be
seeking nomination for Mayoral
candidacy in due course.
“My office is already in dialogue
with the Home Office and the
Ministry of Housing, Communities
and Local Government and we fully
expect to be working in collaboration
with our local authorities as the
devolution process moves forward.”
Former MP for
Hastings and
Rye, Sally-Ann
Hart will also
be standing
as part of the
party’s line-up.
She said:
“Devolution
must benefit
Sally-Ann Hart
every part
of Sussex. A strong, decisive and
unapologetic Conservative mayor,
with a clear plan for uniting the
county, can make this work. We need
someone who understands, nurtures
and develops the unique strengths,
and understands and addresses the
challenges, of each part of Sussex,
and who is willing to stand up for
residents and businesses.
“It means fighting for investment in
the places that have been historically
overlooked, ensuring that no town
or village is left behind. If chosen as
the Conservative mayoral candidate,
I will ensure this new Combined
Authority delivers real benefits for
all of Sussex based on practical,
community-focused leadership.
A D V E R T I S E R P R O M O T I O N
Caring for your
loved ones for
almost a decade
RIGHT at Home Eastbourne & Bexhill
opened its doors to clients in 2016, when
it first started delivering home care, also
known as domiciliary care, in Eastbourne
and the surrounding areas.
Since then, the team has grown to over 90
CareGivers and a permanent management
team of six, operating out of their office
in Eastbourne.
Over the years, the company has swelled from
one room to a suite of offices, and the travel
kettle has been replaced with two enormous
tea urns. On any given day, a steady stream
of carers pop in, be it for induction training,
refresher training, team meetings, menopause
support groups, or new applicants being
welcomed for interviews.
Prospective clients and their next of kin
might also come in for a chat. Children, dogs
and even the odd cat visit make sure there is
never a dull moment.
The company offers a wide range of services
that are tailored to the needs and wishes of
each individual. A fundamental aspect of
high-quality home care is a commitment to
ongoing learning.
As well as in-depth face-to-face training, staff
are offered diplomas in social care, with all
office staff holding a Level 5 or Level 4 Diploma
in Adult Health and Social Care. Targeted
training such as Buccal, PEG and nutritional
support is given on a regular basis, and staff
are given the opportunity to attend the Virtual
Dementia Tour bus.
If any client needs additional specialised care,
further training is sourced on demand. Working
with other care professionals builds valuable
relationships in the community, benefits
clients, their next of kins and carers alike.
The company takes great pride in being
the highest-rated home care provider in the
Eastbourne area according to independent
client review site homecare.co.uk, and it has
also received a 5* WorkBuzz Employer Award
for two years running.
Social care has its challenges, but
communication, teamwork and a good sense
of humour help.
For Valentine’s Day, the team raised £170 in
a matter of days for BHF, and for Easter this
year is holding another fundraiser for the
EDAA (Eastbourne Dementia Action Alliance).
Whether anyone dares to dress up as a chicken
in the office remains to be seen, but you can
keep an eye out for eggstra news on Facebook.
To discuss your needs, contact us on
01323 414 658 or visit our wesbite,
www.rightathome.co.uk/eastbourne-and-bexhill
Lightning Fast, Rock Solid
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18 ADVERTORIAL:
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
BY FAYE WAITE
LIFE shapes us in unique ways,
and our experiences — both joyful
and painfu — mould who we are.
But no matter what we’ve been
through, I truly believe we can
overcome anything.
I’m Faye, the founder of Find Flow
with Faye, and my journey to wellness
has been anything but conventional.
Raised by my incredible mum,
who was widowed while pregnant
with me, I grew up watching her
train in holistic therapies. She
began her journey in 2001, and
through her, I learned the power of
alternative healing.
When she met my stepdad, I gained
a father figure who took me in as
his own. Years later, when he was
diagnosed with terminal cancer, my
A D V E R T I S E R P R O M O T I O N
Incredible Journey to
Wellness and Empowerment
mum cared for him with unwavering
love. Losing him was devastating.
I had a breakdown, which led to
my diagnosis of high-functioning
autism—a revelation that finally
helped me understand myself.
Alongside my emotional struggles,
I battled endometriosis from a
young age. As a teenager, the
symptoms including intense pain,
vomiting, IBS, and even fainting were
dismissed as something to ‘control or
stress related.’
After surgery failed to help, I
turned to prescription painkillers
like Tramadol and Codeine. I felt lost
in a cycle of pain and medication,
disconnected from myself. Then,
a doctor suggested something
unexpected: hot yoga. That moment
changed my life.
Through hot yoga, I began to
reclaim my body, mind, and spirit.
The intense physical challenge,
the moving meditation, the ability
to sit with discomfort instead of
numbing it—this practice became
my sanctuary. Over the years,
I’ve explored countless therapies,
including CBT, hypnotherapy,
Bach flower remedies, functional
movement coaching, reiki, and more.
Yet, no matter what, I always come
back to yoga and meditation. These
practices remind me that healing
isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our emotional
and physical responses are deeply
interconnected, and true wellness
requires a holistic approach.
Today, as a mother to a toddler,
navigating a divorce and embracing
the next chapter of my life, I feel
stronger and more excited for
the future than ever. I’ve faced
challenges, but I’ve also found
resilience, community, and joy.
That’s why I created Find Flow with
Faye — to share what I’ve learned
and help others find their own path
to healing too.
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
At Find Flow with Faye, I offer more
than just yoga — I create a space
for you to reconnect with yourself,
whether you’re overcoming physical
pain, navigating mental struggles, or
simply seeking balance.
To build resilience, strengthen both
body and mind, and release tension —
Hot Yoga 26+2 is for you.
To restore harmony in both mind
and body — 1-2-1 Reiki is for you.
To foster connection, self-reflection,
and emotional understanding —
Cacao Circles are for you.
No matter where you are on your
journey, you are not alone. Healing
is possible. Strength is already within
you. And together, we can find flow.
• Hot Yoga — Monday, Wednesday,
and Friday, 6:30-7:30 PM @ 19 St
Street at The Fame Academy
• Women’s Cacao Circle — First
Friday of the month, 8:00-9:30 PM
@ 19 St Street at The Fame Academy
• Cacao Workshops — Held
at Little Chelsea Health Shop
on Sundays (11 AM-1 PM) as
and when scheduled
• Booking — All sessions are
bookable via GymCatch, with the
link available on my website
Join me at FindFlowWithFaye.com
or email me at findflowwithfaye@
gmail.com and let’s move
forward—together.
ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF
CARS AND COMMERCIALS
REPAIRS AND SERVICING
AT COMPETITIVE PRICES
01323 573016
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FINMERE ROAD
EASTBOURNE
BN22 8QL
Located behind Big Tesco

Your local independent
property experts...
Residential Lettings Land New Homes
MEET
YOUR
FRIENDLY
TEAM
PALMYRA PLACE - £725,000-£750,000
This spacious 5-bedroom linked detached house in an exclusive
residential close is within walking distance of the beach and
Sovereign Harbour. It features an open-plan living area, quality
kitchen, sun terrace, southerly garden, luxury en suite master
bedroom, family bathroom, office/study, solid wood doors, and a
garden studio room ideal for entertaining.
COURTLAND ROAD- £489,950
This extended 3-bedroom detached bungalow offers stylish living
with an extended lounge/dining room, a fitted kitchen, and three
double bedrooms, including one with an en suite.
It features a main bathroom with a separate shower, an attic room,
roof terrace with views, a delightful westerly garden, garage, off-road
parking, and convenient location near Polegate High Street.
DAVID SHELTON
ANITA BAKER
MEADOWS ROAD - £465,000
This 3-bedroom detached bungalow, located in a
sought-after Willingdon area, occupies a corner position and
offers spacious living. It features a comfortable lounge with
patio doors, a good-sized kitchen with included appliances,
and a large shower room/wc. Additional highlights include
gas central heating, double glazing, a southerly rear garden
with a patio, a driveway, and garage. The property is offered
with no ongoing chain. Local shops, bus services, and countryside
walks are nearby. Viewing is recommended.
OAKLEAF DRIVE - £395,000
This 3-bedroom semi-detached house, located near
Polegate Primary School, features a spacious kitchen/diner,
a bright lounge with a wood burner, and a downstairs
cloakroom/wc. The first floor includes a modern shower
room/wc and three bedrooms, with the main bedroom
offering a dressing room. Outside, there’s off-road parking,
a southerly rear garden with a summerhouse, and no ongoing
chain. The property is close to local amenities,
The Cuckoo Trail, and Polegate High Street.
DOVER ROAD - £389,950
This extended 2/3-bedroom detached bungalow features
a 90’ southerly rear garden and a superb 20’ x 10’ conservatory.
It offers a separate lounge, kitchen with appliances,
modern shower room/wc, and a master bedroom with fitted
wardrobes. The second bedroom leads to a versatile extra
room, ideal for an office or third bedroom. Additional features
include off-road parking, a long driveway, garage, and
spacious loft. Located near Polegate High Street and local
amenities, viewing is strongly recommended.
FREE VALUATIONS FOR SELLING & RENTING
JOHN STEVENS
SAM BEALE
VICTORIA DRIVE - £375,000
This 4-bedroom semi-detached family house, located in the
favored Old Town area, is within walking distance of several
schools. It offers spacious living with a lounge, separate dining
room, kitchen with appliances, utility room with WC, and
a modern bathroom. Additional features include gas central
heating, double glazing, a pleasant front and rear garden,
driveway, and access to a spacious loft.
The property is conveniently located near bus routes, local
shops, and parks.
BERNHARD GARDENS - £350,000
This 3-bedroom semi-detached family house is located in a
sought-after area, overlooking Polegate Memorial Recreational
Ground with lovely South Downs views. It features a
bright double-aspect lounge/dining room, modern kitchen
and bathroom, and fitted wardrobes in two bedrooms. Additional
features include gas central heating, double glazing, a
pleasant rear garden, a garage, and driveway. Within walking
distance of Polegate High Street, local schools, parks, and
countryside walks, with easy access to transport links.
PADDOCK GARDENS - £349,950
This spacious 2-bedroom semi-detached bungalow is
located on the edge of Wannock, featuring an open-plan
living room and modern kitchen, a sunroom, two double
bedrooms, a shower room, and a superb bathroom. Additional
features include gas central heating, double glazing,
a 50’ rear garden, a garage, and views of the South Downs.
With no ongoing chain, it’s within walking distance to bus
services, shops, and Polegate High Street, offering access to
nearby countryside walks.
SAMUEL TOWNSEND
48 HIGH STREET, POLEGATE, BN26 6AG
CALL 01323 483348 or visit archerandpartners.com

20 TRAVEL
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Celebrity Cruise Ship Apex:
A Luxurious Voyage at Sea
BY TRAVEL EDITOR,
DAVID POWELL
MINI cruises from the UK are very
popular and if you haven’t cruised
before a great way to see what
cruising is all about!
My wife and I embarked on such
a cruise from Southampton visiting
Zeebrugge (for Bruges) and then right
into the heart of Amsterdam onboard
Celebrity Apex.
The Celebrity Apex ship is one of
the Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series. It
launched in 2020, and this 130,818-ton
vessel accommodates approximately
2,910 passengers offering an elegant,
high-end experience with cuttingedge
design, diverse dining options,
and superb entertainment. With
its innovative spaces, including the
Magic Carpet and Infinite Veranda
staterooms, Celebrity Apex redefines
the traditional cruise experience,
blending contemporary luxury with a
laid-back, sophisticated atmosphere.
SHIP DESIGN AND
ATMOSPHERE
The ship boasts a sleek, modern
aesthetic with a focus on open spaces,
natural light, and great design.
The ship interiors were designed
by Kelly Hoppen, a renowned
British designer known for her
contemporary and inviting style.
The neutral colour palette — blues,
greys, and soft earth tones — gives the
ship a boutique hotel feel. One of the
most striking features is the Magic
Carpet, a cantilevered platform that
moves up and down the ship’s
exterior, serving different purposes
at different levels. It transforms into
an al fresco dining area, a lounge, or
an embarkation platform, depending
on its position. This innovation not
only adds to the ship’s futuristic
look but also enhances the overall
passenger experience.
The Resort Deck, featuring the
main pool, martini glass-shaped hot
tubs, and a solarium, is a beautifully
designed space with plenty of room.
The Rooftop Garden, a lush, plantfilled
retreat, was one of our favourite
places to relax in the sun, perfect for
enjoying cocktails!
THE INFINITE VERANDA
AND SUITES
Celebrity Apex’s accommodations
set a new standard for cruise
ship cabins. The most notable
innovation is the Infinite Veranda
staterooms, which replace
traditional balconies with floorto-ceiling
glass doors that can
be opened at the touch of a
button, essentially merging the
balcony with the cabin’s interior.
This design creates more space
and creates an indoor-outdoor
experience, we loved it!
For those seeking a more exclusive
experience, The Retreat offers
suite guests a private, all-inclusive
experience with personalised
butler service, a private restaurant
(Luminae), and a secluded sundeck.
DINING
Dining on Celebrity Apex is a cruise
highlight, with 29 restaurants,
bars, and lounges offering a wide
selection of cuisine.
The ship features four
complimentary main dining rooms—
Normandie, Tuscan, Cosmopolitan,
and Cyprus—each with a distinct
theme and speciality dishes. Instead
of a traditional single main dining
room, this setup offers more variety
and a restaurant-like atmosphere.
The Oceanview Café is the
buffet area which provides a vast
selection of food. Room service is
also available 24/7
The Spa offers an impressive range
of treatments, including a seaweed
wrap, cryotherapy facials, and a
thermal suite with steam rooms
and saunas. The Fitness Centre
is fully equipped with Peloton
bikes, yoga classes, and personal
training options.
Conclusion: From my initial
booking which I made over the phone
to sailing onboard, Celebrity Apex
offered a friendly and professional
cruising experience. From restaurant
waiters to housekeeping and
concierge staff, we found the service
exceptionally good.
With its stunning design and
unique accommodations to
gourmet dining and high-tech
entertainment, Apex offers a topof-the-range
cruise experience.
Whilst it may not be the best fit for
families with young children, it is
perfect for travellers looking for a
sophisticated and relaxed voyage
whilst discovering a great choice of
worldwide destinations.
For more information visit
www.CelebrityCruises.com
ON YOUR BIKE with Ian Hollidge
SADDLE UP FOR SUSSEX SPRING RIDES
APRIL is the time when flowers start
to bloom and one can bling up and
bring out that bike which has been in
winter hibernation.
There is nothing better than joining
a group ride through our wonderful
Sussex coast and countryside. Cycling
for fun and fitness is nothing new.
Pictured are a bunch of happy cyclists
from various groups enjoying the
recreation of Bexhill Wheelers 1949
Ashburnham ride stopping at Brown
Bread Street. Members from 1066
Cycle Club can be spotted in the picture
with the building much the same
since it was built.
Fortunately, there are many cyclefriendly
clubs to help you on your way
with group rides. Bexhill Wheelers meet
all year every Thursday at 10am on De
La Warr Pavilion’s South Terrace for our
regular weekly ride. Here are some other
local rides available this April.
Eastbourne Bespoke are organising
an A27 cycle path ride on 12th April.
Starting at 10.30 from Towner Gallery
Eastbourne along the National Cycle
Network routes 21 & 2 going to the
newly opened Steamworks pub at Glyne
railway station. The joy of these events
they are near train stations and from
experience operators are very helpful in
allowing bicycles to travel.
This will give the opportunity for some
to see our wonderful countryside away
from traffic with gentle exercise, lookout
for the meerkats at Drusillars. Anyone
can turn up and join in and there is no
need to make contact first.
Hastings Urban Bikes is organising
another family-friendly Kidical mass
ride on Saturday 26th April. Starting
10am at Lower Lawns, Alexandra Park,
a 2.7 mile ride taking about 40 minutes.
Kidical Mass is a worldwide movement
for everyone aged 0-100 to encourage
use of the public highway in a colourful
way using sustainable transport. This is
not an anti-car protest group but being
positive about using bicycles for short
journeys. HUB are on social media and
can be found by a simple online search.
The big one is Sunday 27th April
Senlac St. Leonards Rotary Club’s annual
On-Yer-Bike Castle Cycle Challenge.
Options are 25, 40 or 75 miles taking
in Hastings, Pevensey, Herstmonceaux
Castles and out to Seaford for the really
fit and adventurous.
This is a ride through history with
William the Conqueror’s taking over and
rebuilding the Roman’s Pevensey Castle
a 270m x 170m perimeter stone wall
with 10m towers built in AD290. Soon
after the Pevensey landings, William
built an earth base, wooden keep and
palisade wall at Hastings which was
fortified with stone by 1070.
This is a ride through English history
and all for charity. On Hastings seafront,
we pass the 1875 marble statue of the
dying King Harold being held by his first
wife Edith on the battlefield, oh how
different our Country would be if the
battle had gone the other way.
Also, look out for the Fossil Tree
artwork installed by Sustrans, can
you follow the story and why it
was placed there?
One of the best ways to find a cycle
group is to go Cycling UK’s website and
put in your postcode in the find a local
club. You will see contact details of all
the local groups.
Happy Wheeling. Ian Hollidge &
Bexhill Wheelers.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 REGULARS 21
EASTBOURNE BID (BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT) with Luke Johnson, Operations Manager
EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR YOUR
EASTBOURNE TOWN CENTRE!
AS a local lad who has
lived in Eastbourne his
whole life, it brings me
great pleasure to talk
about the fantastic
transformation our
town centre will be
Luke Johnson going through in the
coming months.
Through extensive lobbying and
funding bid submissions, our town
centre has secured multi-million-pound
investments for both the Terminus
Road pedestrian precinct upgrades and
levelling up project in Victoria Place —
both of which will greatly improve our
public realms and create fantastic new
spaces for both locals and visitors to our
town alike to enjoy.
These schemes have been developed
by East Sussex County Council, who have
consulted with the Eastbourne BID and
other stakeholders in the town.
A NEW VISION FOR
OUR HIGH STREET
I’m pleased to share with you the first
visuals and artists’ impressions of our
soon-to-be redeveloped pedestrian
precinct. This development will see
the current Terminus Road precinct
receive much-needed upgrades, as well
as creating a new pedestrian space
between Bolton Road and Langney
Road, making our high street more
accessible for the public in the process.
These works are the result of plans
put forward and funded by East Sussex
County Council and have been a long time
coming. The upgrades will see the current
brickwork replaced with new block
pavers, new seating introduced, new
infrastructure for seasonal events, new
planters and trees, and new tidy bins to
help keep our high street looking clean.
The scheme will also see a new
road surface laid in Bolton Road and
a new traffic flow system introduced
for Langney Road.
Given the current condition of the
paving in the precinct, these upgrades
are much needed and will be crucial in
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ensuring our Town Centre continues
to thrive in the future. The newly
upgraded public realm will create a
clean and safe space for shoppers to
enjoy whilst providing opportunities for
local events to take place in the heart of
the Town Centre.
The work will start later this year
in June and will be the next step in
delivering on the vision to create a fully
pedestrianised Terminus Road all the way
from the station to the seafront.
VICTORIA PLACE
UPDATES
Last month, I was able to provide the
exciting news that Victoria Place is
undergoing an extensive transformation
thanks to the UK Government’s levelling
up funding.
The main scheme will be kicking off on
the 31st of March, with the initial works
seeing the grand parade entrance to
Victoria Place redeveloped and Terminus
Road being levelled out and repaved.
Beautification works will then begin
to take place later in the year, with
brand-new covered seating areas being
introduced, as well as new lighting and
greenery to bring up the overall aesthetic
of the street.
Whilst the works are ongoing, it’s
absolutely crucial that our town
continues to support the fantastic array
of businesses in the street, who will all
be very much staying open whilst the
work goes on! Victoria Place is a
wonderful mix of restaurants and
independent retailers, offering
fantastic food and unique gifts to
suit every taste.
We are working really closely with the
businesses in the area to remind residents
that the street remains open, and with
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Visit Eastbourne, we have developed
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the details of the brilliant businesses as
well as special offers.
ARE YOU IN THE MOOD
FOR SOME EXCITING
NIGHTLIFE THIS SPRING?
Eastbourne Cocktail Club and The
Bear Club are kicking off spring with
something different….and this event is
set to be huge!
On Saturday 5th April, Eastbourne’s
newest and liveliest event planner,
Shifty Events, is taking over with
After Hours: A House Event that is
sure to be a sell-out! Elliot Crawford
will be on the decks, bringing proper
house energy and vibes until the early
hours. The bars will be transformed to
bring you an atmosphere that matches
the music, creating a unique night in
a unique venue!
The event is ticket only, so make
sure you grab yours now while you
still can — https://www.skiddle.com/
whats-on/Eastbourne/The-Bear-Club/
After-Hours-House-Night-with-Elliot-
Crawford/40663319/
18+ only. ID will be required.
You could be eligible under
EC04 Flex if you live in a property
that requires energy efficiency
upgrades and you have a combined
gross income under £31k or:
A person in your household has a severe
or long-term health condition that
is adversely affected by living in a cold
home and is due to one of the
following: a cardiovascular condition,
a respiratory disease, limited mobility
or immunosuppression.
There are various other criteria that
Local Authorities can use to identify
low-income, vulnerable and fuel-poor
households.
Visit ofgem.gov.uk for more
information.

22 REGULARS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
NEWS FROM YOUR LIBERAL DEMOCRAT MP
JOSH BABARINDE
Supporting the town when it matters
ANOTHER month gone by, another
month of rolling up my sleeves
and getting stuck in to fight
for Eastbourne.
I’ve been working hard to ensure
local voices are heard and that real
progress is made on key issues
affecting our town.
WATER OUTAGES AND
COMPENSATION
LAST month thousands of residents
were left without properly running
water at home due to a burst water
main. Some schools were forced
to close, meaning that parents,
guardians, and carers had to
unexpectedly take time off work,
students missed valuable lessons
during a critical period for GCSE
preparation, and local businesses
saw their takings hit.
I successfully lobbied for a water
bottle station to be set up in Langney
as Eastbourne Borough Football Club,
and went down during the evening
to distribute water to families who
desperately needed it.
Given the scale of disruption and
with the immediate emergency of the
recent water outages now addressed,
I have written to the CEO of South
East Water to demand compensation
for affected residents, businesses,
and institutions. This is the least
they can do, particularly given the
rising water bills that households are
already facing.
In response, South East Water
have confirmed to me that they are
reviewing the prospect of paying
out compensation and will share the
outcome with me in the coming days.
I will update you when I have a full
answer pending their review.
Campaigning against proposed
Linden Court closure
The fight to save Linden
KNOW YOUR GARDEN
By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden
Court continues.
In February, Conservative
councillors on East Sussex County
Council voted to close the essential
Eastbourne centre for people with
learning disabilities.
Campaigning by brave local
families, who I’ve been proud to
stand with, stopped this decision in
its tracks by getting a special Scrutiny
Committee of councillors to ‘call in’ the
cruel decision.
Ahead of the committee meeting, I
held a briefing between many Scrutiny
Committee members and families
of those who use Linden Court to
arm them with what they needed to
formally challenge the cruel move.
This step was successful; the
committee voted to refer the decision
back to the decision-makers at East
Sussex County Council, urging them
to think again. I’ll keep fighting to
protect Linden Court.
I am also fighting against the
Labour Government’s cuts to
disability benefits such as Personal
Independence Payments (PIP), which
will push many people with disabilities
into extreme hardship, together with
their carers given the knock-on this
could have on Carer’s Allowance.
O my delicious April, never cease, to weep and smile at once! — Alfred Austin, Savonarola: A Tragedy, 1881
SUPPORTING WASPI
WOMEN IN PARLIAMENT
IN a Parliamentary debate, I spoke
up for Eastbourne’s WASPI women
(Women Against State Pension
Inequality), born in the 1950s,
who were let down by successive
Governments after an increase to
the state pension age from 60 to 65
(then 66) was implemented without
proper communication or notice.
As a result, these women, many
of whom had worked for decades
and paid into the system in good
faith, found their retirement plans
shattered, with little time to adjust.
This scandal has left many women
in financial hardship, forced to
continue working or unable to
retire with dignity.
I shared the story of Eastbournian
Yvonne, who said to me that she was
offered a slightly early retirement and
accepted the offer after carefully doing
all the sums to make sure her finances
stacked up. Only after everything was
signed and settled did she discover that
the months she thought she’d have
to wait were now changed into many
years. This meant having to find work
for longer than she expected to and
giving up the plans she had for her
retirement with her husband.
Yvonne’s experience is one of over 3
million women born in the 1950s who
were affected by this change.
Compensation is not just a
political issue; in my view, it is a
moral obligation.
That’s why I — together with my
Liberal Democrat colleagues — will
continue to urge the Government to
act on the ombudsman’s findings and
U-turn on their refusal to provide fair
compensation to the WASPI women.
I am proud to stand alongside
WASPI women like Angela Boas
in Eastbourne to continue fighting
for the justice that WASPI women
need and deserve.
As we continue the year there is
much to look forward to. To keep up
to date with my happenings across
Eastbourne and Westminster, feel free
to sign up to my Newsletter here —
http://www.josh.org.uk/updates
If I can help you with anything,
please email me on josh.babarinde.
mp@parliament.uk or call my office
on 01323 733030.
OPEN EVERY WED & SAT UNTIL 22 OCT
For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk
and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden
The month of April is traditionally a
time for showers and sunshine, the
ideal combination for our plants and,
therefore, time to get weeding! I also
think this is an apt month to consider
what lies ahead and how we can make
the most of the precious resource that
is rainwater.
Our mains tap water in the UK is of
good quality, but plants don’t need
perfectly clean water. As gardeners, we
can help to avoid hosepipe bans in the
future by using our water resources
wisely. A significant amount of energy
and treatment are used to provide safe
water to our homes, so using stored
rainwater or grey water in your garden
also lowers your carbon emissions.
Rest assured, using mains water isn’t
ideal anyway. There are so many good
things that Nature provides within rain
and so consider the following:
Rain is beneficial to plants because
it provides them with pure, soft water,
free of the chemicals and salts found in
tap water, which can build up in the soil
and harm plant growth.
Rainwater has a natural pH of around
seven, which is the ideal pH for most
plants to thrive, and it also contains
nitrates, a crucial form of nitrogen for
Tulipa ‘Purple Prince’. Photo John Glover
plant growth, encouraging lush leafy
plants to thrive.
Rainwater helps flush out excess
salts and minerals that can build up
in the soil, especially in potted plants,
promoting healthy soil and plant growth.
It is, therefore, much better for your
houseplant collection than tap water.
In terms of feeding your plants, you
are actually giving them food as well as
water if you use rainwater. Rainwater
helps unlock and make available
micro-nutrients and minerals already
present in the soil, allowing plants to
readily absorb them.
So, now you know the benefits of
watering your precious plants with
collected rainwater, let us consider
when our plants really need it.
Houseplants require regular watering
indoors, but in a month or so, all your
houseplants can be carefully placed in a
New hedge. Photo John Glover
sheltered spot outside for their summer
holiday. Hopefully, they will receive
summer showers (rather than a deluge),
which will really improve their health
as rainwater washes away dust and
debris from plant leaves, clearing their
pores (stomata) and improving their
ability to take in CO2 and nutrients for
photosynthesis. Houseplants can get
incredibly dusty.
Plants need the most water in hot, dry
and windy weather, which is usually
when water companies are least able
to meet demand. Plants are most
vulnerable to shortages of water when
they are first planted and so keep a close
eye on your cherished purchases once
you have planted them in the ground or
in containers. This particularly applies
to bare-root woody stock that you put
in during the dormant season, which is
incredibly susceptible to a dry spring
and summer when their roots have not
yet established into the deeper, moister
layers of soil.
Check your newly planted shrubs,
trees, herbaceous perennials and
seedlings regularly. If your soil is in
good health and you regularly apply
organic material as a mulch, then your
established plants will need no further
watering. In fact, leaving them to search
for water for themselves will encourage
a good deep root system that is capable
of withstanding drought.
Annuals are plants that complete their
life cycle in one growing season. They
are generally easy to grow from seed
or can be bought as young plants from
nurseries and garden centres. These
will all need watering to be managed
carefully until their roots are established.
Your vegetable plot is the one area
where it is vital not to stint on irrigation.
Try to ensure that you have a water
butt installed on any nearby shed or
outbuilding, and consider that, even in
dry districts, 24,000 litres (5280 gallons
or 150 water butts) could be collected
from the roof each year.
Today, confidence in global climate
models has increased, and we now know
that extreme weather events are the
conditions most likely to be experienced
by the UK. The impact of these events,
such as flash flooding and periods of
drought, is likely to be compounded by
increased housing pressure, meaning
that gardens will become more critical
in providing services formerly delivered
by the natural environment — services
such as flood alleviation, carbon
sequestration and the provision of
habitats for wildlife — that will be lost
to development.
Water resources in the UK are
under pressure from climate change
and population growth. Gardeners
should, therefore, use mains water as
sparingly as they can. Let us all set
a good example to our neighbours,
fellow allotment holders, children and
grandchildren by cherishing the water
that Nature so kindly provides.
Enjoy your gardens in April.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne APRIL 2025 REGULARS 23
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24 NEWS
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
FRIENDS OF EASTBOURNE HOSPITAL
SUPPORTING THE DGH AND THE COMMUNITY
TO put the history of the Friends of
Eastbourne Hospital into context, the
charity as we know it now, began its
service to Eastbourne in the same
year that Queen Elizabeth II acceded
to the throne.
Originally formed as the Patients’
Association in 1948, its purpose was
to fund the supplementary costs of
hospital staff and patients that NHS
information regarding cancer services.
Anybody interested in finding out more
about volunteering is warmly invited
to get in touch.
And that’s just what goes on inside
the hospital! The Friends also fundraise
across a calendar of events which,
without volunteers, could not happen.
These include our Open Garden season
which spans the summer months and
resources could not cover. In 1952,
Friends Chairman, Dr Harry Walmsley, left, at the
an Annual Art Exhibition in the autumn,
the year of the Queen’s accession, the A small selection of the Friends volunteers who
opening of the new cardiac catheter labs at the DGH,
as well as ad hoc events such as dining
charity was renamed as The Friends
give up their time to help in the Main Friends Shop
to which the Friends donated £400k of equipment
evenings, charity football days, wine
of the Eastbourne Hospitals – evolving
over time to just Friends of Eastbourne
Hospital when Eastbourne’s original
eight hospitals eventually consolidated
into the single DGH, which serves
the community now.
Almost eighty years (and a further
coronation) later, the Friends of
Eastbourne Hospital is still doing the
work it set out to do, assisted by essential
volunteers without whom the charity
simply could not exist.
In essence, the Friends of Eastbourne
Hospital responds to bids from staff and
departments of the DGH for equipment
that East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust
would not otherwise be able to provide.
This could be additional pieces of
existing equipment which will result in
more patients being seen more quickly,
items to make the day-to-day running
of a ward more manageable, or smaller
spending on improvements for staff,
patients or visitors.
Each year, however, the Friends of
Eastbourne Hospital agrees a Major
Project for the year. Major Projects in
recent years have included £500k for
a new Da Vinci Robot for Urological
Surgery, £400k to equip the new cardiac
catheter labs of the DGH, and £500k for
a nuclear medicine gamma camera for
use in Radiology.
In 2025, the Friends’ Major Project
will be to complete a million-pound
project by raising the final £250k.
This £1 million will be donated to the
new Sussex Surgical Centre at the
DGH, and will be used to purchase
equipment for the centre, plus its new
Endoscopy Development.
Anyone who wishes to find out more
about this particular new build is very
welcome to attend a free talk hosted by
the Friends at 7pm on Weds 30 April, in
which we will discuss what this unit will
mean for the DGH and for Eastbourne.
We ask that people book their free place
by contacting the Friends Office on 01323
749503 / esh-tr.friendsdgh@nhs.net
From the proud notation in 1956 that
a total of £1,000 had been raised to
gift to the hospitals across the year, to
our biggest ever project in 2015 which
raised £1 million for the DGH’s first Da
Vinci surgical robot (its successor in
2022 being a requirement due to the
first having received so much use that
it needed replacing), it is recorded that
over £18 million in total has been raised
over our 70+ years
Volunteers are the lifeblood of the
charity. Regular volunteering roles within
the Friends include shifts in the Friends
Shop which sells a variety of items,
including food and drinks. The same
role, on a smaller scale, is performed
by volunteers who man the corner
shop, located near the staff entrance
of the hospital.
Taking items from the shop to the
hospital’s wards and departments is
the job of the trolley volunteers who
regularly do what we’re told is a 2-mile
round trip, visiting staff and patients who
maybe can’t get to the shop themselves.
The Friends’ fourth outlet at the DGH
is in the Radiotherapy entrance, where
volunteers serve drinks and snacks in
the quiet Friends café. Not only a café,
this area serves as a Macmillan Hub,
so volunteers here are able to support
either patients, or their friends and
families, who may be seeking support or
tastings and many more. From car
parking to serving teas and coffees (or
something stronger!) it takes an entire
team to run events.
The Friends are also extremely grateful
for donations which come in from all
corners of the community, whether from
supporters at our external fundraising
events, those who organise their own
fundraisers, thoughtful donations from
community groups or individuals, and
generous legacies from those who
remember the Friends in their will.
We look forward to keeping you
updated on what the Friends are getting
up to, as well as news from the DGH
itself. Get in touch directly, or for further
information, visit the Friends website
(www.friendsdgh.org.uk)! We thank
all those who support the Friends in
any way they can.
LAURIE’S POEM CORNER
We are now in April already, and the clocks have gone forward giving more light in
the evenings, Daffodils have been out for a while and Spring is certainly in the air
with all the proverbial “birds and bees”very active in their mating season. Nice for
them, and to be heard as many of us humans apparently think more romantically
this time of year too, so there you go!
To that end, and I admit not a coincidence, as my poem offering is a romantic
love theme which just happens to be the “lead” poem in my 15th book very recently published. This
book entitled “Poetic Passions” has eighty of my most popular romance section poems with some
new ones freshly written, and with of course my usual twist or two, and maybe even three or more,
thus please enjoy.
We are attracted to who we’re looking at
But the big worry is will they like us?
For nobody wants to fail or be rejected
So maybe its best not to cause a fuss.
But faint heart never won a fair lady
As that old sage-like saying says,
So therein lies your fragile dilemma
To pass or possibly have happy days.
LEAP OF LOVE
Thus its that make your mind up time
Or the subject of attraction might go,
Meaning if you don’t make a move soon
There’ll be frustration of never to know
If you would fail or forever walk tall
And feel you can touch the sky above.
So gather yourself with determination
Of commitment for that leap of love.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE LICENSING ACT 2003 (PREMISES LICENCES AND CLUB
PREMISES CERTIFICATES) REGULATIONS 2005
Regulation 25 Advertisement. TO : WHOM IT MAY CONCERN
We, EASTBOURNE UNIT 117 OF THE SEA CADET CORPS, do hereby serve notice on 26th MARCH 2025
that it is our intention to apply to Eastbourne Borough Council for the grant of a new premises licence
to use or permit the use of premises known as:
Sea Cadet Headquarters, Royal Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 7LA for the following licensable
activities: 1, Plays, 2, Recorded Music, 3, Films, 4, Performances of dance, 5, Indoor sporting events,
6, Late night refreshment, 7, Live Music, 8, Supply of alcohol on the premises
Between the standard hours of: 09:00-23:00 Monday to Thursday, 09:00-00:00 Friday to
Saturday and 09:00-23:00 Sunday.
Any person who desires to make a representation to the grant should send a brief written statement of the grounds
of his/her objection to licensing@lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk or Licensing Team Eastbourne Town Hall Grove Road
Eastbourne BN21 4UG no later than midnight on 23rd APRIL 2025
The register and records of applications may be viewed at the above council office during normal office hours;
summaries are available via www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk.
It is an offence knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in connection with an application, the maximum
penalty for which a person is liable on summary conviction is an unlimited fine.
PUBLISHED ON 1 APRIL 2025
Therefore you pause to try to assess
If your overture will be well received,
But this tricky situation is rarely easy
And previously you had felt aggrieved,
If signs that you read were incorrect
And you felt embarrassed and not nice,
So it isn’t too surprising if you hesitate
To consider any move or think twice.
Now take the famous small step for man
And approach the focus of your desire,
Looking to see if they’ve noticed you
With a body shaking and heart on fire.
Where has this come from you ponder?
As you feel excited but doubt yourself,
But that lovely subject of desire smiles
So now you won’t be left on the shelf.
To purchase Laurie’s books, visit www.lauriewilkinson.com

WIN WIN WIN
A FAMILY VIP WEEKEND PASS AND SEE TOP LIVE ACTS IN BRIGHTON
PRIZE WORTH
£360
FOODIES FESTIVAL will visit Preston Park, Brighton, from
3rd – 5th May across the Bank Holiday Weekend, serving up
a star-studded line-up of TV, celebrity and award-winning
chefs, and chart-topping music stars, including Pixie Lott,
Scouting For Girls and The Wanted 2.0 with Max George and
Siva Kaneswaren.
This VIP Weekend Family Pass (2 adults & 2 children),
worth £360, will get you fast-track entry, private bar with
waiter service, a glass of fizz, priority tickets to theatre
tickets, private toilets, refreshments and you’ll get to see
Pixie Lott perform some of her popular hit songs. See how
to enter the raffle at the bottom of this page.
Known as Gastro-Glastonbury, the three-day event at
Preston Park in Brighton on 3rd, 4th and 5th May, will feature
live cooking demonstrations from TV celebrities and chefs
drawn from the ranks of MasterChef, Great British Bake Off
and Great British Menu, plus many of the region’s most highly
acclaimed Michelin and award-winning chefs.
Early star announcements in the live theatres include: Great
British Bake Off winner, Matty Edgell, MasterChef champions,
Chariya Khattiyot, Tom Rhodes and Dhruv Baker, MasterChef:
The Professionals winner, Steven Edwards and 2024
finalist, Ritchie Stainsby, television personality and Michelin
starred chef, Atul Kochhar, and Channel 4 bread expert, Jack
Sturgess.
Highly acclaimed award-winning regional chefs, include:
Will Dennard and Jack Southern from Med, named Best
Local Restaurant in the South East, Head Chef, Peter Dantanus,
from Burnt Orange Restaurant, Head Chef Mark Charker,
from The Jolly Tanners, Chef-Patron Johnny Stanford, from
Tern in Worthing, Head Chef, Oscar Kirkpatrick, from Riddle
and Finns and Chef-Patron, Lee Parsons, from The Parsons
Table, Arundel.
SPECIAL OFFER:
BUY FIVE TICKETS
AND GET FIVE
ABSOLUTELY
FREE
LIVE
PIXIE LOTT
Headlining the music stage: Multi-platinum selling festival
favourites, Scouting For Girls, performing a set full of their
many top 40 hits. The Wanted 2.0 with Max George and Siva
Kaneswaren present the next chapter in the history of The
Wanted, one of Britain’s biggest-ever pop bands, achieving
SCAN THIS QR CODE TO ENTER
JUST £1 PER TICKET
Or, visit this URL to enter online:
https://raffall.com/regionalmediagroup
FOR FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS PLEASE SEE THE ABOVE URL.
CLOSING DATE 15TH APRIL AT MIDNIGHT. OVER 18S ONLY.
over 20 million record sales worldwide and topping the
charts multiple times. And, Pixie Lott, who’s notched up 3
number 1 hits, secured four Brit nominations and won two
MTV EMA awards. Pixie has also judged The Voice Kids and
appeared as a guest judge on The X Factor.
Visitors will enjoy a jam-packed schedule in the interactive
live theatres. In the Chef’s Theatre, celebrities will create their
signature dishes and share new tips and tricks, whilst in the
Cake & Desserts Theatre, patisserie chefs and star bakers
whip up showstoppers and offer tempting sweet treats. In
the Kids Cookery School, Foodies SuperChefs make cooking
fun, helping younger guests to prepare delicious food which
they can take away and enjoy.
Masterclasses in the Drinks Theatre include tutored Champagne,
Beer, Cider, Cocktail and Wine-tasting with experts
including BBC and ITV presenters, Tom Surgey and Joe
Wadsack
Browse the latest food trends in the Shopping Village, meet
local producers in the Artisan Market and taste exotic and
unusual new dishes in the Feasting Tent – which features a
mouth-watering range of street food and delicacies from all
four corners of the globe.
Preston Park, Brighton, 3rd, 4th, 5th May 2025.
Earlybird tickets from £6 (child) and £21 (adult).
Under 6 go free . foodiesfestival.com

26 MOTORING
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Tesla toughest on
tyres in Southeast
EXCLUSIVE analysis by the UK’s
leading automotive servicing and
repair company has revealed
the cars which are most likely to
wear tyres quickly and need more
frequent changes.
The data from Kwik Fit, which fits
more tyres to the nation’s cars than
any other company, reveals which
car models are disproportionately
likely to need new tyres in every
area of Britain.
The analysis shows that this varies
from area to area, indicating that
driving conditions in certain parts of
the country seem tougher on some
models than others. However, one
car tops the list in significantly more
locations than any other vehicle —
the Tesla Model 3.
More than two million British car
owners take their vehicles to Kwik Fit
centres each year, including electric
(EVs) and hybrids as well as petrol
and diesel models.
The company’s analysts
looked at which models were
disproportionately more likely to be
brought in for tyre changes than the
average car in every area of Great
Britain and calculated the index
figure for each model.
From its Maintenance Index 2025,
Kwik Fit has ranked the models by
the number of locations in which
they were most likely to have
had tyre changes.
The Kwik Fit ranking is led by the
Tesla Model 3, which topped the table
in 54 areas across Britain, including
the southeast. This is more than
twice as many as the model family in
second place, the Citroën Berlingo,
which comes top in 24 locations.
In third place is another Tesla, the
Model Y (16 areas), followed by the
Mercedes CLA (9 areas). The top six is
completed by the BMW 4 series and
Tesla’s Model 3 is tough on tyres
the Volvo XC40 (both with 7).
The 54 locations where the Tesla
Model 3 tops the table cover a wide
variety of areas, ranging from
Aberdeenshire to Devon. It sees
its highest score in the Kwik Fit
Maintenance Index in Enfield, where
it has an index figure of 9.4. In fact,
across London it tops the chart in
14 out of the capital’s 32 boroughs
and is in the top three places in
a further seven.
The Citroën Berlingo comes top
in areas from Argyll and Bute to
Wiltshire, with its highest index
figure of 9.2 being seen in Medway.
Intriguingly, despite being top of the
table in 24 areas of the UK, the model
doesn’t appear in the top three in any
of the London boroughs.
When all the models from each
manufacturer are combined, it can
be seen that five marques account for
the vehicles most disproportionately
needing new tyres in four fifths of
the country (80% of areas). Tesla and
Citroen remain in first and second
place in this combined table, but
BMW takes the third position with a
range of model families contributing
to its score, namely the 2 and 4 series,
as well as the X1, X3 and X5.
Škoda marks 90 years since
entering production
Autoglym launches
experience for car
care enthusiasts
NINETY years ago, Škoda Auto
began production of the Superb at
its Mladá Boleslav plant.
The model quickly became
synonymous with a comfortable,
refined, and dynamic
driving experience, even on
poor road surfaces.
It impressed with its spacious interior
— offering seating for up to seven
passengers — generous equipment,
and outstanding craftsmanship.
Production continued until 1949.
In the spring of 1934, Škoda
introduced a new generation of
vehicles featuring a backbone chassis
frame and independent wheel
suspension. By the October of that
year, the company had decided to
name its flagship model ‘Superb’,
catering to the most demanding
customers. Series production
commenced in Mladá Boleslav
in March 1935.
The first model, the Škoda 640
Superb, was powered by a six-cylinder
engine producing 55 hp (40.5 kW).
Right from the start, the Superb
featured hydraulic brakes and a
state-of-the-art 12V electrical system.
The highlight of the range was a 96
hp (70.7 kW) 4.0-litre V8 engine.
Offering generous space for up to
seven passengers and their luggage,
the Superb was available with various
wheelbase lengths and body styles,
including open-top and bespoke
designs. By the time production
ended in 1949, approximately 890
passenger cars and 1,630 military
derivatives had been built — including
a unique 4×4 version.
The Superb reflects Škoda’s ongoing
transformation over its 130-year
history. After a 50-year hiatus, the
name was revived in September
2001 with the introduction of the first
modern-generation Škoda Superb.
This saloon offered exceptional
interior space and came with a range
of engines producing between 85
kW and 142 kW (193 hp), including
a range topping 2.8-litre V6 with
Tiptronic automatic transmission and
bi-xenon headlights for enhanced
comfort and safety.
Subsequent generations, launched in
2008, 2015, and most recently in 2023,
further developed the Superb’s legacy.
The second generation introduced a
more practical Hatch and, for the first
time, an Estate version, offering more
powerful yet efficient powertrains
and extensive standard equipment.
The third generation continued this
trajectory, integrating advanced
technologies and innovative design.
The Superb’s popularity has grown
significantly across generations. The
first modern generation, produced
from 2001 to 2008, saw 137,000 units
sold. Its successor, introduced in 2008
and available for the first time as both a
saloon and an Estate, achieved 618,000
sales, with 65% of customers opting
for the saloon. The third generation,
launched in 2015, continued this strong
growth course, with 805,000 units sold
— 56% of which were Estate models.
Now in its fourth modern generation,
the Superb continues to set new
benchmarks. Customers can choose
between Hatch and Estate body styles,
with petrol, diesel, mild-hybrid, and
plug-in hybrid powertrains and more
than 65,000 have been sold at this time.
The latest plug-in hybrid models offer
an electric range of more than 75 miles
(WLTP). Equipped with cutting-edge
technologies, sustainable materials,
and smart solutions like Smart Dials,
the new Superb is designed for
modern mobility.
AUTOGLYM, the UK’s largest
car care brand, has launched
a new car care experience day
aimed at helping improve the
knowledge and detailing skills of
amateur enthusiasts.
Delegates will be taught in
Autoglym’s new state-of-the-art,
self-contained indoor training
facility at its headquarters
in Letchworth Garden City,
Hertfordshire, which is fully
equipped with advanced wash
bay facilities, bespoke classrooms
and top-of-the-range tools,
equipment and lighting.
To create this new course full of
top tips, Autoglym has assembled
its team of experts with over 100
years of combined experience in the
car care sector.
The new Car Care Experience
Day, which costs £99, will provide
guidance on the best products to
clean, restore and protect a vehicle’s
interior and exterior surfaces. The
range will be split into modules,
with hints, tips and demonstrations
provided to make the car cleaning
experience even more enjoyable.
Instructors will support in
identifying common car care
related issues, how to fix them, and
how to prevent them in the future.
They’ll be on hand to answer any
questions throughout the day.
The course includes an exclusive
behind-the-scenes tour of
Autoglym’s research, development
and production facilities. Delegates
will see how Autoglym’s signature
bottles are filled and packaged
ready for global distribution, while a
visit to the laboratory will showcase
how products are developed and
tested before being put on sale.

Taking your bra off
at the end of the day feels great
And so does getting your
breast screening sorted
It can detect cancer long before you can even
feel it. Or more likely, put your mind at rest.
So when you’re invited,
save the date, it could save your life

28 SPORT
APRIL 2025
Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne
Sport
Title chances take a blow for Borough
EASTBOURNE Borough suffered
their first defeat in eight games
after a 3-1 defeat away at fellow
title rivals Dorking Wanderers.
Jimmy Muitt had put Dorking in
front early on at Meadowbank —
before the hosts went down to ten
men after George Francomb saw red.
But despite that, it was Dorking
who doubled their lead in firsthalf
stoppage time through a
Jason Prior penalty.
Borough were better after the break,
and Courtney Clarke’s superb strike
halved the deficit eight minutes into
the second half.
However, Brennan Camp bundled
home late on to condemn Borough
to only their third National League
South defeat in the last 22 outings.
For the third game in a row, Adam
Murray named an unchanged
starting eleven — with the only two
changes coming on the bench with
Alfie Pavey and David Sesay replacing
Michael Klass and John Shamalo.
After a balanced first few minutes,
it was Dorking who drew first blood
after ten minutes. Prior sent a hopeful
ball forwards and the ball held up to
allow Muitt to get there before Joe
Wright could claim it inside the area
and he poked the ball past the keeper
from just outside the area.
With Borough a goal down, they
were given cause for optimism
when the hosts were reduced to
Dorking Vs Eastbourne. Photo: Lydia Redman Photography
ten men. George Alexander broke
forwards to run onto a long ball and
Francomb was judged to have denied
a goalscoring opportunity having
tripped the Sports forward to be sent
off by referee Declan Brown.
The Sports failed to make the
most of their numerical advantage,
however, with the hosts restricting
Borough’s play and causing Murray’s
side problems themselves.
With half time approaching, Kai
Innocent did well to find Courtney
Clarke on the left. With space to drive
inside, he did just that before seeing
his shot go just wide of the far post.
Dominic Odusanya could then only
hit a free-kick into the wall from a
promising position, before Wright
was alert to save well from Camp after
the substitute was first to a second ball
in the penalty area.
However, in first half stoppage
time Dorking were given the
chance to double their lead. Tony
Craig went down in the area after a
coming together with Jason Adigun
and referee Brown pointed to the
spot. Prior stepped up, and fired
low past Wright.
Murray made two changes at the
break — with Brad Barry and Moussa
Diarra coming on — and the Sports
looked to get on the front foot straight
from the restart.
Yahaya Bamba skewed an effort
wide of the front post from the right,
before the deficit was halved in some
style on 53 minutes.
Ollie Kensdale found the feet of
Courtney Clarke on the right-hand
side, and he was afforded room to
take the shot on 25 yards out — and
the result didn’t disappoint, with the
ball flying beyond Harrison Foulkes
and into the bottom corner.
Adigun then floated a corner in and
picked out the towering Diarra, but
his downward header was well held
by former Borough keeper Foulkes.
As time ticked on, the hosts
managed the clock well and
frustrated the Sports, limiting
their opportunities in creating any
sort of momentum.
However, with nine minutes to go,
it was the hosts who dealt a sucker
punch. Camp took advantage of the
Sports failing to clear their lines and
managed to find room to beat Wright
at his near post with a finish from
inside ten yards.
Not the result, or performance, the
Sports would have hoped for — but
with five games to go they can’t afford
heads to drop with a home game
against Weymouth next weekend.
Heavyweight Debut
and Novice Title Shot:
Eastbourne Boxers’ Rise
TWO Eastbourne boxers, Emil Ples
and Nick Reed, made waves in Kent
recently in two separate bouts.
Both boxers delivered explosive
performances that left the local
fans stunned. The Essex fighters
were expected to bring the fireworks,
but it was Eastbourne’s duo
that delivered.
Both bouts ended in the first
round, with Nick and Emil showing
their power and precision. The
crowd, initially silent in shock,
quickly warmed to the Eastbourne
boxers, applauding their fast and
decisive victories.
Nick, 38, a Welsh fighter with years
of martial arts experience and a
newfound passion for boxing, made
his highly anticipated heavyweight
debut. Emil, a lightweight, was
stepping into the ring for his
second bout after an inspiring
personal journey.
Emil’s story is one of resilience. He
moved to the UK with his family when
he was just 9 years old. From the age
of 15, he faced relentless bullying
at school, an experience that left
him searching for a way to cope and
gain confidence.
That’s when he turned to
boxing. The discipline and mental
toughness the sport offered became
his escape and his strength. Now,
after years of dedication and hard
work, Emil was ready to prove
himself in the ring.
Nick Reed, known by his nickname
“IGOR,” wasted no time making
a statement in the heavyweight
division. His dominant debut earned
him an offer for another bout, with
the chance to challenge for the
Heavyweight Title.
Meanwhile, Emil’s strong
performance earned him a Novice
Title Fight scheduled for October,
marking the next step in his
journey to the top.
His story is a testament to the
power of determination and the
transformative power of boxing. Both
fighters’ victories in Kent have set
the stage for an exciting year ahead,
with fans eager to see what’s next for
these rising stars.
Nick Reed and Emil Ples