Eastbourne News, June 2025, Issue 13

JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 13

YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR EASTBOURNE, WILLINGDON, MEADS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

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

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JUNE 2025 | ISSUE 13

YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FOR EASTBOURNE, WILLINGDON, MEADS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

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

YOUR FREE COPY!

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THOUSANDS LINE THE SEAFRONT TO WITNESS THE

ANNUAL EASTBOURNE CARNIVAL CELEBRATIONS.

FOUR-PAGE PHOTO SPECIAL — SEE PAGES 13-16

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4 NEWS

JUNE 2025

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne

WELCOME

YET again, what an incredible

Carnival in May — the sheer number

of people who took part in the day

never fails to impress me.

Although the weather wasn’t as

good as last year, the standard of

entrants and the party atmosphere

were greater than ever. The rain

mainly held off, but the music, dance

and incredible costumes kept us all

entertained in what must be one of

the best carnivals in the UK.

You can see just some of the

amazing people who took part in

this year’s event in our four-page

special in this edition. We did our

best to capture as much as possible

— we could almost publish a whole

newspaper full of incredible images

of the carnival!

Thanks to the sponsors — we have

a real asset in Eastbourne, and it

is one that many other towns just

don’t have, so we must all continue

to support Mina and her team with

next year’s event.

The Eastbourne Bonfire Society also

pulled off an incredible event to mark

the VE Day Celebrations. The lighting

of the beacon on the beach at sunset

was a moving end to the day. See our

photos on page eight.

This month marks a full year since

we started producing this newspaper

for the town. I’d like to thank all our

supporters and advertisers who

continue to make this newspaper

free for you. We’ve had such

great feedback from readers, so

here’s to the next 12 months of

Eastbourne News!

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

Local firm’s support helps transform

school grounds with tree-lined avenue

A local engineering company

has made a lasting mark on

Eastbourne’s landscape by funding

the creation of a striking new treelined

entrance at Ratton School.

Edwards, a global leader in vacuum

and abatement solutions with a

strong local presence, partnered

with community planting initiative

Treebourne to fund an avenue

of ornamental pear trees (Pyrus

calleryana ‘Chanticleer’). Now

lining both sides of the school’s

main entrance, the elegant trees

are already turning heads with

their delicate spring blossom and

will dazzle again in autumn with

vivid red foliage.

Planted at around eight years old

and over 2.5 metres tall, the trees

have made an immediate visual

impact, creating a warm and natural

welcome for students, staff and

visitors. The project is about more

than just appearances—it’s also about

environmental impact.

A Spokesperson for Treebourne

said: “These trees won’t just look

beautiful—they’ll provide essential

habitat for birds, insects, and other

local wildlife. It’s a fantastic example

of how thoughtful planting can

support biodiversity right in the heart

of a school community.”

The avenue is the centrepiece of a

much larger green transformation

at Ratton School. Supported by

Treebourne, the project also includes

the planting of over 1,200 smaller

trees, the sowing of a wildflower

meadow, 250 metres of new hedging,

shade trees, and the restoration of

the school’s pond.

Edwards’ support reflects a

growing trend of businesses

stepping up to invest in local

sustainability and education. “It’s

inspiring to see a company like

Edwards getting involved at a

grassroots level. This partnership

is proof that when local businesses

invest in their communities,

everyone benefits.”, they added.

The initiative is already being

hailed as a blueprint for how

schools, charities, and businesses

can work together to create greener,

more welcoming environments

for young people and the

wider community.

Summer in Little Chelsea returns for a day of family fun

THE ever-popular Summer in

Little Chelsea event is set to return

later this month, promising a

day packed with fun, food, and

family entertainment in the

heart of the town.

Running on Saturday, 21st June

from 10am to 5pm, along South Street

and Grove Road, this free community

celebration is a firm favourite in

Eastbourne’s summer calendar.

With a vibrant mix of stalls, street

performances, and interactive family

activities, it’s expected to draw crowds

from across the town and beyond.

The day kicks off with a Dog Show

from 10am to 11am, followed by

an exciting programme of free

entertainment. Highlights include

live music on the main stage, craft

workshops, a Vintage Fair and

special appearances from children’s

favourites Disney Princesses, Spider-

Man, Bluey, and Bingo.

Children can get active with a range

of sports-themed activities including

Skittles hosted by the Rotary Club, a

Football Penalty Shoot-out, and even

tennis courts with coaching sessions.

There will be plenty of opportunities

to browse and buy from local traders,

with stalls offering everything from

toys and handmade gifts to cakes and

a variety of refreshments. Younger

visitors can enjoy children’s rides,

potter’s wheel sand arts, and more

throughout the day.

Lucy Hancock, owner of The

Art House and one of the event

organisers, shared her excitement

ahead of the event:

“This event is all about celebrating

Little Chelsea and everything our

wonderful town and community

have to offer. There’s something for

the whole family to enjoy — we’re so

excited to welcome everyone back

again this year!”

She added: “From delicious food

and drink to handmade crafts,

children’s activities, and a full

afternoon of live music, there’s just so

much to experience!”

Eastbourne BID, one of the event’s

key supporters, is also gearing up

for a big turnout.

Luke Johnson from the organisation

said: “There’s a fantastic line-up

planned, and we’re really looking

forward to seeing families of all ages

come together to enjoy the best of

what our brilliant community has to

offer. All we need now is a touch of

sunshine to make the day complete!”

Lucy Hancock also offered heartfelt

thanks to the businesses, volunteers,

and supporters who make the

event possible.

With something for everyone and a

warm community spirit at its heart,

Summer in Little Chelsea looks set

to be an unmissable highlight of

Eastbourne’s summer.

New Mayor elected as fresh appointments made to Cabinet

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Eastbourne News is a publication by Regional

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without express permission of the editor.

COUNCILLOR Margaret

Bannister has been

elected Mayor of

Eastbourne as she steps

down from her Deputy

Leader and portfolio

holder roles amid a

Cabinet restructure.

Councillor Hugh

Parker, who represents St

Anthonys, was appointed

Deputy Mayor at the Full

Council meeting.

The outgoing Mayor,

Councillor Candy Vaughan, and

Councillor Kathy Ballard have

joined Cabinet, which has been

expanded with some portfolio

responsibilities realigned.

Councillor Peter Diplock has

retained his portfolio of Housing

and Homelessness

and is now additionally

the Deputy Leader.

Councillor Stephen Holt

is continuing in his role

as Leader of the Council.

He leads a refreshed

team, featuring a mix of

experienced and newly

appointed members, each

taking on key portfolios

aimed at delivering the

council’s strategic goals.

The full Cabinet

lineup is as follows:

• Leader of the Council:

Councillor Stephen Holt

• Deputy Leader and Cabinet

Member for Housing

and Homelessness:

Councillor Peter Diplock

• Cabinet Member for

Finances, Resources and

Community Wealth Building:

Councillor Daniel Butcher

• Cabinet Member for

Communities and Accessibility:

Councillor Candy Vaughan

• Cabinet Member for Carbon

Neutral 2030 and Water Champion:

Councillor Jim Murray

• Cabinet Member for Regulatory

Services, Staff and Performance,

and Enterprise: Councillor

Colin Swansborough

• Cabinet Member for Tourism and

Place: Councillor Jenny Williams

• Cabinet Member for Community

Safety: Councillor Kathy Ballard

Councillor Holt expressed his

appreciation to those taking on new

responsibilities and welcomed fresh

voices to the leadership team.

He said: “My thanks to Councillor

Vaughan for her hard work as Mayor

of Eastbourne and I am delighted

to welcome her and Councillor

Ballard to Cabinet.

“Equally, I know Councillor

Bannister will bring her considerable

experience and knowledge of the

town to great effect as Mayor, having

been a borough councillor for more

than 20 years.”

The Mayor has chosen her two

charities of the year - Forward Facing,

which supports families whose

children are living with long-term

or life-limiting conditions, complex

disabilities. terminal illness or

bereavement; and Eastbourne Street

Pastors, who engage with people on

the street to listen, help and care.

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6 NEWS

JUNE 2025


Landmark drive to build

affordable homes begins

WORK has officially begun on a

landmark Eastbourne Borough

Council development to create

100 new affordable homes at the

former Victorian pump house site

off Bedfordwell Road.

The project will see the restoration

and conversion of the Grade II listed

pump house, an architectural feature

well known to train passengers

approaching Eastbourne station,

into 20 shared ownership flats and a

commercial unit.

Surrounding the historic building,

80 new homes will be built for

affordable rent, comprising a mix of

two and three-bedroom houses and

one and two-bedroom flats.

Bringing the site forward for

development has required extensive

groundwork by the council, which

has overcome a series of challenges

linked to the site’s previous industrial

use. The result is a scheme that aims

to deliver much-needed housing

while preserving a key piece of

Eastbourne’s heritage.

Councillor Peter Diplock, Cabinet

Member for Housing, said: “I

am incredibly pleased to see this

ambitious project move from

planning to reality. Developing a

brownfield site like Bedfordwell

Road presents unique challenges, but

our perseverance has paid off. This

development of 100 affordable homes

represents the most significant

council-led housing initiative in our

borough for decades and underscores

our commitment to delivering

much-needed homes that local

people can afford.”

Local youngsters awarded

King’s Scout Award

A CEREMONY has been held to

recognise the achievements of two

young Scouts who both received

the King’s Scout Award.

Oscar Williams from Eastbourne

and Jack Kimber from Brighton

attended a special event recently held

at Windsor Castle to collect the award.

The Duke of Kent, Joint President

of The Scouts, joined Chief Scout

Dwayne Fields in congratulating

the young awardees for achieving

the King’s Scout Award — the

highest recognition in Scouting for

adventure and skill development.

This year marked Dwayne’s first

time attending the annual event

in his role as Chief Scout, and also

commemorated The Duke of Kent’s

50th anniversary of involvement with

the organisation.

Scout Ambassadors, including

Astronaut Tim Peake and Olympian

Helen Glover, were also there to join

in the celebration and cheer on these

outstanding young people for their

amazing achievement.

The Award is presented for

outstanding personal achievement

and is achieved by Scouts aged

between 16 and 25 years old. To earn

the award, the young people must

complete a range of challenges,

including service to their community,

an expedition in wild country, a

five-day residential project in a new

Cllr Diplock (right) with Dick

Shone, managing director of

Boutique Modern at the site

environment, developing an existing

talent, or learning some new skills

to build on what they have already

learnt in the Scouts. This award also

allows the young people to undertake

projects which make an incredible

impact and lasting impression within

their local communities.

Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields, said

“Congratulations to each and every

one of you on receiving your King’s

Scout Award. This is an incredible

achievement, and it reflects all the

hard work, dedication, and passion

you’ve put into your Scout journey.

You’ve shown great leadership, made

a real difference, and embraced the

true spirit of Scouts. This award is

not only a recognition of all you’ve

done, but also a reminder of the

amazing things you’re capable of in

the future. I can’t wait to see what’s

next for you. Keep looking ahead and

leading the way!”

The council was successful in

securing grants of more than

£9.8m for this major scheme,

funded by government through

an Affordable Homes Grant

(£7.62m) and the Brownfield Land

Release Fund (£2.2m).

Councillor Stephen Holt, Leader of

Eastbourne Borough Council, added:

“This marks an exciting step forward

in our provision of high-quality,

affordable homes for residents.

Charity Shop reopens

refurbished premises

EAST Sussex Wildlife Rescue

Ambulance Service (WRAS) has

reopened its shop on Terminus

Road following an extensive refit.

It was officially opened

recently by Special Guest Alan

Knight, OBE, President of

International Animal Rescue.

To celebrate the charities 30th

birthday, the shop has undergone a

significant refurbishment to enhance

the shopping experience for its

customers and donors.

The newly updated store features

a more modern layout, additional

space for displaying items and much

improved lighting.

Faye Carrick, shop manager for

WRAS, said: “The refurbishment

of our charity shop represents an

important step forward in our efforts

to raise funds that will support

the invaluable work we do across

Sussex — rescuing, rehabilitating

and releasing wildlife back into

their natural environment while

supporting local communities

who may come into contact with

injured animals.

“We are confident our supporters

will enjoy the enhanced shopping

experience and we are grateful for the

impact their purchases will continue

to have on our cause.”

Patty, a dedicated volunteer,

who has given her time for over six

At a time when the housing need

has never been so great, starting

work on the Bedfordwell Road site

demonstrates our unwavering

dedication to addressing the housing

crisis in Eastbourne. This landmark

project will make a real difference to

the lives of many residents.”

Boutique Modern, a modular

housing provider, has been

awarded the contract to deliver the

scheme. The homes will mainly

be manufactured at its Newhaven

factory and then transported and

installed on-site, reducing the impact

on the environment and disruption

for neighbouring residents.

Works to prepare the site are

now underway, ahead of modular

homes being delivered there next

year. The new affordable homes

are expected to be completed

for people to live in from

winter 2026/2027.

Dick Shone, managing director

of Boutique Modern, said: “We’ve

worked closely with Eastbourne

Borough Council on a number of

successful schemes, so we’re pleased

to be partnering with them again

on this ambitious regeneration of a

much-loved local landmark.

“We’re looking forward to

transforming this disused site into

much-needed, sustainable housing

— built to last and designed with the

community in mind.”

years commented: “I volunteer on a

Monday and you’ll usually find me

steaming away preparing the clothes

for sale. I love animals, the charity

and other volunteers. I feel like I’m

making a real difference helping both

the wildlife in need with the income

we raise, and the environment

by selling preloved clothes. The

improvements to the shop will

make a huge difference, and we’re

all excited to see how our work will

continue to help wildlife in need.”

Holocaust

survivor

receives

highest

honour

EASTBOURNE Borough Council

has honoured Holocaust

survivor Dorit Oliver-Wolff

BEM by bestowing her with

its highest award, Freedom

of the Borough.

Eastbourne Borough Council

has honoured Holocaust survivor

Dorit Oliver-Wolff BEM by

bestowing her with its highest

award, Freedom of the Borough.

At a special ceremony in the

Town Hall, Mrs Oliver-Wolff BEM

was admitted as an Honorary

Freewoman of the Borough of

Eastbourne ‘in recognition and

appreciation of her extraordinary

life, her outstanding contribution

to Eastbourne and its community,

her work as a freedom fighter and

campaigner for human rights, her

dedication to Holocaust education

and her passion to ensure that the

Holocaust is never forgotten’.

Mrs Oliver-Wolff BEM was born

in Yugoslavia in 1936 and her early

life took a dramatic turn when

her home country was invaded by

Nazi Germany in 1941 during the

Second World War.

She and her Jewish family were

forced to flee and Dorit endured

years of hiding, harrowing

encounters and near starvation.

Her experiences during the

Holocaust, including the loss of

her father, profoundly shaped

her. After the war, she remarkably

rebuilt her life, becoming a

successful singer and top ten

recording artist in Germany.

In recent years, Mrs Oliver-Wolff

BEM- who lives in Eastbourne -

has dedicated herself to sharing

her story and educating others

about the Holocaust.

Freedom of the Borough is a

symbolic and ceremonial honour

that dates back to the Middle Ages

and recognises eminent services

or achievements.

Mrs Oliver-Wolff BEM was

awarded a British Empire

Medal for services to Holocaust

education and awareness in 2019.

HAMPDEN PARK MOTORING CENTRE

PEACE OF MIND ASSURED WHEN

BUYING A QUALITY USED CAR

Hampden Park Motoring Centre is delighted

to announce its opening at a popular a locally

owned dealership, which has been serving the

community for over 25 years.

We have 45 years of experience of selling quality

used cars and vans across East Sussex, and we’re

pleased to extend our offerings at our brand new

showroom in Hampden Park.

Central to our company’s prosperity is its

commitment to transparency, epitomised by an

exceptional offering, such as a 24-month parts

and labour warranty on cars or vans priced above

£4,500.

Every vehicle in the inventory, boasts only one or

two previous owners, accompanied by meticulous

service records.

Each car undergoes a thorough hygienic valet and

shampoo upon purchase.

Ensuring peace of mind for customers, all vehicles

undergo rigorous HPI checks, have their finances

cleared and are eligible for comprehensive

financing options at the Hampden Park Motoring

Centre.

Each car receives a pre-delivery inspection (PDI)

and a fresh MoT, with detailed representations

available on the company’s website through over

20 photos and a video showcase.

A representative from the company said: “We

understand the apprehensions surrounding the

origins of used vehicles. Rest assured, we exclusively

source our cars from reputable channels

such as main agents, finance companies, fleet and

leasing outlets.

Our commitment lies in offering discerning customers

top-tier, pre-owned vehicles.”

Visit the dealership on Mountfield Road, Hampden

Park, BN22 9BS, or view the full stock at

hampdenparkmotoringcentre.com or call 01323

507307 to find your next quality used car or van.

UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

MORE THAN 50 VEHICLES AT MOUNTFIELD ROAD, HAMPDEN PARK

£15,550 +vat

£11,333 +vat

£11,100 +vat £9,999 +vat £8,999 +vat

£14,750

VW Transporter

2021, 2.0 TDi, 110 Startline, one

company owner from new, 95,300

miles, service history, new MoT

and PDI.

Renault Trafic LL30

2021, Energy, dCi 120, Business+

van, one company owner from new,

66,500 miles, service history, new

MoT and PDI.

Ford Transit Custom

2020, 2.0 EcoBlue, 105ps, low roof

Leader van, one company owner,


MoT and PDI.

Peugeot Partner 1000

2020, 1.5 BlueHDi 100 Professional

van, one company owner from new,


MoT and PDI.

Vauxhall Vivaro

2019, 1.5d, 100ps, Dynamic H1,

one owner from new, 107,800

miles, full service history, new

Mot and PDI

Ford Transit Courier

2018, 1.5 TDCi, 95ps, one owner

from new, 80,300 miles, full service

history, 2 years parts and labour

warranty.

Mercedes-Benz GLC. 2015, 220d, 4Matic Sport, 5dr, only 35,800

miles, two year warranty, main dealer service history, new MoT

and PDI. .....................................................................................£17,890

Mercedes-Benz CLA. 2018, CLA 180 AMG Line, 5dr, automatic, one

owner from new, 58,000 miles, 1.6 petrol, ULEZ compliant, full

service history. ..........................................................................£17,150

Skoda Karoq. 2022, 1.5 TSI SE 5dr Estate is a reliable and efficient

car with only 41800 miles on the clock and a full main dealer service

history ................................................................................£15,870

Toyota Corolla. 2020, ULEZ compliant, 1.8 VVT-i Hybrid Excel 5dr

CVT Estate, one owner from new and 62,800 miles. This car comes

with full main dealer service history ......................................£15,850

Peugeot 2008. 2021, 1.5 Blue HDI 110 Active Premium, 5 door, one

owner from new, diesel, 12,200 miles, manual.....................£15,650

Citroen C5. 2020, 1.2 Puretech Aircross, Flair Plus, 5-door, one

owner from new, 37,000 miles, petrol, manual, 2 years warranty,

full history. .................................................................................£14,999

Ford Ecospor. 2022, 1.0 125 ST-Line, 5-door, one owner from new,

44,100 miles, petrol, manual, full service history, new MoT

and PDI. ......................................................................................£14,750

BMW 2-Series. 2019, 220d, X Drive Luxury, 5-door, Auto, Full main

dealer service history, 46,100 miles, diesel, one owner

from new. ...................................................................................£13,999

Citroen Berlingo. 2020, 1.5 BlueHDi, 100 Flair M, 5d, with only one

owner from new and 43,300 miles. This car comes with full main

dealer service history ...............................................................£13,860

Ford Kuga. 2021, 2.0 EcoBlue, mHEV, Titanium Edition, 5dr, with

only one owner from new and 70,000 miles. This car comes with

full main dealer service history ..............................................£13,777

DS. 2019, 3, 1.2 PureTech Performance Line, 5dr, with only one



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Honda Civic. 2018, 1.6 i-DTEC EX, 5dr, only one owner from new

and 31,100 miles. This car comes with full main dealer service

history ........................................................................................£13,680

Nissan Juke. 2021, 1.0, DiG-T, 114 N-Connecta, 5-door, one owner

from new, 27,000 miles, petrol, manual, full main dealer service

history, new MoT and PDI ........................................................£13,440

Renault Clio. 2022, 1.0, TCe 90 Iconic Edition, 5dr, Hatchback, with

only two owners from new and 19,400 miles. This car comes with

service history ..........................................................................£13,350

Toyota Verso. 2017, 1.8 V-matic Design 5dr M-Drive S with only

two owners from new and 60,800 miles. This car comes with main


Volkwagen Golf. 2018, 1.5 TSI, EVO SE, Nav, 5dr, with only one

owner from new and comes with 32,500 miles. This car comes with

full service history ....................................................................£12,995

Kia Ceed 3. 2019, ISG Estate, with only one owner from new and

31,500miles. This car comes with main dealer service history. The

car will leave with an oil & filter service, ................................£12,795

Nissan Qashqai. 2020, 1.3, DiG-T 160 Acenta, Premium, 5dr, with


main dealer service history ....................................................£12,780

Vauxhall Astra. 2021, 1.5 Turbo D, Griffin Edition, 5dr, with only

one owner from new and 41,900 miles. This car comes with full

service history ...........................................................................£12,550

Audi Q2. 2018, TFSI Sport with only one owner from new and

72,000 miles. The car come with comprehensive service history

and will leave with an oil & filter service ................................£12,495

Kia Ceed. 2019, 1.0T GDi ISG 3 5dr for sale, with only one owner

from new and 39,400 miles. This car comes with full main dealer

service history ...........................................................................£12,495

Kia Picanto. 2020, 1.25 X-Line S, 5dr, hatchback with only one



SEAT Ibiza. 2019, 1.6 TDI, 95 SE Technology, 5dr hatchback, with

only two owners from new and 29,900 miles. This car comes with

service history ...........................................................................£11,865

Ford Fiesta. 2021, 1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid, mHEV, 125 ST-Line,

Edition, 5dr, with only own owner from new and 37,800 miles. full

main dealer service history .....................................................£11,820

Citroen Cactus. 2020, 1.2 PureTech Flair, 5dr, 6 Speed, with only

one owner from new and 20,300 miles. This car comes with full

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MG ZS. 2020, 1.5 VTi-TECH Limited Edition, 5dr, with only one owner

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Dacia Duster. 2021, 1.0 TCe 90 Comfort, 5dr hatchback, with only

one owner from new and 48,600 miles. This car comes with service

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Honda Jazz. 2018, 1.3 i-VTEC, EX Navi, 5dr, with only one owner

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Vauxhall Crossland. 2021, 1.2 Turbo [130] SE Nav Premium 5dr,

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Peugeot 208. 2021, 1.2, PureTech Active Premium 5dr hatchback,

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Hyundai i10. 2018, 1.2 SE, 5dr Auto, with only two owners from

new and 46,700 miles. This car comes with comprehensive service

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8 NEWS

JUNE 2025


VE Day 80 commemoration

is a moving tribute to

those who served

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

EASTBOURNE commemorated

the 80th anniversary of VE Day

with an event attended by local

councillors, MP Josh Babarinde

OBE and hundreds of spectators.

The event included a torchlit

procession with Stix Drummers,

a performance by the Eastbourne

Silver Band and a heartfelt speech by

Captain of memorial Parades Daniel

Rushton-Fisher.

After the Last Post, bonfire society

members lit a commemorative

beacon on the beach to the sound

of Scots piper Ian White playing a

traditional lament, whilst waves

crashed in the background.

Eastbourne Bonfire Society — which

recently confirmed Eastbourne

News as its Official Media Partner

— held the event to commemorate

the 80th anniversary of the end of

WW2 in Europe.

A collection on the night raised

money for the Royal British Legion.

EBS has thanked Elite Medical for

providing volunteer First Aiders

and all those who turned out to

mark the occasion.

Residents can support Eastbourne

Bonfire Society by visiting them

at Little Chelsea Summer Fete,

Saturday 21st June; Armed Forces

Day Fete, Saturday 28th June;

Beachlife/999, Saturday 12th and

Sunday 13th July; Eastbourne

Pride, 19th July; Pevensey Fete

and Dog Show, Sunday 27th

July; Eastbourne International

Airshow, 14th-17th July, where it is

holding traditional family games

including a tombola, lucky dip and

crockery smash.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne JUNE 2025 NEWS 9

Ashley Wooller and Museum Director Colin Smart unveil the engine

Crashed Spitfire engine

donated to museum

A ROLLS-ROYCE Merlin engine

which was recovered from a

crashed Spitfire in Arlington, has

been handed over to a museum to

ensure its fascinating story can

be seen by all.

On 5th May, 1942, Flight Lieutenant

Edward ‘Ted’ Hall took off from

Westhampnett, now known as

Goodwood, on a mission in his

Spitfire to France.

Halfway across the Channel, it’s

believed the engine developed a

major oil leak, spewing oil over the

canopy, which completely blocked

his view. With the help of his

wingman, he was talked back towards

Britain, flying over Eastbourne,

before the plane eventually crashed

in Arlington, near Hailsham.

Ted, from Australia, survived

the incident as he bailed out using

his parachute, but the aircraft

slammed into a field at 400mph,

creating a 25ft crater.

Following the crash, the RAF went

Ted Hall during a crash site visit with Phil Wooller

to the scene and collected some of the

remains and filled in the hole.

In 1976, Phil Wooller, who

witnessed the crash, was approached

by an archaeologist and the engine

was recovered, which was in ‘great

condition’. Ted revisited the farm in

1978, where it had crashed, after the

engine was dug out of the ground.

In the 1980s, the army airlifted the

engine from the Arlington farm and

delivered it to the Redoubt Fortress

in Eastbourne, where it remained

Flight Lieutenant

Edward ‘Ted’ Hall

until its closure.

The current owner of the engine,

Ashley Wooller, whose Father owned

the farm but died in 2019, decided

it should be on display, and Ted’s

amazing story could be told, so the

engine now sits at the Tangmere

Aviation Museum near Chichester.

It was unveiled today (22 May) at

its new home in a special ceremony,

which was attended by Ashley and his

family. Ted’s great nephew, Michael

McManus, who is visiting from

Australia also attended the event. He

knew nothing about his Great Uncle’s

story until recently.

At the event, Michael said: “It’s

an incredible story, and I only read

about it on Facebook very recently.

We know some stories about Ted and

his adventures in other countries,

but we didn’t know anything

about the engine and how it’s been

recovered, so we’re very pleased it’s

now on display. My Grandmother,

The army lifting the engine in the 1980s

The Spitfire BM375

Ted’s sister, would be very proud of

him right now.”

Ashley said: “When we found out

the Redoubt was closing, I wondered

what on earth I would do with a

Spitfire engine, and soon decided

it would be great to donate it to

the museum. It was a very tricky

operation, but I’m so pleased it’s now

on display and visitors can now enjoy

seeing it here.”

Ted sadly died in Australia at the age

of 82 in the year 2000.

The family have organised a special

event this month so that local people

can learn more about the story. It’ll

take place at Arlington Village Hall on

June 10th from 10am until 12.

Popular music and movement

classes return to The Art House

Hampden Park faces retail

challenges amidst new

automotive investment

A MUCH-LOVED fixture for

local families is making a joyful

comeback this month, as The Art

House reintroduces its popular

Baby and Pre-School Music and

Movement Classes with support

from the National Lottery.

Tailored for children aged 0

to 4 years, the weekly sessions

at the venue in Grove Road,

Eastbourne, promise a fun,

educational and sociable experience

for little ones and their grown-ups.

Thanks to renewed funding and

community demand, the classes

are once again bringing rhythm

and connection to Eastbourne’s

youngest residents.

Led by a qualified and energetic

music teacher, each class is packed

with engaging songs, musical

instruments and interactive play

that help teach numbers, colours,

coordination all in a warm and

welcoming environment.

Lucy Hancock of The Art House,

said: “We’re so excited to be

welcoming back families to this joyful

class. It’s a wonderful way for young

children to express themselves and

build early social and musical skills.”

Local mum Lauren, who attended

last year with her 18-month-old

daughter and three-year-old son,

said the sessions quickly became a

family favourite.

She said: “The music class at The

Art House is the highlight of our

week. My children light up as soon

as the instruments come out. It’s

such a lovely way to bond with

them and meet other parents too.

Plus, being able to have a coffee and

cake afterwards with other mums

is such a bonus!”

With limited spaces available,

families are encouraged to prebook.

To reserve a place or explore

other community events and

activities at The Art House, visit

www.thearthousecafe.co.uk.

HAMPDEN Park is experiencing

a period of economic transition,

whilst some local shops have

recently closed their doors for

the last time, the area has seen a

significant investment from a local

used car dealership.

Hampden Park Motoring Centre

has invested around £1 million in

a new dealership, after taking over

the site from its previous owners,

who ran the used car sales forecourt

for more than 30 years. The site

was reopened last month with a

brand new look.

The investment has bucked the

trend of high street closures, as,

according to the Centre for Retail

Research, a total of 13,479 high

street shops closed across the UK

in 2024. This marks a 28% increase

compared to 2023.

In contrast to these figures,

Hampden Park Motoring Centre’s

substantial investment in a new

dealership signals confidence in

the area’s potential. The investment

aims to provide enhanced services

to car buyers and create new

employment opportunities, offering

a boost to the local economy.

A spokesperson for the Hampden

Park Motoring Centre said: “We’re

delighted to bring this major lifeline

into the community. We have a long

history in selling quality cars across

East Sussex for many decades, so this

investment into Hampden Park is

extremely important for us as well as

the high street.”

They added: “This is an extremely

difficult time for a lot of businesses,

but we really need to keep our

town centres alive and thriving.

It’s always sad to see businesses

close up, so anything we can do to

drive more shoppers into the high

street must be done.”

10 NEWS

JUNE 2025


Carpet Gardens undergo sustainable

transformation in major renovation

EASTBOURNE’S iconic Carpet

Gardens, one of the town’s most

photographed landmarks, are

undergoing a transformation which

is due to complete this month.

The extensive renovation

project, which began in mid-May,

is part of an innovative initiative

to modernise the gardens while

‘embracing sustainability and

enhancing biodiversity’.

For more than a century, the Carpet

Gardens have charmed visitors with

their meticulously arranged summer

bedding displays, filled with imported

plants that burst into colour each

spring and summer.

While visually stunning, this

traditional planting scheme has come

at a high environmental and financial

cost, with the entire garden having to

be replanted twice a year.

Now, a bold new vision is being

trialled. The refreshed gardens

will feature a dual-style planting

showcase: one section will continue

the long-standing tradition of vibrant

summer bedding plants, while the

adjacent section will debut a more

sustainable, naturalistic approach.

This innovative side-by-side

planting allows residents and visitors

to compare the two styles and offer

feedback on which they’d prefer to

see adopted in future displays.

Leading the project is

internationally recognised landscape

designer Peter Thurman, a Sussexbased

horticulturist with over 45

years of experience.

Thurman has designed gardens

across the globe and is known for his

environmentally conscious designs.

He brings with him an illustrious

background that includes teaching

at the Royal Botanic Gardens,

Kew, and lecturing at prestigious

institutions like the Inchbald School

of Design in London.

Thurman’s new design embraces

the changing climate and the need for

greater environmental responsibility.

The plants chosen for the new section

are predominantly perennials,

capable of surviving Eastbourne’s

increasingly warmer and drier coastal

weather. These plants will provide

year-round colour and texture, while

also serving a vital ecological function

by attracting pollinators and offering

seeds for birds.

He said: “Eastbourne is blessed with

a unique microclimate, and we’re

embracing that opportunity to create

something not just beautiful, but also

resilient and beneficial to wildlife.

This new design isn’t about replacing

the old but evolving it to meet the

challenges of today, and tomorrow.”

A significant feature of the project

is the soil restoration. In recent

years, the Carpet Gardens have

been plagued by an invasive South

American weed, Oxalis latifolia,

which has compromised the health of

the soil and plant life.

Instead of using harmful herbicides,

the team is employing a non-chemical

approach. The contaminated soil is

being removed and replaced with a

new, free-draining rooting medium.

Soil levels are being raised by 20–30

centimetres, a technique that also

helps suppress the invasive weed

and support the long-term health of

the new plantings.

Visitors to the gardens can expect

to see a more naturalistic layout

in the new section, with plants

that grow and evolve through the

seasons. While the traditional section

will still burst with orderly rows of

vibrant colours, the new design will

offer shifting palettes and textures,

a living tapestry that changes

throughout the year.

Among the anticipated benefits

of the updated design are: Floral

and foliage interest in all seasons,

plants adapted to coastal conditions,

reduced water use and lower

maintenance costs, improved soil

health and carbon capture and

increased support for insects, birds,

and other wildlife

The project has already sparked

interest among residents and

environmental groups, many

of whom see it as a positive step

forward in balancing heritage with

sustainability.

Eastbourne Borough Council has

confirmed that public feedback will

play a key role in deciding the longterm

future of the gardens. Visitors

will be encouraged to share their

views on both the traditional and

sustainable planting styles once the

work is complete.

With its mix of historic charm

and forward-thinking design, the

revamped Carpet Gardens promise

to remain a beloved feature of the

Eastbourne seafront for years to

come, according to the designers,

offering not only a feast for the eyes

but a haven for wildlife and a model

of sustainable horticulture.

WHERE

WILL

Get there with

Flexibus!

local, on-demand public

transport for the price of

a standard bus

TAKE

YOU?

Book your ride now:

01273

078203

Powered by

eastsussex.gov.uk/flexibus

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne JUNE 2025 COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD 11

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

HAILSHAM

NETWORKING BRUNCH FOR PROFESSIONALS

Abbots Wood Manor, 116 London Road, BN27 3AL.

First Friday of the Month, 10:00am — 11:30am,

2 May & 6 June. Join us for a delicious brunch

and the opportunity to connect with other local

professionals in a welcoming and relaxed setting —

all welcome! For more info: 01323 576100 | Richard.

hollands@hamberleycarehomes.co.uk

SUSSEX DAY CELEBRATION — HAILSHAM

TOWN COUNCIL

Vicarage Field, Hailsham. Saturday 21 June, 8:30am

— 1:00pm. A free community event celebrating all

things Sussex! Enjoy a vibrant market with local

traders including The Rum Infusionist, Ace Knits

& Bits, Misty Acres, Scrumdiddlyumptious, and

Dreamweaver Kids. Local groups such as Hailsham

Lions, Hailsham & District U3A, and Hailsham

Foodbank will also be there with books, handmade

gifts, games, and more. Entertainment includes

maypole dancing by local brownies, live folk music

from Ceol Na Mara, a Hailsham FM live broadcast,

and children’s face painting by Lilipops. For more

information: 01323 841702 | enquiries@hailsham-tc.

gov.uk

SUPER CAR SUNDAY

Laughton Showground. Sunday 29 June 2025.

Super Car Sunday returns with a brand new venue

and layout at Laughton Showground—known for

hosting large-scale events with excellent access

and parking. Expect an unforgettable showcase of

the world’s most iconic and exotic supercars, from

Ferrari and Lamborghini to McLaren and more.

With cutting-edge engineering, sleek designs and

heart-racing action, this is a must for any car lover

or speed enthusiast. Whether you’re exhibiting or

spectating, don’t miss your chance to be part of

this ultimate motoring experience. Advance tickets

available online—gate prices increase on the day.

HAILSHAM TOWN COUNCIL —

NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN FOCUS GROUPS

Wednesday 4 June 2025 — 10.30am, 1pm, 6.15pm

Hailsham residents are invited to share their

views on two key proposals from the revised

Neighbourhood Plan: Improved connectivity

along the A22 for cyclists and pedestrians; Partial

pedestrianisation of the High Street. Join a drop-in

focus group session at one of the following times/

locations: 10.30am, Railway Club, Lower Floor,

Station Youth Centre, Western Road; 1.00pm,

Dippy Doodahs Café, 52 High Street; 6.15pm, Dippy

Doodahs Café, 52 High Street. This is your chance

to help shape the future of Hailsham before the

updated Plan is submitted to Wealden District

Council. For more information, contact Hailsham

Town Council.

HAILSHAM HERITAGE CENTRE & MUSEUM

Blackman’s Yard, Market Street, Hailsham. Fridays

& Saturdays, now until 25 October — 10am to

12.30pm. Step into Hailsham’s past at the Heritage

Centre & Museum, open every weekend. Discover

fascinating displays, local artefacts, and a glimpse

into the town’s rich history. Free entry — all

welcome.

EASTBOURNE

MORTAIN’S MUSIC FEST

Mortain Place Care Home, 93 Pevensey Bay Road,

Eastbourne. Saturday 7 June from 1:30pm. Join

us for an afternoon of live music in the garden

featuring performances by Stephen Dunnett, Guy

Sunshine — Care Singer, Tilsmore, and The Rufus

Stone Band. This free community event is in support

of Defiant Sports. Bring a picnic, enjoy the sunshine,

and grab some refreshments while enjoying the

music. More info: www.barchester.com/home/

mortain-place-care-home

EASTBOURNE SILVER BAND

Meads Hall, Meads Street, Eastbourne. Wednesday

10 July 2025, Doors 7.45pm / Concert 8.00pm. To

celebrate 75 years of music making, Eastbourne

Silver Band is hosting a special charity concert in

support of St. Wilfrid’s Hospice and Children with

Cancer Fund. Join us for a fun and entertaining

evening of music and humour, all in aid of two

wonderful local causes. Tickets are £10 and

available from Grand Flowers (Meads Street), www.

printsregent.uk/ESB, or via the QR code on the

event poster. Spaces are limited — don’t miss out!

SHARNFOLD FARM SUMMER MARKET

Sharnfold Farm, Stone Cross, Pevensey. Sunday 13

July 2025, 10.30am — 2.30pm. Join us for a vibrant

Summer Market filled with seasonal homeware,

gifts, treats and more from fabulous local

stallholders. Free entry and parking available.

Visit: www.newstyleevents.co.uk for stallholder

enquiries.

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.

BEXHILL

FRIENDS OF COMBE VALLEY AND

GROUNDWORK

Freshfields, St Leonards-on-Sea (before the recycling

centre). Sunday 8 June, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a FREE

family-friendly Green Day at the Discovery Centre.

Enjoy woodworking demonstrations, children’s

games, and activities with a focus on sustainability.

Take part in our swap station—bring or take clothes,

plants, seeds, books, and recipes. Alternatively

people can take and donate if they do not have

items to swap. Local environmental groups will be

hosting stalls, and refreshments will be available in

the community garden and picnic area.

CRAFT FAIR

St Barnabas Church, Sea Road, Bexhill TN40 1JG.

Saturday 14 June, 10:00am — 2:30pm. Free entry to

a lovely fair featuring local crafters selling beautiful

handmade items. Enjoy cakes, tea and coffee while

you browse. Support local. Shop local.

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.

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.

12 NEWS

JUNE 2025


Eastbourne Joins Global

Celebration of Vyshyvanka Day

MORE than 150 people

gathered at Emanuel Church in

Eastbourne recently to mark

Vyshyvanka Day — a global

celebration of Ukrainian heritage,

culture and resilience.

Hosted by the Association of

Ukrainians in Great Britain,

Eastbourne Branch, in partnership

with East Sussex Ukraine Support,

the event brought together local

residents, British supporters,

and members of the Ukrainian

community in a vibrant show of

unity and tradition.

Special guest, the Mayor of

Eastbourne, Cllr Candy Vaughan,

attended the celebration,

demonstrating a powerful gesture

of friendship and solidarity with the

Ukrainian people. Her presence was

warmly welcomed by organisers

and guests alike.

Vyshyvanka Day celebrates the

traditional embroidered shirts known

as vyshyvankas, worn for centuries

by Ukrainians. What began as a

schoolgirl’s idea to wear traditional

dress for a day has grown into an

international expression of national

pride, identity, and strength.

“The vyshyvanka is more than

clothing — it’s our story, our

protection, and our heritage,” said a

spokesperson from the group. “Each

stitch holds the memories and spirit

of our ancestors.”

The celebration featured traditional

music, food, embroidery displays and

storytelling. Attendees wore ornate

garments decorated with symbolic

patterns, each telling stories of love,

strength and family legacy. The

atmosphere was filled with colour,

emotion, and cultural pride.

Importantly, the event also raised

£1,382.50 to support those affected

by the war in Ukraine, a testament

to the continued generosity and

compassion of the local community.

“For the third year, Eastbourne

has stood by us, not only with words,

but with action,” said one organiser.

“Every donation is a step towards

hope and healing.”

A heartfelt thanks was extended to

Emanuel Church for providing the

venue, as well as to the volunteers

and performers who made

the day possible.

“Your dedication and

kindness made this celebration

truly unforgettable,” said

the spokesperson.

Vyshyvanka Day in Eastbourne was

not only a cultural showcase, but a

reminder of the strength that comes

from community, and the bonds that

can be woven when people come

together with open hearts.

Intensive Home Treatment Service launched

to support young people’s mental health

A NEW Crisis and Intensive Home

Treatment Service (IHTS) has been

launched in Sussex to provide

crucial mental health support for

young people, aiming to prevent

unnecessary hospital admissions.

This innovative service will offer a

crisis response and intensive, specialist

care in the home environment,

ensuring that young people receive the

right support at the right time, while

remaining in familiar surroundings

with their families.

Coast (Crisis Outreach Acute Support

Team) has been developed by Sussex

Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

(SPFT) and the Hampshire, Sussex

and Kent Provider Collaborative in

partnership with NHS Sussex.

The development of Coast has

been co-produced with Experts by

Experience (EBEs) who have also

recorded a podcast which outlines

lived experiences of accessing

inpatient and acute care within

CAMHS. The feedback has been

integral to shaping the new model

and the young people involved

have continued to form part of the

project group and recruitment

processes for new staff.

One EBE, Dulcie, said: “I feel really

positive about this new service

because it addresses the gap that can

often appear in between community

and inpatient treatment. If this was

offered to me, it would have helped me

enormously to maybe avoid hospital or

even just better my transition back to

the community.”

Zoe, who features in the podcast

and is part of the project, said: “I think

this service is going to have a positive

impact on young people in Sussex

by hopefully reducing the amount of

admissions, which will be beneficial

for the young people.

“For me, some of my experiences

were difficult to deal with and didn’t

always impact me in a positive way, but

that was the only option at that time. I

think if I had had this service, I would

have been able to avoid some of my

admissions -sometimes hospital isn’t

the best option for a young person.”

The service, launched in April 2025,

introduces a new way of working

with a joined-up approach to the

current home treatment team and

urgent help service. There is an

overarching multi-disciplinary

team offering an enhanced crisis

and intensive treatment service to

support very unwell young people

who might otherwise need to be

admitted to hospital.

Max Read, CAMHS Acute & ED Nurse

Consultant, said: “Coast will provide

the intensive, multidisciplinary

support that some young people

need for a period of time, but without

requiring them to be placed in a

hospital environment, which can

feel really hard”.

The aim of Coast is to provide an

alternative to inpatient care for young

people experiencing severe mental

health difficulties. By delivering rapid

and responsive interventions, the

service will help to stabilise crises,

support recovery and reduce the

pressure on hospital services.

Interventions will be delivered at

home, in the community, clinic and/

or telephone-based services for young

people and their families. Intensive

home treatment includes education

provided by the Alternative Provision

College (West Sussex County Council)

either in the home or online options

as appropriate.

Dr Anna Moriarty, Associate

Clinical Director Sussex CAMHS,

said: “We are excited to be launching

this new, innovative service within

Sussex CAMHS. Coast has been

developed in collaboration with

young people/parents and carers,

also drawing on the expertise of

CAMHS clinicians. The team will

deliver bespoke and needs-led

intervention, drawing on evidencebased

practice for young people with

acute care needs.”

The launch of the Crisis and Intensive

Home Treatment Service is part of a

broader commitment to improving

mental health care for young people

in Sussex. The service aligns with

national efforts to enhance early

intervention and community-based

treatment options.

Community-based intensive

treatment programmes like Coast offer

cost savings compared to inpatient

services and can provide timely

treatment to young people, in or closer

to their homes and communities.

Visit www.sussexpartnership.nhs.uk

for more information.


Eastbourne Carnival

wowed crowds at

annual event

PHOTOS: PAUL GIBSON

THIS year’s theme was

‘Celebrations of the World’,

which saw members of the local

community join forces with groups

from nearby towns and cities to

showcase festivals and cultural

traditions from across the globe.

Among the highlights was the

attendance of members from the

Dortmund Carnival, who travelled to

Eastbourne with their Carnival Prince

and Princess, along with more than

40 members of their marching band.

Popular Bolivian and Latin Carnival

groups also returned, once again

delighting residents and visitors

with energetic performances and

colourful costumes.

The event officially started

around midday with a lively

gathering at Bankers Corner in

the town centre. Attendees were

treated to performances by the

renowned Sunshine International

Arts, Stix Drummers, Cherry

Dance and an appearance by the

Mayor of Eastbourne.

The main parade began at 2pm,

setting off from Fisherman’s

Green and making its way along

the seafront towards the Wish

Tower Slopes. Spectators lined

the route early to catch the 60+

groups making their way towards

The View Hotel, where the main

performances took place.

A street party followed at Bankers

Corner with DJs playing a vibrant mix

of music — including Soca.

Donations collected on the day

went towards local charities, nonprofit

entrants and the planning of

the 2026 Carnival.

14 NEWS

JUNE 2025



16 NEWS

JUNE 2025


Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.newseastbourne JUNE 2025 NEWS 17

Who will govern your council?

Time to have your say

RESIDENTS are being invited

to take part in a consultation

on the biggest shake-up of local

government across East Sussex

since the 19th Century.

The consultation on how council

services will be delivered in our

county has now begun and residents

are being urged to have their say.

ONE COUNCIL

The Government wants to reorganise

local government so that everyone in

East Sussex gets their services from

just one council. This could mean

the county council and district and

borough councils, including Wealden

District Council, would be replaced by

a single authority.

With a new council expected to be

elected in 2027 and start work in 2028,

East Sussex County Council (ESCC)

and district and borough councils

are working on plans and are asking

residents for their views.

UNITED FRONT?

The five districts/boroughs and

the county council are presenting

a united front, but a letter to the

Government from Wealden District

Council suggests the smaller councils

have been given little choice but to

support their own abolition given the

time constraints and government

criteria limits.

Many expected the new single

councils would be smaller than ESCC

but bigger than the districts. But now,

the interim plan is to replace all the

councils with one that covers the

whole of East Sussex — meaning the

end of Wealden, Lewes and Rother

District Councils and Hastings and

Eastbourne Borough Councils.

ESCC insists all councils would be

abolished, including itself, although

it’s difficult to see how this new

council would be anything other

than a reincarnation of ESCC with

more powers. The cabinet of ESCC

has backed this interim plan which it

says has been drawn up with partners

from borough and district councils.

STREAMLINED LOCAL

GOVERNMENT

It says a new local authority on the

current boundaries of East Sussex

appears a clear option for reorganising

local government and could meet

the government’s ambitions for

streamlined local government.

Cllr Keith Glazier, leader of East

Sussex County Council said: “In

response to Government plans we

have worked with our colleagues in

the districts and boroughs to draw

up an initial plan for a single local

authority for East Sussex that could

provide best quality and value for all

its 550,000 residents.

“Final, detailed proposals will

be submitted to Government in

September and we now need to hear

the views of residents, businesses

and other partners to ensure the plan

we develop will deliver the greatest

benefits to our communities.”

The consultation will be available

to complete online at www.

smartsurvey.co.uk/s/EastSussexLGR

until Monday 23 June.

In the interim plan, ESCC says it,

and the five district and borough

councils, have set out what they

believe any new local authority would

have to achieve including:

• Improving outcomes for residents

and communities

• Making best use of resources now

and for the future

• Enhancing local democracy,

local identity, transparency,

accessibility, local decision

making and accountability

• Supporting and driving decision

making and public service reform

at both Sussex and local level

• Providing a stronger and unified

voice to help attract investment

and tackle priorities

But the apparent united front might

not be as strong as ESCC is claiming. In

a letter to the Government, Wealden

council leader Cllr Rachel Millward

said, while all six council leaders had

worked collaboratively to deliver

an Interim Plan as requested, the

Governments criteria and timeframe

meant there was only one

option — a single unitary authority

for East Sussex.

Cllr Millward said: “Given this limit

and the very short time we have had

to give other options appropriate

consideration, we have agreed to the

proposals set out in the plan.”

NOT A DONE DEAL

She made it very clear that the interim

plan is not a done deal. “It is important,

though, that we leave the door open

for the potential to adjust our plans as

the work gets underway to develop the

proposals and, especially, in the light

of responses to public consultation.

The landscape and demography of

East Sussex is wide and varied, and

the challenges we face in our district

are distinct from the challenges

faced by other districts and boroughs

in the county.”

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18 EASTBOURNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE

JUNE 2025


@EdealSouthEast @EdealSouthEast @Edeal-Enterprise-Agency www.eastbournechamber.co.uk

PRG celebrates 45 years

of helping local brands

make their mark

PRG Marketing Communications

is proud to support East Sussex

businesses with full-service

marketing — from strategy and

campaigns to digital, PR and web

development. Increasingly, local

organisations are turning to PRG

for help with branding and design:

two key services that can make

a powerful first impression and

help businesses stand out in a

competitive market.

Two recent projects highlight how

the Eastbourne-based business is

helping local businesses strengthen

their brand presence.

The brand and marketing experts

supported East Sussex Growth Hub

in their drive to boost awareness

of their services by designing and

producing eye-catching branded

merchandise for events and outreach

activity. From pens and notebooks to

tote bags and pop-up banners, every

item was carefully designed to reflect

the Growth Hub’s approachable

identity and support meaningful

conversations with local businesses.

This work forms part of a wider

partnership, with PRG providing

continued support the Growth Hub

with creative solutions that help

them engage effectively with the East

Sussex business community.

Meanwhile, PRG worked closely

with Christopher Bean Solicitors —

a long-established firm, formerly

known as Janet Sinden and Co., with

offices in Hastings and Hailsham

— to refresh their brand without

losing the reputation they’ve built

over decades. The marketing

and communications specialists’

work included creating a modern,

distinctive new logo, brand palette

and identity, followed by signage,

stationery and a sleek updated

website. The result is a consistent,

contemporary look that reflects the

firm’s values and vision.

Whether it’s a full brand evolution

or a suite of marketing materials, PRG

brings the same energy, care and

creativity to every project.

“As a business proudly based in

Eastbourne, we’re passionate about

supporting our local community,”

says PRG Managing Director Simon

Groves. “This year marks PRG’s 45th

anniversary, and we’ve got some

exciting things on the horizon — so

keep your eyes peeled.”

“If your business could benefit from

stronger branding or design support,

we’d love to help”.

www.prgltd.co.uk

Patterson Gallery

Opens at the

Lansdowne Hotel

FREE Business Start-up

Programme for

Eastbourne Residents

WE are thrilled to announce that

Chamber member Peter Patterson

has launched a permanent gallery

space at the Lansdowne Hotel.

Patterson Gallery, which opened

at the end of April, will feature

pieces from local artists and a

changing roster of pieces selected

by Peter from renowned local

artists and those from around the

world. Artists featured include

ceramicists such as Lola K. Swain

and Alan D. Pierce, as well as

traditional painters such as Sam

Peacock and Andrew Murdoch.

In addition, Peter himself will be

on-hand to talk you through the

artworks on display and make

you feel at home.

Patterson Gallery is open every

Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm

and weekdays by appointment, all

with free entry. You can find it in the

Alfriston Room at the Lansdowne

Hotel, King Edward’s Parade,

Eastbourne BN21 4EE

For more details, visit

www.pattersongallery.co.uk

ARE you a budding entrepreneur

based in Eastbourne? LEAP is a

fully funded business start-up

programme brought to you by Edeal

in partnership with Eastbourne

Borough Council. Backed by the

UK Government through the UK

Shared Prosperity Fund, this no-cost

initiative offers expert guidance,

and the opportunity for one lucky

candidate to win a £500 grant for the

best business plan!

Who Can Apply? LEAP is open to

residents of the Eastbourne Borough

Council area who are looking to start

a new business. We also welcome

applications from local businesses

that have been trading for less

than 12 months.

What’s Included? The programme is

delivered in three stages:

• A one-day business

start-up workshop

• Three in-depth,

three-hour workshops

• One-to-one mentoring with a

dedicated business advisor to help

you develop your business plan.

Spaces are limited—don’t miss out!

Register today by visiting the LEAP

section at www.edealgroup.org

or email info@edeal.org.uk for a

registration form.

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne JUNE 2025 EASTBOURNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE UPDATE 19

Join us for the European Movement talk and dinner

Hydro Hotel, Eastbourne

THE European Movement

dinner and talk takes place at

Eastbourne’s Hydro Hotel each

month with a two-course gourmet

meal followed by a talk by a

prominent expert.

June’s guest speaker is Martyn

Bond is Director of The Federal Trust

Martyn Bond

and a Former MEP.

Martyn trained at the BBC as a radio

and TV producer before moving to

academia to teach European studies,

and later to a career as a European

civil servant, first in the press office

of the Council of Ministers and later

running the European Parliament

office in London.

In the early 1980s, Martyn

was Berlin correspondent at

the BBC. He has written several

books on European politics as

well as a biography of Count

Richard Coudenhove-Kalergi,

Hitler’s Cosmopolitan Bastard. The

book follows the life of a crucial but

little-known figure in European

history, whose influence ripples

through events from the First

World War to the formation of the

European Union.

A highly decorated academic,

Martyn is Patron of the University

Association for Contemporary

European Studies, a Fellow

of the Chartered Institute of

Linguists and Deputy Chairman of

the London Press.

Martyn’s socio-historical

perspective will bring context and

perspective to analysis of the current

state of Europe and our relationship

with our nearest neighbours.

Founded in 1947 by Winston

Churchill, the European

Movement promotes peace and

prosperity in Europe.

Neither the European

Movement nor the Chamber of

Commerce have any allegiance to

any political party.

To book your tickets, go to www.

eastbourneunltd.co.uk/events

Nominations now

open: 2025 Eastbourne

Business Awards

WITH categories ranging from Customer Service to Creative Excellence, the Eastbourne

Business Awards celebrate the brightest and best our town has to offer. Nominations are

now open for the 2025 awards, which take place this year at the Winter Garden 10th October.

Head over to eastbournebusinessawards.co.uk and get nominating!

2025 Eastbourne Business Awards

host, Helen Lederer

Did you know in the last 5 years, LGB hate crime has risen by more than 70%

and transgender hate crime by over 110%?

Eastbourne Chamber is proud to be a safe space for LGBTQ+ members and

staff. To find out how you can pledge your workplace as a safe space, visit

www.mysafespace.org.uk

20 REGULARS

JUNE 2025


KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

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

“REST is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day,

listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by

no means a waste of time” — John Lubbock

IT is often said that gardeners rarely

just sit in their own gardens; they are

always busily doing something despite

their best intentions.

There is so much to be gained from

just being in nature, you don’t have

to have your own garden or plot, find

your local green space or body of water

and take a wander.

Parks, public and domestic gardens

are not just spaces of greenery but

vibrant examples of horticulture that

significantly enrich human lives. From

cultivating mental health to fostering

social bonds and supporting biodiversity,

these horticultural havens are essential

for communities and personal well-being.

The horticultural elements of parks

and domestic gardens have a profound

impact on mental health. Engaging

with plants, whether admiring their

beauty in a park or nurturing them in

your own garden, has been shown to

reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

The act of caring for plants promotes

mindfulness and provides a calming

escape from current affairs and the

rigours of daily life.

Gardening tasks like pruning, planting

out, or weeding borders help us all to

focus and to find a sense of achievement.

These activities not only enhance our

emotional well-being but also connect us

all to the seasons.

Parks with curated horticultural

landscapes, such as botanic and public

gardens, encourage physical health by

providing accessible paths and yearround

outdoor spaces for exploration.

Botanic Gardens are always my go-to

destination when on holiday, I love

the fact that every plant group is

labelled which saves me a great deal of

head scratching

One of the many reasons that I enjoy

my job is the fact that horticulture

brings people together. Parks and

allotment sites often host gardening

workshops, plant fairs or tree-planting

events that unite local communities.

These collaborative activities foster

social interaction and create shared

experiences rooted in our love for

plants and nature.

In domestic settings, our gardens

serve as venues for gatherings, where

our friends and family bond amidst our

favourite plants. In my case, I spend a

great deal of time telling my loved ones

how keen I am on rewilding which I

hope then excuses the overgrown chaos.

Community allotments and shared

gardening projects further enhance

social ties by bringing neighbours

together with a common aim- to

cultivate vegetables, herbs, and

both ornamental and edible flowers.

Community Allotments sometimes

have cooking facilities so that groups

can prepare and eat their produce.

Gardening and then eating the food

together is such a gift for the soul.

Really uplifting.

The act of gardening within parks

and gardens contributes hugely to

the environmental health of the local

area. Plants act as natural air purifiers,

absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing

oxygen while filtering pollutants. So,

think of that as you bring another

barrow load of plants home from your

latest plant sale! No excuses needed;

you really are saving the planet.

Thoughtful horticulture is a

cornerstone of biodiversity in parks

and gardens. The careful selection and

cultivation of certain plants create

habitats for important pollinators such

as bees, butterflies, and birds. The more

diverse your planting the better. It is

worth remembering that plants with

single flowers which have petals in a

single row around the flower’s centre

will attract more pollinators than

doubles will with their increased number

of petals in multiple layers.

Domestic gardeners play a vital role in

enhancing biodiversity when they plant

pollinator-friendly flowers, create and

maintain ponds for aquatic species, and

leave wild corners to create habitats.

Parks, with their expansive horticultural

landscapes, contribute on a larger

scale by preserving ecosystems and

promoting environmental sustainability.

Domestic gardens are ideal spaces to

adopt sustainable horticultural practices.

Composting organic waste, practicing

crop rotation in vegetable patches, and

using rainwater harvesting systems all

reduce environmental footprints. Public

Gardens such as Great Dixter and Knepp

Castle lead the way in sustainable

horticulture by implementing

conservation projects and showcasing

eco-friendly planting techniques.

The horticultural richness of

parks and domestic gardens brings

immense benefits to us humans.

From supporting mental and physical

health to fostering community and

biodiversity, these spaces provide a

holistic way to improve life. Investing

in horticulture, whether on a personal

or community level, ensures a greener,

healthier, and more connected world for

generations to come.

So, off you all go to your nearest green

space, ( I have heard that Bates Green

Garden is extremely good) and embrace

all that June has to offer.

Enjoy your gardens in June.

EASTBOURNE BID (BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT) with Luke Johnson, Operations Manager

SUMMER IS COMING – AND SO IS

A PACKED EVENTS SCHEDULE

AS we approach the summer months,

there’s a renewed sense of excitement

in the air — and here in Eastbourne, the

sunniest town in the UK, we’re getting

ready for a vibrant and energetic season in

the town centre. At Your Eastbourne BID,

we’re proud to be working closely with

partners across the town to bring a packed

schedule of events that not only promise

entertainment and enjoyment but also

support our brilliant local businesses.

From celebrating the creativity of our

youth to shining a spotlight on fresh,

local produce, from high-energy house

nights to world class international tennis

— there truly is something for everyone.

So, whether you’re a long-time local or a

first-time visitor, we invite you to make the

most of what’s on offer right here in the

heart of Eastbourne.

Youth Market — Friday 31st May, 10am–

4pm, Terminus Road — We’re kicking

off with a firm favourite — the return of

Eastbourne’s Youth Market. Taking place

along Terminus Road, this event offers

an opportunity to celebrate young local

Luke Johnson with The Good Grub, winner of Eastbourne’s Youth Market 2024

traders and makers. Expect a colourful

and creative range of stalls featuring

everything from handmade jewellery

and homemade baked treats to natural

skincare products and delicious street

food. It’s a brilliant way to support young

entrepreneurs and discover some truly

unique finds. We’re constantly impressed

by the talent and drive of these young

traders — and we’re sure you will be too.

Farmers Market — Friday 7th June,

9:30am–1:30pm, Towner Plaza — We’re

incredibly excited to launch Eastbourne’s

very first Farmers Market, a brand-new

initiative created in partnership with the

Towner Gallery and Eastbourne Food

Partnership. Held in the beautifully located

Towner Plaza, right in the cultural hub

of the Devonshire Quarter, this market is

all about celebrating local, seasonal, and

sustainable food.

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or

just fancy picking up some fresh produce

for the weekend, there’ll be plenty to

explore as well as some live music. Come

along and experience the best of Sussex’s

food scene in one place.

After Hours 2 House Night — Saturday

14th June, from 10pm, Cocktail Club

& Bear Club — For those looking for

nightlife with serious energy, After Hours

2 promises an unforgettable evening.

Organised by Shifty Events — the town’s

freshest and most dynamic event

organiser — this is the follow-up to their

sold-out debut night, and it’s already

building serious buzz.

Taking place across two of Eastbourne’s

top nightlife spots, Eastbourne Cocktail

Club and The Bear Club, After Hours 2

will feature house music legends Elliot

Crawford and Laero Club bringing nonstop

energy until the early hours. Expect a

packed dancefloor, an electric atmosphere,

and a community of like-minded music

lovers. Tickets are flying — so grab yours

now on Skiddle if you don’t want to miss

out. Please note: this event is strictly 18+,

and ID will be required.

And if that’s not enough, keep your eyes

peeled — Shifty Events have big plans

ahead, including what promises to be the

biggest one-day music festival Eastbourne

has ever seen, coming to Princes Park this

August. Watch this space!

Little Chelsea Summer Fayre — Saturday

21st June, All Day, Little Chelsea — Back for

another year, the Little Chelsea Summer

Fayre is a highlight of Eastbourne’s

community calendar. Little Chelsea,

known for its independent shops, artisan

cafés and creative flair — transforms into a

family-friendly fayre for the day.

It’s the perfect way to explore this

unique shopping area and support local

businesses while enjoying a great day

out. Whether you’re bringing the family,

meeting friends, or just wandering

through, the Summer Fayre promises

smiles all around.

Eastbourne Grand Slam — Sunday

23rd to Saturday 28th June, Terminus

Road — Finally, we’ll be bringing the thrill

of world-class tennis to the town centre

with the Eastbourne Grand Slam — a lively

celebration of the Lexus Eastbourne Open

tennis tournament. In collaboration with

the Lawn Tennis Association, we’re setting

up a giant screen on Terminus Road to

broadcast the centre court matches live, so

you can soak up the excitement without

needing a ticket to Devonshire Park.

We’ll also have interactive play zones

for kids, and mini tennis courts where

everyone — young or old — can pick up a

racket and have a go. It’s a great way to

experience the buzz of the tournament

while enjoying all that the town

centre has to offer.

So whatever your plans this summer,

make sure to take time to explore

Eastbourne’s town centre events

calendar. With sunshine and something

new every weekend, there’s never been

a better time to enjoy all that our town

centre has to offer.

Don’t forget — love local? Shop local!

We look forward to seeing you there!

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.newseastbourne JUNE 2025 REGULARS 21

FRIENDS OF EASTBOURNE HOSPITAL

STUNNING GARDENS OPEN

FOR EASTBOURNE HOSPITAL

ONCE again, the Friends are pleased

to offer a selection of local gardens

for visitors to enjoy over the summer.

Thanks to a wonderful team of

volunteers and the hard work of the

garden owners, visitors can spend time

admiring the gardens themselves, which

are often nestled in beautiful landscapes,

then sit back and enjoy a cup of

something along with some homemade

cake or scones. All gardens will have a

selection of stalls for visitors to browse,

and there will be a chance to win some

goodies to take home in the raffle.

The gardens are open from 10.30 am to

4 pm, and entry is by donation. This year

all the money raised at the gardens will

go towards the Friends fundraising for

the Eastbourne DGH, including £250,000

to complete a £1 million donation to the

new Sussex Surgical Centre. Visitors that

are tax payers are asked if Gift Aid can

be applied to their entry donation to add

another 25%. Due to the rural location

of some of the gardens it can sometimes

be tricky to pick up a signal to use a card

machine so we do advise you to bring

cash if you can.

As the gardens are all private gardens

we cannot always provide full access

for those with disabilities, but every

effort is made to make your visit as

easy as possible, including designated

parking areas close to the entrance. We

regret that dogs cannot be admitted

to the gardens.

The gardens we have open this year are:

• Wednesday 11 June Priesthawes

Farm, BN26 6QU

• Wednesday 18 June Friston

Place, BN20 0AH

• Wednesday 2 July Kitchenham

Farm, TN33 9NP

• Wednesday 16 July Ocklynge

Manor, BN21 2PG

• Saturday 2 August Hankham Hall

Cottage, BN24 5AH

• Wednesday 3 September

Knightsbridge House, BN27 4HH

• Saturday 13 September Folkington

Place, BN26 5SD

Each of these gardens has their own

beauty and highlights, from imaginative

planting, creative landscaping, beautiful

rose gardens, herbaceous borders,

historic features and in some cases,

sweeping views overlooking open

countryside and the South Downs. All

have a stunning beauty and offer a

tranquil space to wander and take it

all in.

More information can be found

at www.friendsdgh.org.uk/events/

open-gardens-2025

Like everything the Friends do, the

gardens could not go ahead without

the dedication of the volunteers. People

often ask at the gardens how they can

get involved and support the hospital by

volunteering and we are always keen

to hear from anyone that would like to

join our team.

There are lots of ways you can help:

you may fancy getting involved with the

open garden team, in which case have a

chat with some of the volunteers on the

day. You may prefer something on a more

regular basis throughout the year and

might like to help in the Friends shops or

on the trolley rounds. There are several

options available so either ring the

Friends office on 01323 749503 for an

informal chat or pop into the shop in the

main entrance of the hospital and speak

to the duty manager. There are also other

one-off fundraising events throughout

the year where extra help might be

needed so if there is something that takes

your fancy, do come forward.

The Friends are lucky to have the

support of the local community and over

1000 members. If you are not a member,

do consider joining. All members receive

the Friends magazine, Hospitality, by

post each quarter, which gives regular

updates on fundraising events and all

aspects of the Friends work. Membership

is only £10 per year or £30 for a lifetime

membership. The application form can

be found at www.friendsdgh.org.uk/

membership/individual-membership

We also offer corporate membership to

local businesses who get recognition in

our magazine and social media.

The motto of Friends of Eastbourne

Hospital is ‘Help us, help them, help you’

and there are so many ways you can do

this — visit a garden, volunteer in the

shop, become a member, use the Friends

shop when in the hospital or you might

like to run your own fundraising event,

in which case we can let you know how

we can help you.

A D V E R T I S E R P R O M O T I O N

New legal venture brings personal

touch back to Eastbourne

A FRESH new name is bringing a more

personal, community-focused approach to

legal services in Eastbourne. Reeve & Strutt

Conveyancing + Private Client is setting up

in the Enterprise Centre, offering a bespoke

alternative to the increasingly corporate

face of modern law firms.

The new business is the brainchild of Katie

Strutt, an experienced legal professional now

returning to her roots in Eastbourne (having

started her career with Mayo & Perkins).

Technically a trading name of the established

firm WHSS in Battle, this marks a shift in

style and philosophy — a new chapter, both

professionally and personally.

Katie is passionate about making legal services

more human again. “Conveyancing has been

undervalued and oversimplified,” she says.

“Too often, it’s treated like a numbers game by

faceless corporations. I want to bring it back

to being about people — real relationships,

personal service and community.”

With her husband, Chris Strutt, formerly one

of Eastbourne’s most respected conveyancing

solicitors, now retired, Katie sees this as her

opportunity to carry on a family tradition

of excellence in legal service. Chris intends

to be around the new office to support

this new venture.

Working alongside Katie is Sally Reeve,

Director of WHSS and a seasoned solicitor with

a strong reputation for private client work. Sally

says: “I enjoy being hands-on and making a real

difference to my clients’ experience of legal

matters”. Sally will ensure the firm’s clients

will have the benefit of her vast experience

in dealing with wills, powers of attorney,

administration of estates and trusts.

Katie explains: “I put the idea of expanding to

Eastbourne to Sally. She didn’t hesitate, seeing

the opportunity to serve a new community and

fully supported my ambition to build something

meaningful. Her backing and the freedom

she’s given me to shape this new venture has

been invaluable.”

Whether navigating the complexities of

buying and selling property or managing

sensitive private client matters, Reeve & Strutt

Conveyancing + Private Client aims to make the

process as smooth as possible.

Katie and Sally have thanked Denise and her

team at the Enterprise Centre, Alex from Bamb

and the team at Lightning Fibre for the support

they have given them in setting up the business

within the Enterprise community.

Call the team on 01323 397040 or visit

www.reeveandstrutt.com.

22 YOUR MP

JUNE 2025


NEWS FROM YOUR LIBERAL DEMOCRAT MP

JOSH BABARINDE

Support for Local Veterans

EVERY week, I enter the online

ballot to ask a question at Prime

Minister’s Questions (PMQs)—and

often try to catch the Speaker’s eye

in the Chamber too. Last month, I

was finally drawn from the ballot.

I decided to use this opportunity to

ask about a local war veteran, Staff

Sergeant Pauline Cole.

For the past six months, I’ve been

closely supporting Pauline, who

has been badly let down by the

system. She managed to receive

military compensation for injuries

sustained while serving our country.

Shockingly, this has resulted in her

Pension Credit being cut from £77 a

week to just £11.

This is because the Government

currently treats military

compensation as income, even

though civilian compensation is not

counted in the same way. As a result,

veterans like Pauline are being forced

to use their compensation to cover

day-to-day living costs—money that

should be protected and respected.

I first raised this injustice in

the House of Commons on

Remembrance Day last year and

have since met with Ministers

to push for change. But without

decisive Government action, I

decided to raise it directly at Prime

Minister’s Questions.

In response, the Prime Minister,

Keir Starmer agreed to ensure that

Pauline “gets the appropriate meeting

she wants and needs.” I’ll be holding

him to that promise.

I invited Pauline to watch on

from the public gallery. A truly

special moment in her fight to

end this injustice, which has now

dragged on for years.

It’s an honour to represent Pauline

— someone who has given so much

to this country.

We owe her, and every veteran,

a debt of gratitude. I will continue

fighting for justice for her and all

those who have served.

TACKLING DELAYS

IN EASTBOURNE’S

POSTAL SERVICE

Since becoming

Eastbourne’s MP,

I’ve heard from

dozens of residents

across our town

who are facing

serious delays in

receiving their post. These delays have

had real consequences — with many

Eastbourne folks telling me they’ve

missed medical appointments, had

vital medication arrive late, and had

difficulties paying bills on time.

Despite these challenges I want to

highlight that our posties and delivery

office staff are doing a brilliant job.

They go above and beyond to get us

our post, and they are not to blame

for these delays. I want to thank them

sincerely for everything they do.

The problem appears to be

systemic, not localised to one area.

Delays are affecting residents served

by both the Eastbourne and Westham

delivery offices, and similar issues

are cropping up in other parts of the

country too. This suggests a wider

issue within Royal Mail’s operations,

rather than with our hardworking

postal workers.

I first raised concerns with Royal

Mail shortly after I was elected,

providing them with a list of affected

postcodes based on reports from

residents. Despite repeated followups,

the problems persisted.

When we met with executives in

January, Royal Mail told us that the

delays stem from a mix of changes to

delivery rounds and long-term staff

sickness, with around 10% of the local

workforce off sick.

In early April, I escalated this

further by writing to OFCOM and the

Department for Business and Trade,

urging them to investigate these

persistent issues.

Last week, I met with senior Royal

Mail staff, including their Regional

Operations Director, to swiftly

demand action.

I have now been told that Royal

Mail has recruited additional postal

workers and has put support in

place to help long-term sick staff

return to work.

I’ll be watching my own letterbox

closely to see if these measures make

a real difference—and I’m ready to

call Royal Mail back into my office if

the problems continue.

Please do keep me updated on

your postal reliability, so I can

continue to press for improvements

on your behalf.

GET IN TOUCH!

As I approach the first-year

anniversary of my time as

Eastbourne’s MP, I wanted to remind

readers that my team and I are here to

help and support you.

You can email me at josh.babarinde.

mp@parliament.uk or swing by my

office at 100 Seaside Road during

our drop-in hours of 1000-1200 each

weekday, where a member of my

team will be around to chat.

FALCONRY

PHOTOGRAPHY

WORKSHOPS

IN THE HEART OF EAST SUSSEX

Budding or experienced photographers

are being offered the opportunity to

take part in a new series of workshops

designed to develop skills and spend time

with some stunning birds of prey.

Set within the stunning grounds of

Herstmonceux Castle and Gardens, the

workshops, in association with East

Sussex Falconry, allows photographers to

learn, or practice their skills through a

series of exercises to secure some

breathtaking photographs with our

experienced Photographer and Falconer.

For only £135 per photographer, the

full-day experience will take place on

Monday, 7th July, with a maximum group

size of ten people.

For more information, please call

07970 245934 or scan the QR code.

IDEAL

GIFT

VOUCHER

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne JUNE 2025 MOTORING 23

All-new Electric Renault 4 set to spark nostalgia

A beloved motoring icon

returns this summer with a bold

electric twist.

Renault has unveiled pricing

and details for the all-new Renault

4 E-Tech electric, a modern

reinterpretation of the classic French

hatchback that defined practicality

and charm for generations. When

order books open in July, prices will

start from just £26,995 on the road.

The Renault 4 E-Tech electric

combines vintage appeal with

cutting-edge innovation. Echoing the

spirit of the original 1960s Renault 4,

the latest model has been designed

for modern families who want style,

space, and sustainability — all in one

cleverly packaged vehicle.

From launch, the electric Renault 4

will be available in three trim levels:

Evolution, Techno, and the top-tier

Iconic. Each level brings added

features and refinement, with the

latter two offering the option of a

canvas “plein sud” electric sunroof —

a contemporary take on the open-air

driving experience that was once the

hallmark of the classic 4L.

A limited £150 “R Pass” gives eager

fans early access to place their

orders ahead of the public launch.

As a sweetener, customers who use

Mobilize Financial Services to fund

their vehicle will receive three years

of free servicing.

Despite its retro inspirations, the

Renault 4 E-Tech electric is very

much a car of the future. Built with

family life in mind, it offers increased

ground clearance and specially tuned

suspension for a smoother ride,

whether navigating country roads

or city streets. Its spacious cabin and

smart layout also ensure long trips are

as comfortable as they are efficient.

Visually, it pays homage to its

heritage with tasteful nods to the past.

The signature front grille is now a

sleek, illuminated 1.45-metre piece

(available on Techno trim and up),

while the distinctive three-part rear

lights have been reimagined with

modern flair. Sculpted door panels,

a classic rear quarter window, and

roof bars reflect the utilitarian charm

of the original.

At 4.14 metres in length with a

generous 2.62m wheelbase, the new

Renault 4 is slightly larger than its

sibling, the Renault 5, offering an

impressive 16.4cm of knee room in

the back and class-leading headroom

of over 85cm. Families will also

love the 420-litre boot (expandable

to a cavernous 1,405 litres with the

rear seats down), hands-free power

tailgate, and a range of clever storage

options—including a hidden 55-litre

underfloor compartment ideal for

stowing the charging cable.

Tech lovers won’t be disappointed.

Renault’s OpenR Link infotainment

system is standard across the range,

featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen

with wireless Android Auto and Apple

CarPlay. Higher trims also include

built-in Google services like Maps and

Play Store apps, along with a separate

10-inch digital display for the driver.

Powering the Renault 4 E-Tech

electric is a 52kWh battery and 110kW

(150hp) motor that delivers 0-62mph

acceleration in 8.2 seconds and a

WLTP range of up to 247 miles. A One

Pedal driving feature, available from

Techno trim, enhances regenerative

braking for smoother deceleration —

ideal for urban driving. Charging is

speedy, too: the battery can go from

15% to 80% in just 30 minutes using

a 100kW DC charger, or achieve a

full charge in under five hours on an

11kW AC connection.

Safety and driver convenience are

also high on the agenda. The Renault

4 offers up to 26 advanced driver

assistance systems (ADAS), including

blind spot monitoring, hands-free

parking, adaptive cruise control, lane

centring, and My Safety Shield—a

feature allowing drivers to quickly

activate their preferred safety settings

with a single button press.

Buyers will be able to choose from

six exterior colours, including a

brand-new shade, Hauts-de-France

Green, a subtle tribute to the original

1960s blue. Glacier White, Urban

Grey, Diamond Black, Carmin

Red, and Cumulus Blue round out

the palette, with contrasting black

roof and bonnet options available

for extra flair. All versions ride on

striking 18-inch diamond-cut alloy

wheels as standard.

Already turning heads in the

industry, the Renault 4 E-Tech

electric has scooped the title of

Electric Car of the Year at the TopGear.

com Electric Car Awards 2025 — a

promising start for a vehicle poised to

bring a new spark to the roads.

R Pass holders can place their

orders from 1st July. With a starting

price of just £26,995, the new Renault

4 E-Tech electric is set to reignite a

legacy — one electric mile at a time.

ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF

CARS AND COMMERCIALS

REPAIRS AND SERVICING

AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

01323 573016

Find us on Facebook

FINMERE ROAD

EASTBOURNE

BN22 8QL

Located behind Big Tesco

24 TRAVEL

JUNE 2025


Margaritaville view

Seven mile bridge

From South Beach to Sunset Pier…

an iconic Florida Family Road Trip!

BY JENNA BROWN

SUN, sea, sand and the open road…

Driving the iconic route from

Miami to Key West has been on our

bucket list for years. But, having

young children, meant putting this

adventure on hold for a little while

— until this year, when we finally

went all in with booster seats and

buggy in tow and turned our dream

trip into a reality!

IN THE WORDS OF

WILL SMITH; “I’M

GOING TO MIAMI!”

We started our road trip in the vibrant

city of Miami. After deliberately

choosing a late afternoon flight from

the UK, I was a little apprehensive

about arriving in Miami at 9pm (2am

UK time!) with the kids, but it was a

good decision. The girls slept a little on

the plane, and on arrival at our hotel

meant they could go straight to bed.

We took a few days to unwind and

Jenna holding baby alligator

enjoy everything Miami has to offer.

We hired some bikes and biked to

South Pointe Pier, we played crazy

golf at Brickell (did a little shopping),

we spent some time enjoying South

Beach, did a boat tour, followed

the TikTok trail to an amazing

Cuban sandwich shop at Bayside

Marketplace, and even took a trip to

the everglades alligator farm, where

we got to hold a baby alligator!

We picked up our car from Sixt,

ready to drive one of the most iconic

routes in the US!

I can’t overstate how important the

right vehicle is when travelling with

kids. Comfort, space and safety is all

that matters — but when the vehicle

feels like part of the holiday experience

itself, rather than just a way to get from

A to B, you know you’ve got it right!

When we arrived at the Sixt branch

on Collins Avenue, we could not have

been more pleased with our choice.

With a wide range of vehicles and a

branch team that was friendly and

GMC Yukon

so helpful, the team at Sixt really did

make the whole process super easy.

The car we ‘adopted’ for the week was

a GMC Yukon Denali — a luxurious

beast of a vehicle that had plenty of

room for our suitcases, pram, and

the usual toddler paraphernalia!

This car really was part of the family

for those few days, and we could not

have been happier.

With the car packed, the air con

humming and the girl’s choice

of music blaring out from the

speakers, we hit the road leaving the

high-rises behind.

A SLICE OF FLORIDA

The journey from Miami to Key West

is roughly 165 miles and should take

about 4 hours; making it easily do-able

in just one day. But my advice is to

make sure you allow more time than

you’ll need because you’ll definitely

want to take it slow and stop en route…

even if it’s just for a slice of key lime pie

from The Key Lime Pie factory, which

I can confirm did not disappoint!

Once our stomachs were full with

our first taste of the Florida Keys’ most

famous food, it wasn’t long before

we hit Betsy the Lobster; located just

outside the entrance to Rain Barrel

village in Islamorada. Measuring over

nine metres long, Betsy is quirky,

colourful, and completely impossible

to ignore, a perfect photo opportunity!

From there, the drive became

increasingly impressive until we

reached the Seven Mile bridge. With

Betsy the lobster

nothing but blue either side, it honestly

felt like the road was suspended

between sky and sea and is easily the

most picturesque road I’ve ever driven!

THE END OF THE ROAD

We arrived in Key West late afternoon

and checked into the Margaritaville

Beach House Resort; located perfectly

just a short walk away from Smathers

Beach (perfect for young children)

and a short drive away from the

bustling Duval Street.

As our trip to the Keys coincided with

our 10-year wedding anniversary,

on arrival, our room was kindly

upgraded to a King Suite with an

Ocean view. The views of Smathers

Beach from our balcony were

simply breathtaking and confirmed

instantly we’d made the right choice

booking the Margaritaville! The

room itself was spacious, clean, and

inviting, whilst tastefully decorated in

island-inspired décor.

Once settled in, and the kids had

discovered the resort’s lagoon-style

pool, it was then time for us to hop

onto the resort’s complimentary

shuttle to explore Duval Street, the

heart of Key West.

As soon as we stepped off the

shuttle, the laid-back island vibe hit us

straight away — flip flops, golf carts,

bikes and chickens freely wandering

the street! The perfect place to slow

down and unwind.

THE SCENIC ROUTE HOME

After a couple of days experiencing

Key West and enjoying good food;

from lobster mac and cheese to bacontopped

banana bread (and of course

copious amounts of Key Lime Pie), it

was time for us to head back up North

to Fort Lauderdale. Although we were

returning our hire car to a different

Sixt location, returning the Yukon was

just as smooth as picking it up

FINAL THOUGHTS

This road trip had everything we

hoped for and more — stunning

scenery, wildlife encounters, delicious

food, and countless family moments.

Travelling with small children isn’t

always easy, but doing it with them

turned out to be the best way to

experience it.

Driving the overseas Highway

with the sea sparkling either side,

the sunroof open and two giggling

voices in the back is a memory I’ll

treasure forever.

4 3 5 9 2 6 7 8 1

Latest local news, visit: eastsussex.news/eastbourne JUNE 2025 PUZZLES 25

PUZZLES

WORDSEARCH

Lumps and Bumps

Can you find all the listed words hidden in the grid below?

They may run either forwards or backwards, horizontally,

vertically or diagonally, but always in a straight line.

BALL

BLOCK

BUNION

CHUNK

CLUMP

CONCRETION

EXCRESCENCE

GROWTH

HUMP

INJURY

KNUR

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PUSTULE

SLUB

SWELLING

TUBER

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C

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WE’VE GOT THE ANSWER ON HOW TO REDUCE

YOUR HOUSEHOLD BILLS! Call 07377 584363

G C J C C Y R U J N I O R

Q J B M O B U L S O G X M

D R A J F N G Y J D B C K

F L V S R H C G C E X H U

T K O W D Y T R V T M U O

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Q H T W O R G Y Q F H Z M

M U Y W Q F B U N I O N D

CODEWORD

Each letter of the alphabet has a different number. Substitute numbers

for letters to make words that will complete the puzzle. The letters at

the side and the check-box below the grid may help you keep track.

18 6 2 16 7 11 12 26 11 18 24 26 10 25

21 26 2 3 21 1 13

7 12 10 18 6 10 14 3 17 21 6 17 11

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water (4)

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after each verse (6)

10 Surplus to need (5)

11 Principal actor (4)

12 Boundary, rim (4)

13 Sour-tasting yellow

fruits (6)

15 Overtake (4)

17 Soap froth (4)

19 Placed at an angle (6)

20 Small opening in the

skin (4)

21 Underside (4)

22 Passage between rows

of seats (5)

24 Precious red

gemstones (6)

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26 Takes a nap (6)

27 Pay attention (6)

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3 Go in (5)

CROSSWORD

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9

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22 23

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5 Tree of the maple family (8)

6 Female wild cat (7)

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14 Special and significant

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18 Unhealthy state of

body or mind (7)

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23 Exchange for money (4)

SUDOKU CHALLENGE

Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in

such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal

row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.

4 9 6 1

7 3 4

1 5

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SOLUTIONS

7 1 6 2 4 9 3 5 8

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5 4 9 3 6 8 2 1 7

8 5 7 6 9 3 1 2 4

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SUDOKU

T U L I P S E A S T W A R D

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© Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)

CODEWORD

A C C E P T S I L I C A

R N R Y I B

B O A T O C H O R U S

A E X T R A N C

S T A R M E D G E

I L E M O N S S

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S L E E P S L I S T E N

CROSSWORD

G C J C C Y R U J N I O R

Q J B M O B U L S O G X M

D R A J F N G Y J D B C K

F L V S R H C G C E X H U

T K O W D Y T R V T M U O

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F A D O C B S U A U P O E

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T Y Q R L Y P J U P H O G

J L R U N K Q L L L W M C

E X C R E S C E N C E P R

Q H T W O R G Y Q F H Z M

M U Y W Q F B U N I O N D

WORDSEARCH

26 SPORT

JUNE 2025


Borough announces

appointment of new

First Team Manager

Emma Raducanu confirmed

to appear at popular

tennis championships

Matt Gray

THE man who rewrote Sutton

United’s history books is back in

the spotlight.

Matt Gray, 43, the architect of

their stunning National League

title win and maiden promotion to

the EFL, now takes charge at The

ReachTV Stadium bringing ambition,

experience and a taste for glory.

Gray didn’t stop at promotion. In

their League Two debut, he defied

all expectations by steering Sutton

to an impressive eighth-place finish,

just shy of the play-offs and led them

all the way to Wembley in the EFL

Trophy Final, narrowly missing out

on silverware after extra time against

Rotherham United.

Borough Chairman Simon Leslie

said of the appointment: “I’m

absolutely buzzing to welcome Matt

as our new First Team Manager.

“He’s full of energy, fire, and that

relentless belief that anything is

possible. What he achieved at Sutton

proves it: give him a challenge, and

he’ll find a way to win.

“We sparked a movement last

season. We brought belief back to this

club and gave our fans something to

dream about. Now with Matt’s energy

driving us forward, we’re not just

dreaming — we’re daring.

“The next chapter is about to

played out, and I can’t wait to

write it with him.

“Last season, we lit the fire. We

changed perceptions, rewrote the

narrative, and brought pride back

to Eastbourne Borough. Now, with

Matt’s vision, we’re ready to take the

leap from dreamers to doers.”

As a player, Gray had his career

cut short at just 25 due to injury

whilst captain of Havant &

Waterlooville, having also played for

Hayes and Barnet.

Having retired, the former

Tottenham Hotspur youth

product began coaching, and was

assistant manager of Eastleigh

before stepping up into the EFL as

assistant at Aldershot Town and

Crawley Town. He joined Sutton’s

coaching staff in 2018.

The new First Team boss will be

joined by Jason Goodliffe, who

has been named the new Assistant

Manager. The duo worked together

at Sutton United, whilst Goodliffe also

has experience as assistant at Woking

and Boreham Wood.

THE entry lists for the Lexus

Eastbourne Open have been

confirmed, with star line-ups

in both the women’s and draws

in the final event before The

Championships, Wimbledon.

On the women’s side, which

includes six players who have

featured in the world’s top 10,

Britain’s Emma Raducanu returns to

Eastbourne after reaching last year’s

quarter finals, and as she looks to

claim her maiden title on grass.

The defending Wimbledon ladies’

singles champion Barbora Krejcikova

will join Raducanu on the south coast,

as she seeks to prepare for her title

defence in the best possible way.

Both will have to contend with

reigning Eastbourne champion Daria

Kasatkina of Australia, two-time

Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur, and

rising British star Sonay Kartal.

On the men’s side, the USA’s world

number four Taylor Fritz returns to

Eastbourne as defending champion,

and looks to add another grass-court

title to his collection having already

won three times at Devonshire Park.

British No.2 Jacob Fearnley has

committed to the event, having

experienced a meteoric rise from

525 in the world to 55 in just 12

months kickstarted by his first ATP

Challenger title in Nottingham last

summer. Meanwhile, champion

of the 2024 edition of the HSBC

Championships Tommy Paul, and

Czechia’s Jakub Mensik, who claimed

the biggest title of his career earlier

in the season by winning the Masters

1000 Miami Open, are also among

those looking to dethrone Fritz.

Alongside the men’s and women’s

draws, the Lexus Eastbourne Open

will once again feature wheelchair

tennis action, with an ITF 1 Series

event set to feature several of

Britain’s leading players, including

multiple Paralympic gold medallist

Gordon Reid in the men’s, British

women’s wheelchair No.1 Lucy

Shuker, and Paris 2024 Paralympic

medallists Andy Lapthorne and Greg

Slade in the quads.

Rebecca James, Tournament

Director of the Lexus Eastbourne

Open, said, “Eastbourne has always

been one of the highlights of the

season for players and the strength

of the field coming to Devonshire

Park this summer is testament to that.

With Taylor Fritz leading the men’s

pack in pursuit of a fourth Eastbourne

crown, four grand slam champions

on the women’s side, with Emma

Raducanu, Barbora Krejcikova,

Jelena Ostapenko and Sofia Kenin as

well as last year’s champion in Daria

Kasatkina, and a wheelchair draw

stacked with Paralympic pedigree,

it’s set to be another fantastic week

of competition.”

New era for Sussex Netball as Mavericks

build future from ground up

THE East Sussex Mavericks Netball

Club has announced the successful

completion of its first-ever senior

squad trials, marking a major

milestone in the club’s journey

to becoming a regional force in

competitive netball.

The next chapter begins with

the launch of the Mavericks’

junior squads, opening up new

opportunities for young players

across the county.

Launched with a bold vision to

recruit and develop athletes capable

of competing at regional level, East

Sussex Mavericks has quickly gained

momentum. Over the past few

months, the club has built excitement

within the local netball community,

not only recruiting adult players but

also drawing interest from coaches,

umpires, and volunteers passionate

about shaping the future of the

sport in Sussex.

East Sussex Mavericks recognised

a significant gap between local-level

netball and regional competition — a

gap that often leaves talented players

facing a ‘sink or swim’ scenario. In

response, we’ve created a dedicated

development pathway designed

to bridge that divide. East Sussex

Maverick’s mission is to nurture

and prepare athletes with the

structured support, expert coaching,

and performance guidance they

need to thrive at the next level. By

focusing on both skill progression

and athlete mindset, they’re

committed to helping players make a

confident, sustainable transition into

higher-level netball.

The club’s inaugural senior

trials, held earlier this month,

saw a fantastic turnout of talented

adult players from across the

region, all eager to be part of a

fresh, ambitious programme.

With selection now underway,

the Mavericks are preparing for a

competitive debut season.

Now, the focus shifts to the next

generation of talent. The Mavericks’

junior squads are set to launch in

the coming weeks, welcoming

aspiring netballers aged 14–18. The

club is committed to developing

young athletes in a supportive, highperformance

environment, with

top-tier coaching and clear pathways

for progression.

“We’ve been blown away by the

level of enthusiasm and talent at

our first trials,” said a spokesperson

for the club. “Launching our junior

squads is the next step in building

something long-term. Mavericks

is about more than one team — it’s

about creating a community of

driven players and people who

love the game.”

The club continues to invite interest

from players, coaches, umpires,

and committee members who

want to be part of something new,

exciting, and impactful in the East

Sussex netball scene.

VISIT ELITEMEDICAL.UK FOR SAME DAY PHONE, HOME,

FACE-TO-FACE AND VIDEO APPOINTMENTS

CALL 0300 304 6260 TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

HOME VISITS & URGENT CARE SERVICE

Elite Health and Urgent Care Clinic is dedicated

to delivering affordable, premium

Advanced bookings or urgent

private healthcare.

on the day. Simply visit

elitemedical.uk or call

0300 304 6260

for more details.

We bring healthcare to your doorstep with

our home visit service, offering medical care

and assessments in the comfort of your own

home.

TELEPHONE OR VIDEO

CONSULTATIONS

For those who prefer remote

consultations, we provide both

telephone and video options,

ensuring you receive the medical

advice and support you need from

anywhere.

FACE-TO-FACE

ASSESSMENTS

Visit our clinic in Hailsham for

in-person consultations and

assessments by our experienced

medical professionals.

HOME VISIT SERVICE

We bring healthcare to your doorstep

with our home visit service, offering

medical care and assessments in the

comfort of your own home.

FALLS SERVICE

We provide specialised support for

patients who have experienced a fall,

ensuring rapid response and

appropriate care.

CONTACT US AND BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT

BOOK ONLINE

ON YOUR COMPUTER

OR MOBILE DEVICE

JUST VISIT

ELITEMEDICAL.UK

ELITEMEDICAL.UK

CALL US

TO DISCUSS YOUR

PERSONAL REQUIRE-

MENTS, CALL US ON

0300 304 6260

ADDRESS

2 North Street,

Hailsham,

East Sussex

BN27 1DQ

ACCESSIBLE HEALTHCARE WHEN YOU NEED IT THE MOST

Your local property people

Charles Century Estate Agents is proud to offer a

fresh, modern property service in Hailsham and the

surrounding area. Since opening last year, we’ve

built a strong reputation for friendly, professional

support and honest advice.

We know every move matters. Whether buying or

selling, our approachable team will guide you through

each step. From cosy cottages to spacious homes, we

understand the local market and what matters to you.

Offering honest advice, regular updates, and tailored

support, we aim to make your move stress-free.

We also offer a dedicated lettings service for both

landlords and tenants. Landlords can count on us

for dependable property management and tenant

sourcing, while tenants can depend on us to find

quality homes.

At Charles Century, we believe a home is more than

just a property — it’s where life happens. That’s why

we’re passionate about delivering a personal, modern

estate agency experience shaped around your needs.

Whatever your plans, you’ll find genuine care, expert

advice, and reliable service with us.

Speak to one of our team to unlock

our summer special offers

Come and see us at

Or call us for a chat

1, The Quintins 01323 302226

Scan to find out

Hailsham BN27 1DP

hailsham@charlescentury.co.uk

what your property

is worth now.

Also in Crowborough

01892 280435

2 The Broadway, Crowborough TN6 1DF

crow@charlescentury.co.uk

www.charlescentury.co.uk

Eastbourne News, June 2025, Issue 13

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