Bexhill News, December 2025, Issue 42

DECEMBER 2025 | ISSUE 42

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

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

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GRAFFITI FIGHT CONTINUES — P4

CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON — P12

BEXHILL REMEMBERS — P14

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2 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news

WELCOME

MUCH like most residents, I’m

absolutely appalled by the mess

caused by the Bio Beads release

from the Southern Water Treatment

Works in Eastbourne.

I’m sure we will be seeing the

devastating effects of this for many

years to come and someone must

be held responsible for the failure.

Watching the scenes on TV of the

millions of beads that are being washed

up on our shores is terrible.

In this edition, we speak to the

incredible volunteers who have been

helping in the clean-up and what you

should do if you discover these beads

on the beaches. It’s so important that

as many residents as possible help us

coastline recover from this disaster.

In more happier news, it was great

see the community come together for

the Christmas light switch on recently.

As we head into the festive season, it’s

so important that we all try to support

our local shops on the High Street for

our Christmas gifts, as it’s becoming

a very tricky time out there for all our

independent retailers.

Also, last month saw our annual

remembrance event take place in the

town. It’s always a moving ceremony

and it always amazes me how many

people come out to pay their respects,

which is great to see. We have some

amazing photographs from the day you

can enjoy on page 14.

Finally, as another year whizzes

past, I’d like to thank all our readers

and advertisers for supporting our

publications as it’s down to your

support that keeps our publications

going and free to read.

Have a great Christmas and

Happy New Year.

Paul Gibson, Group Editor

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without express permission of the editor.

Driver sentenced for

TikTok trend gone wrong

A driver who left his friend braindamaged

after a TikTok trend went

wrong has been sentenced in court.

Connor Pace had met up with a

group of fellow car enthusiasts at

Ravenside Retail Park, Bexhill, on the

evening of 17 January this year.

The group had spoken about a viral

trend which involves riding on the

bonnet of a moving car. Pace, 23,

decided to carry out this manoeuvre

in his Seat Leon and one of them

voluntarily climbed onto his bonnet

while the car was stationary. Pace

proceeded to drive around the car

park for approximately 17 seconds,

before the victim fell off and struck

his head on the ground.

An ambulance arrived within

minutes of being called and the

man was taken to hospital with

a serious head injury. He did not

regain consciousness for almost a

month, when it was confirmed he

had suffered a traumatic brain injury

requiring multiple surgeries and

medical procedures.

In his impact statement, the

23-year-old victim, from St Leonards,

said he has been left severely

affected by the incident both

physically and mentally.

His mother, who has returned from

Cornwall to Sussex to be his full-time

carer, added that the incident has

changed her life forever.

Pace, a bus driver, of St Helens Park

Road, Hastings, was interviewed

Councillor vows to continue

pressure over graffiti problem

EFFORTS to resolve persistent

graffiti vandalism on the Ministry

of Defence (MOD) site in Bexhill

have taken a significant step

forward recently, as Councillor

Connor Winter met with senior

representatives from both the

Leisure Centre and the MOD to

coordinate a long-term solution.

The graffiti, which has repeatedly

appeared on the side of the MOD

building, has been a growing concern

for residents, who have raised

issues regarding the visual impact,

security of the site, and the ease with

which vandals have been able to

access the area.

In a series of meetings, the Leisure

Centre Manager and the Estates

Manager for the Ministry of Defence

both confirmed a strong willingness

to work collaboratively to address

the problem. According to Cllr

Winter, both parties recognised

that tackling the issue requires

coordinated action from all

organisations with responsibility for

the surrounding land.

One of the most concrete measures

announced is the installation of

additional CCTV cameras by the

Leisure Centre. The enhanced

surveillance is expected to

under police caution and denied

careless or dangerous driving.

However, following an investigation

which included taking witness

statements and reviewing CCTV

from the scene, he was charged

with causing serious injury by

dangerous driving.

He pleaded guilty to the offence

at an earlier hearing and appeared

before Lewes Crown Court

on Wednesday 26 November,

where he was sentenced to

16 months’ imprisonment,

suspended for two years.

He was also disqualified from

driving for two years and ordered

to carry out 300 hours of unpaid

work. In addition, he will be

monitored by an electronic tag

between 8pm and 8am for the

next eight weeks, and must take

an extended re-test should he wish

to drive again.

significantly reduce unauthorised

access and deter repeat offences.

“This is an important step in

preventing the site from being

targeted again,” said Cllr Blagrove.

“Better visibility means fewer

opportunities for vandalism.”

The MOD has also committed

to taking a proactive approach to

removing the graffiti, but with one

key condition: the clean-up will

take place once Rother District

Council repairs the hole in the fence

bordering the site. The damaged

fencing has long been identified

as the primary access point for

offenders, and its repair is viewed as

essential before any long-term cleanup

can be effective.

In an effort to ensure the issue

is resolved comprehensively,

Cllr Winter has also reached

out to other local authorities

across the UK who have

successfully reduced graffiti

vandalism in similar locations.

Several councils shared their

strategies, offering insight into

best practices ranging from

environmental design changes to

community reporting schemes.

Connor said: “These conversations

have been incredibly useful. It’s clear

that this issue isn’t unique to Bexhill,

but it’s also clear that with the right

mix of prevention, cooperation, and

enforcement, it can be brought under

control. We’re committed to applying

those lessons here.”

The Councillor has pledged to

continue monitoring the situation

closely, promising residents that

the work will not stop until a lasting

solution is fully in place.

4 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


Bexhill leads the way in

innovative hospital project

A PIONEERING project born in

Bexhill is now inspiring hospitals

across Sussex to rethink how they

support patients to stay active and

independent during their recovery.

The Stronger for Life in Hospital

project, which began at the Irvine

Rehabilitation Unit at Bexhill

Hospital, is tackling the serious

effects of deconditioning - the rapid

loss of strength and mobility that

can occur when people spend long

periods in hospital.

Now, thanks to the success of

the pilot at Bexhill, this innovative

approach is being rolled out to

hospitals across the county, helping

hundreds more people stay active,

recover faster and feel more

confident during their hospital stay.

The project first launched in

August 2024, when Active Sussex

health instructors, provided by 20/20

Health and supported by Active

Rother, began working alongside

physiotherapists and support

workers at the Irvine Unit.

Together, they delivered exercise

sessions aimed at helping stroke and

rehabilitation patients maintain their

strength and independence.

The results were so positive that

the model has now been expanded,

with the Bexhill sessions livestreamed

into other hospitals,

including Crawley, Eastbourne,

Brighton and Rye.

Jules Neuss, Service Manager at East

Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, said:

“The laughter I hear coming from

the sessions is fantastic. Patients love

it, and it’s so lovely to hear joy and

motivation in a setting that can be

challenging for people when progress

feels slow. It’s fantastic that we can do

this as a collaboration.”

The live-streamed sessions are

led by Sue Hull, a health instructor

from 20/20 Health.

Wearing a headset and microphone,

Sue leads the exercises for patients

in the room while also engaging

with those joining virtually from

hospitals across Sussex.

She said: “My job is to entertain

them for an hour and get them

moving. Smiling and laughter

are great for everyone, and it’s so

rewarding to see people improving.

It’s the best job I’ve ever had.”

Research from the Acute Frailty

Network shows that within just 24

hours of lying still, people can begin

to lose muscle strength and fitness.

After a week in bed, muscle power

can drop by up to 10 per cent, and

circulation and breathing capacity

can decline significantly.

Beyond the physical effects,

inactivity can also reduce confidence,

independence and wellbeing.

The Stronger for Life in Hospital

project aims to prevent this by

encouraging movement through

friendly, guided exercise sessions that

boost both body and mind.

The initiative is part of a new

“one workforce” approach

to rehabilitation, where NHS

teams, voluntary organisations

and community health

partners work together across

traditional boundaries.

Karen Poole, Allied Health

Professions Rehabilitation Consultant

at East Sussex Healthcare NHS

Trust and Clinical Director for

Rehabilitation & Intermediate Care

at NHS Sussex, said: “In the first

stage, we tested a new way of working

with our community partners to

deliver activity sessions within

hospital wards.

“The aim was to keep people active

and reduce the risks associated

with deconditioning, helping

patients feel stronger and improving

their mental health.

“Through the success of that phase

at Bexhill, we saw an opportunity

to live-stream sessions across

multiple hospital sites. This means

more patients across Sussex can

now take part in these group

sessions and benefit.”

Behind the scenes, 20/20 Health

has provided the equipment, training

and technical setup needed to

make the live-streaming possible,

ensuring every participating site can

join in seamlessly.

Ross Joannides, Strategic

Relationship Manager for Health

at Active Sussex, added: “The

Stronger for Life in Hospital

project is a fantastic example of

what can happen when we work as

one Sussex system.

“By combining NHS expertise with

the skills of our community and

voluntary partners, we’re creating

a stronger, more flexible workforce

that can reach more patients.

“It’s great that Bexhill has led

the way on this - showing how

collaboration and innovation can

transform care.”

While the project is currently

focused on hospital-based patients,

the team hopes to explore ways to

expand the model further, potentially

streaming sessions into people’s

homes and care homes to support

recovery after discharge.

For now, the Irvine Unit continues

to lead the way in showing what’s

possible when compassion, creativity

and collaboration come together.

“This project shows how thinking

differently about rehabilitation can

make a huge difference to people’s

lives,” said Ross. “And it all started

right here in Bexhill.”

Carer named winner at

inaugural Andor Awards

JASON Field, a care assistant at

Collington Park Lodge care home

in Bexhill-on-Sea, has been named

the winner of the Overcoming

Challenges category at the firstever

Andor Awards.

The ceremony, held aboard the

elegant Dixie Queen Paddle Steamer

in London, brought together

professionals from across the health

and social care sector to celebrate

those who go above and beyond

in their roles.

The event also raised funds

for The Care Workers’ Charity,

which provides financial and

mental health support to care

workers across the UK.

After serving 15 years in the British

Army, Jason joined Collington Park

Lodge in 2025. His journey into care

was deeply personal, inspired by the

memory of his late fiancée.

Bianca Wilson, General Manager

at Collington Park Lodge, said: "I

started working in care to honour

the memory of my late fiancée, but it

stopped being a job when I realised

how much I loved it. It makes me

proud to know the residents trust me

and allow me to be part of their world.

Winning this award means so much

because it reminds me that no matter

what life throws at you, you can still

make a difference. To be recognised

for doing something I genuinely love

is incredibly humbling."

"We are all so proud of Jason. His

compassion, strength and willingness

to step in and help in any situation

make him an outstanding carer and

colleague. He’s someone everyone

can rely on - a real safe pair of

hands. His journey is one of real

courage, and this award couldn’t

be more deserved. Jason embodies

what care is all about - heart,

resilience and humanity.”

Collington Park Lodge, part of

Oyster Care Homes, offers 24-hour

residential, dementia and respite

care for up to 66 people. With ensuite

bedrooms, bright communal spaces

and landscaped gardens, the home

provides inclusive-fee packages

designed to give peace of mind to

residents and their families.

You can meet Jason and the team

at Collington Park Lodge during

the home’s Warm and Toasty

Wednesday events, held every

week from 11:00am.

All are welcome to drop in for a bowl

of homemade soup, crusty bread and

friendly conversation with residents

and team members.

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6 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


Local traders reveal scale of

shoplifting crisis at Bexhill meeting

MORE than thirty business owners

from Bexhill attended a meeting

recently (6 November), with some

telling the panel they’ve considered

‘shutting up shop’, due to the crime.

The meeting held at the De La

Warr Pavilion was organised by

The Bexhill Chamber of Commerce

alongside MP Kieran Mullan and local

councillors for the town.

Attendees heard from Sussex

Police’s Chief Inspector for Hastings

and Rother, Simon Yates, who said

tackling shoplifting in Bexhill is a

real challenge, which they are taking

seriously. An increased Police

presence in the town was promised,

whilst he said he really feels for local

shops and will do everything possible

to crack down on the crime.

The panel, which consisted of

Simon Yates, Paul Plim from Bexhill

Trade Union Council, MP Kieran

Mullan, Councillor Christine Bayliss,

Tracey Love from Bexhill Chamber

and Councillor Gareth Delany, invited

shopkeepers to share their recent

stories and experiences.

One businessman told the panel:

“Shoplifting at the moment is a real

threat to local shopkeepers. The lack

of Police in town is concerning and is

leaving an open door for thieves.”

Another said: “Just this evening,

before I came to this meeting, two

men in hoodies and balaclavas came

into my shop. One was on lookout

and the other was acting suspiciously,

so I confronted them and they fled.

It’s absolutely terrifying. It’s not just

shoplifting, it’s theft and it has a huge

effect on our mental health. We’ve

even questioned why we would

continue to invest in our shop.”

The panel encouraged the

businesses to use DISC, an online

platform used by the Rother

Business Crime Partnership, to

report crime and find out who the

local offenders are.

Some said a WhatsApp group called

ShopWatch is a great resource of

information as it’s instant and the

110 members in the group all send

messages when crime is taking place.

Mr Yates told the meeting that the

Police is starting to increase the use

of Criminal Behaviour Orders (CBO),

which put conditions on offenders

and can include banning them

from certain areas, to rehabilitation

services. He also emphasised that the

tagging of convicted shoplifters is a

huge benefit and will hopefully see a

reduction in offences.

Tracey Love from Bexhill Chamber

said: “I really want to talk to as many

local shop owners as possible to

encourage them to make use of the

DISC system, but I’m going to tackle

this issue with as many councillors as

possible as well as the Sussex Police

Crime and Commissioner. We are

talking to the large supermarket

chains on a corporate level, which

has policies and restrictions on

sharing CCTV of shoplifters, to see if

we can overcome this, which can only

benefit the town.”

Concluding the meeting, Mr

Mullan said: “I really want to

encourage businesses to continue

to work together whilst we move

forward in tackling this issue. I will

continue to work with the Police

and Ministers to bring the people

responsible to justice.”

Council pushes

for return of

school crossing

EFFORTS to improve road safety

for children travelling to and from

Little Common Primary School

have taken a significant step

forward after Bexhill Town Council

unanimously backed a call for

urgent action on the issue.

A motion brought to the council

at the end of October by Councillor

Connor Winter urged East Sussex

County Council (ESCC) to prioritise

the restoration of School Crossing

Patrol Officers at the A259 and

Birkdale Road crossings, locations

long identified by parents as

hazardous for pupils. Councillors

agreed the situation required

immediate attention.

Following the vote, the Town

Council has written to ESCC to begin

discussions about the possible

devolution of the School Crossing

Patrol Service, with Little Common

named as the first priority should

this move ahead.

The council is awaiting a formal

response to determine whether

the service can be fully devolved or

whether alternative arrangements,

such as part-funding or fully funding

two patrol officer posts locally,

will be needed.

Residents have also contacted

the council to express interest in

taking on crossing patrol roles once

recruitment begins, reflecting strong

community support for improving

safety around the school.

Speaking about the development,

Cllr Winter said: “Every child

deserves to walk to school safely. For

too long, families in Little Common

have had to worry every day about the

dangers of crossing busy roads. I’m

proud that we’ve taken decisive action

to change that, and I’m encouraged

by the number of local people willing

to step forward to help.

“This is about action, not promises.

With the Town Council moving

quickly to engage with ESCC, we now

have a clear path forward to ensure

our children can cross safely again.”

Booking system to use

Recycling Centre now in place

THE controversial new booking

system to use the Hastings

Household Waste and Recycling site

has been launched.

East Sussex County Council decided

earlier this year to introduce a

booking system for anyone who

wanted to use the site and others,

despite thousands of people across

the county opposing the plans.

The system started on 24 November

and residents have been able to

book by phone or online since

10 November. It means you can

no longer simply turn up at the

site at Freshfields

The council says the new booking

system for all of the county’s waste

sites will improve queues, deter

business and trade waste which

should not be disposed at the

taxpayer’s expense, and ensure only

East Sussex residents get to use the

facilities without charge.

It has introduced a new online

portal giving residents the

opportunity to book a slot online, but

people can also book by telephone.

The slots can be booked up to 14

days in advance and are generally 30

minutes or 15 minutes at some sites.

Arriving at the site you need to

have details of your booking and the

council says you may be asked to

show proof of residence, for example

a driver’s licence. People who want

to use the site who do not live in

East Sussex now have to pay £8.75

for each visit.

The council also insists waste sites

will continue to be free to use for

household rubbish. The introduction

of a booking system for all of its

10 household sites will save the

council £50,000.

The decision is controversial

because it came despite a big

public response to the council’s

consultation. Of the more than 5,000

who replied, 91 per cent responded

negatively. Officers admitted that

72 percent, or 4,352, responded

‘extremely negatively’.

However, the council says in other

areas of the country where people

had opposed booking systems, they

had soon become accustomed to it.

More than 50 per cent of councils now

operate some kind of booking system

for their sites.

It also insists a Govt report in 2023

showed there was no evidence of

a rise in fly-tipping linked to the

introduction of booking systems.

Neither Kent nor West Sussex had

seen an increase in fly tipping when

they introduced their booking

systems, it claims.

To book, visit the eastsussex.gov.uk

or call 0345 60 80 194.

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8 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


Bio-Beads spill sparks

massive clean-up

and wildlife alarm

BY DOMINIQUE AYLING

VOLUNTEERS and environmental

organisations have expressed their

dismay and despair after millions

of tiny plastic beads washed up on

Camber Sands beach last month,

saying they have never dealt

with a pollution incident of this

magnitude before.

A screening filter failure caused an

estimated 40-tonnes of bio-beads,

originating from the Eastbourne

Wastewater Treatment Works, to

escape and enter the sea during Storm

Benjamin at the end of October.

However, it took Southern Water,

who claim substantially less escaped,

two weeks to admit responsibility.

The beads have been found

washed up along the coastline as

far as St Mary’s Bay in Kent and it’s

believed the plastic pellets could

continue to wash up on beaches

for years to come.

The environmental disaster

prompted a massive clean-up

operation, led by Rother District

Council and environmental volunteer

groups Strandliners and Nurdle.

“This is the worst plastic pellet

pollution incident we have ever seen

here at Camber,” Strandliners said

in a statement. “The impact on the

environment and local wildlife can

be catastrophic. Birds and marine

animals easily mistake these toxic

plastic pellets for food. Once ingested,

it is difficult from them to expel the

pellets, and they may either die of

starvation or from the effects of the

toxins they contain.

“Research has shown that

microplastics such as industrial

plastic pellets readily absorb

chemical toxins from the

surrounding seawater: these

toxins can be at concentrations

thousands of times higher than the

background water level.”

Nurdle commented: “The pollution

is extremely severe, and even after

working from dawn till dusk every

day you can still spot millions of

pellets scattered across the beach.

“There’s just that much plastic

that even what’s left behind is still a

serious environmental issue. In some

places, it was inches deep.”

As well as at Camber Sands

beach, the bio-beads have been

found washed up at Rye Harbour

Nature Reserve.

Southern Wildlife Trust CEO

Chris Corrigan said the situation

is a ‘heartbreaking setback’ for his

organisation’s work.

“The realisation that hundreds of

thousands, or more likely millions,

of peppercorn-sized pieces of plastic

have been spread across the precious

saltmarsh habitat was a moment of

deep despair,” he said.

“The seeds wildfowl such as Wigeon

and waders such as Redshank eat

are identical in size to the bio-beads

and it is reasonable to assume

that many of the bio-beads will be

eaten with unknown short- and

long-term impacts.

“This is a form of pollution we have

never dealt with before, let alone an

incident of this scale.

“At a time when our marine and

coastal habitats are under threat like

never before with ocean warming

due to climate change, sewage

discharges, sedimentation, sea level

rise and more extreme weather

events, the last thing we need right

now is a serious pollution incident.”

MP for Bexhill and Battle Dr

Kieran Mullan said: “I met with

Lawrence Gosden, CEO of Southern

Water, in Parliament. He took full

responsibility for what happened.

“I stressed that I expect Southern

Water to fully cooperate with the

Environment Agency’s ongoing

investigation.

“The Environment Agency has

already confirmed to me that

their inquiries are underway, and

I have contacted them directly to

better understand the potential

repercussions Southern Water could

face. No stone must be left unturned.

“It is welcome news that Southern

Water has launched an independent

internal investigation, which I

understand will help them identify

the technical causes of the incident.

However, the Environment

Agency’s investigation remains the

absolute authority.

“During our meeting, Lawrence

Gosden confirmed that Southern

Water will cover all costs associated

with the clean-up and there is

ongoing consideration to further

compensation. He also committed

to full transparency with the

Environment Agency throughout

the investigation.

“I will continue to closely monitor

developments and will press the

Environment Agency to use every

tool available to ensure Southern

Water is held fully accountable for

any damage caused by this spill.”

Rother Councillor Kathryn

Field told us: “I’m very concerned

about the ongoing impact this

pollution incident will have on our

environment. Unfortunately, we

could see pellets washing up on our

coastline at Camber and elsewhere

for the next year or even longer. The

situation will have to be constantly

monitored, and the clean-up

operation deployed at the most

efficient times.”

Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde

met with Southern Water bosses

and raised the issue in Parliament.

“We are continuing to work closely

with the Environment Agency and

Southern Water to expedite clean-up

efforts and push for reassurances that

this won't happen again,” he said.

Southern Water uses bio-beads in

five sites including Eastbourne.

“We now know that substantially

fewer beads — less than 10 tonnes

— entered the sea, compared

to our initial estimates. We are

monitoring continuously to

understand the ongoing impact,” a

spokesperson said.

“Teams are daily walking over

beaches on a 40-mile stretch of the

coast from Eastbourne to St Mary's

Bay, but our forecasts suggest the

beads have dispersed widely and

are in very low concentrations. Very

small quantities of beads found on

other beaches have been removed

by the monitoring teams. Southern

Water is clear that our response to

this incident will need to be sustained

and long term."

WHAT TO DO IF YOU COME

ACROSS BIO-BEADS

• If you see a bio-bead freshly washed-up please call the Environment Agency

0800 807060 — quoting reference 2440833

• If you find a dead cetacean (whale, dolphin or porpoise) or a dead seal,

please report it to CSIP on 0800 652 0333 and send a record to info@

strandliners.org.

• If you find a dead bird, please report it to Defra on 03459 335577 and send a

record to info@strandliners.org.

• DO NOT TOUCH any dead animal or bird as they may carry disease.

M A Y B U G S

DEVONSHIRE ROAD - BEXHLL ON SEA

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10 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Photo credit: Alexis Markwick

WHO WILL PAY FOR THE

BEXHILL FOUNTAINS?

DEAR EDITOR, So, Alastair Brown

(Letters page Nov '25) thinks we should

all pay again, and will the contract

go out to tender? Will the works be

‘signed off’? Will there be a guarantee?

Why aren't the directors of the original

company being pursued for the money?

The "Bexhill fountains debacle" refers

to the long-running problems with

the seafront water feature installed

in 2011, which was plagued by issues

like incorrect materials, leaks, and a

lack of liability for repairs from the

original contractors.

The fountains were officially closed in

2019 after being deemed a safety hazard,

with subsequent investigations revealing

the estimated repair cost had risen

significantly to potentially £1 million.

Roger Burton

A VITAL ASSET WORTH

RESTORING

DEAR EDITOR, Regarding the De La

War fountains. I, too agree with last

month’s letter writer Alastair Brown.

The fountains should be repaired

and maintained. The fountains

brought joy to many people, not just

those with children, a water feature

delights everyone.

Many seafronts have a water feature

here and abroad, why has this one

been abandoned?

Part of the DLW government, £17

million could be set aside for this

worthwhile project. The fountains should

be seen as an important asset not only

for our wonderful seafront but for the De

La Warr Pavilion too.

Marie D.

WHO WILL POLICE

NEW 20MPH ZONES?

DEAR EDITOR, I read with interest

regarding 20mph around Bexhill.

I don't think a blanket restriction on

all roads in the town centre is the way

forward. Western Road, definitely,

because possibly more travellers during

the day use it.

We have lots of aged people who can

not ride bikes in Bexhill and I believe

riding on the pavement is not lawful,

but we get a certain amount of electric

scooters on our pavements. They do

speed some more than 20mph. I also

believe there are motorists who will

not keep to that.

I also think the local Police do not have

the officers to enforce it. It would be

great to walk around safely, especially

like me with a disability.

Barry Burgess.

GRAFFITI NOT ART — IT’S

CRIMINAL DAMAGE

DEAR EDITOR, Thank you for

highlighting the problem of graffiti in

your November issue.

Let's be clear: graffiti is NOT art, it is

criminal damage, and offenders should

be tracked down and prosecuted.

A few years ago, I wrote to you

complaining about graffiti defacing

the mural opposite Bexhill Station.

Miraculously, shortly after my letter

appeared, this hideous scrawl was

erased. The power of the Press!

The rising tide of graffiti in Bexhill and

surrounding areas makes many of our

streets ugly eyesores. I regularly use the

subway flanked by London Road and the

graffiti plastered all over it is a visible

sign of lawlessness and disrespect for

public property.

The police need to regard this problem

as a much higher priority and collar

the culprits. Shopkeepers should be

reminded of the law relating to the

sale of aerosol paints. Local councils

and other property owners should be

much quicker off the mark in removing

this wretched scrawl. That might, just

might, discourage this awful anti-social

behaviour blighting our society.

Ivor Jones.

‘DAMNED USELESS’

SENTENCING

DEAR EDITOR, We picked up a copy of

Bexhill News in the town a few days ago.

Well done on pointing out the state of

Bexhill-on-Sea now.

The shoplifting and graffiti was

hardly ever seen or heard of when

I moved down here from south

London area in 2003.

Our once wonderful seaside getaway

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

TO write to the editor,

email: letters@bexhill.news

for so many has now become a place

of empty shops and, and as you say,

graffiti. The shoplifting curse, seemingly

ignored by police and government, is

becoming worse.

The sentences for offences across the

board now are so damned useless and

becoming worse; no wonder crime of

every type is on the rise.

We now have not just double, but triple

killers released after fifty or so years.

Can we imagine what message this sends

out with murder attracting sentences

mainly from 12 to 23 years, and THIS

for someone's life from an already

crime-ridden country, where people are

worried about walking their dog or even

going to the shops.

Drivers who are drunk or drugged are

serving as few as 18 months for killing

another human being. No wonder our

roads are so damned dangerous now, and

poor driving is seen so often and reports

of unlicensed drivers are increasing and

even people behind the wheel who have

never passed a driving test!

I could go on, but also, thank you for

speaking to Kieran Mullan our MP who

we often complain to!

Derek Stocker.

Have you something to say? Send

your letters to the editor by emailing:

letters@bexhill.news

SCAN, KNOW & GO!

Every bus stop in East Sussex has a QR

code that can tell you everything you

need to know about your journey.

Simply scan the code with

your smart phone for

departure times and

service updates.

CASH OR AUCTION

in Association with Eastbourne Auctions Your Local Saleroom with the International Reputation

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Gold and Silver Jewellery in any condition

Costume Jewellery • Watches working or not

Coins, Medals and Militaria • Wines & Spirits

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12 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


Christmas light switch-on extravaganza

JTP53 Photography

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 ADVERTORIAL 13

Eastbourne Coaches gears up

for major expansion as new

holiday programme launches

EASTBOURNE’S newest transport

success story is preparing

for its biggest year yet, as

Eastbourne Coaches announces

a major expansion, a new holiday

programme and a public brochure

launch event this January.

Founded in May 2023 by local family

man Julian Ledger, Eastbourne

Coaches has rapidly built a strong

reputation across the region.

With a long career in the transport

sector, Julian set out to create a

reliable, community-focused coach

company capable of serving schools,

businesses, charities, sports clubs

and private groups.

What began as a modest operation

with two drivers has grown into a

thriving business employing seven

fully qualified, enhanced-DBScertified

drivers.

Julian’s ambition was supported

early on by the arrival of Transport

Manager Antony Burkill, a seasoned

professional with extensive

experience in coach operations.

Together, Julian and Antony have

shaped Eastbourne Coaches into a

company known for professionalism,

safety and quality service.

RAPID GROWTH AND

A MODERN FLEET

Since its launch, Eastbourne Coaches

has worked with an impressive

and diverse list of clients from local

schools and colleges to language

schools, charities, sports clubs, private

businesses and even fellow coach

operators needing additional support.

Its flexible approach to private hire

has helped it become a go-to transport

provider for both regular bookings and

one-off journeys.

The fleet itself has grown in

capability and comfort. Eastbourne

Coaches now operates vehicles

ranging from 16 to 61 seats, with

the largest luxury coaches offering

toilets, air conditioning and light

refreshments. A milestone moment

came in May 2025 when the company

took delivery of a brand-new PSVARcompliant

Yutong coach, ensuring

full wheelchair accessibility and

reinforcing its commitment to

inclusive travel.

NEW HOLIDAY

PROGRAMME FOR 2026

As the company looks towards 2026,

Eastbourne Coaches is preparing

to enter an exciting new chapter:

the launch of a UK Tour Holiday

Programme. This expansion

transforms the firm from a private hire

specialist into a full-service holiday

operator, offering curated coach

breaks across the country.

A standout feature of the new

programme will be the home pick-up

service, providing customers with

a seamless start to their holiday.

Passengers will be collected directly

from their front door, removing the

hassle of meeting points or additional

travel arrangements.

The company is also embracing

modern booking systems, including

online reservations and secure card

transactions, making it easier than

ever for customers to plan and pay

for their trips.

To support this growth, January

will also see the opening of a new

customer-facing office at 3 Courtlands

Road in Eastbourne, where travellers

can drop in for advice, information,

or to book their next holiday. The

office will become a hub for the

company’s expanding operations and

a welcoming space for customers to

speak directly with the team.

The expansion also marks the

arrival of a new full-time member

of the leadership team. Julian’s wife

Tracey Ledger, who has a strong

background in travel, will be joining

the business from January.

Tracey will work closely with

customers planning their 2026 and

2027 holidays and is looking forward

to meeting travellers in person at

the new Courtlands Road office. Her

expertise in customer service and

travel planning adds another layer

of knowledge and family spirit to the

growing company.

To celebrate the new holiday

programme, Eastbourne Coaches

is inviting the public to an official

brochure launch event at The Hotel

Cumberland on Grand Parade.

Taking place on Wednesday 21st

January, the event begins at 3pm

and offers attendees the chance to

meet Julian, Tracey, Antony and the

wider team. Guests will be able to

learn more about the destinations

and experiences included in the

new programme while enjoying a

complimentary cream tea.

Everyone who registers in

advance will also be entered into

a prize draw to win a £200 holiday

discount voucher, making it a

particularly appealing afternoon for

travel enthusiasts.

Seats for the brochure launch are

limited, and anyone wishing to attend

is asked to email Tracey with their

name, address and contact number

at sales@eastbournecoaches.co.uk,

or call 01323 808080 to reserve a place,

and mention this newspaper when

calling or emailing.

Eastbourne Coaches is not

only focused on great customer

service but also on maintaining

high professional and regulatory

standards. The company is a member

of the Road Haulage Association

and the Confederation of Passenger

Transport, ensuring its operations

align with national best practice.

As a holiday provider, it is also

fully bonded by British Coach

Holidays & ABTOT (The Association

of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust

Ltd), giving customers essential

financial protection and peace of

mind when booking.

The business is an active member

of the Eastbourne Chamber of

Commerce, reflecting its strong

local roots and commitment to the

wider community.

LAUNCHING NEW 2026/2027

UK HOLIDAY BROCHURE

WIN £200

HOLIDAY DISCOUNT

PLEASE JOIN US...

on Wednesday, 21st January, from 3pm at Hotel Cumberland,

Grand Parade, Eastbourne for our launch afternoon

Enjoy a cream tea, enter our prize draw to win a £200 holiday discount and

chat to us about your holiday plans. It’s an ideal opportunity to meet the

team and hear about our new tour programme.

Places are limited so make sure you contact us to book yours

by either calling 01323 808080 or by emailing us on

sales@eastbournecoaches.co.uk and mention Eastbourne News

Luxury Coach travel, air conditioned coaches, Enhanced

DBS checked Drivers, toilets on board, refreshments

available. 16-61 seat Coaches available for Private Hire

Eastbourne Coaches are an absolute pleasure to work with.

Their vehicles are always clean, tidy and on time, their drivers

professional and courteous and their administration flexible and

communicative. ELAC Study Vacations

When it comes to creating memorable experiences for our

international students, Eastbourne Coaches has been an

exceptional partner for East Sussex College.

They offer excellent value for money without compromising on

comfort or quality. Their modern, well-maintained coaches give our

students a positive first impression of the UK and make

every trip a pleasure.

We’re proud to work with a company that shares our commitment

to professionalism and care. Thank you, Eastbourne Coaches, for

helping us deliver unforgettable experiences for our students!

East Sussex College.

14 NEWS

DECEMBER 2025


Bexhill Falls silent

to honour the fallen

on Armistice Day

PHOTOS BY JTP53 PHOTOGRAPHY

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 NEWS 15

Charity for Kids calendars

continue to raise vital funds

THE 2026 calendar

range from JTP53

Photography,

produced in support

of Charity for Kids,

continues to be a hit

with residents.

Priced at £8.99, the

calendars are not only

great value but also

raise much-needed

funds to purchase

specialist equipment

for local children

with disabilities,

life-limiting, or,

in some cases,

terminal conditions.

Charity for Kids has

thanked the public

for their ongoing

support, as well as the

calendar sponsors,

partnering outlets,

and supporters who help make the

initiative possible.

The 2026 calendar sponsors include

Bentleys Steakhouse, Bentleys

Smokehouse, Pebbles Restaurants,

Carrolls Greengrocers, D Porter

Electrics, Littlewood Fencing,

Hastings Direct, London Road

Butchers, and 1066 Street Bikes.

Calendars are

available at a wide

range of outlets,

including De La

Warr Pavilion,

Pebbles Restaurants,

Trattoria Italian

Restaurant, Warming

Up The Homeless

shops, Carrolls

Greengrocers, Sidley

Pharmacy, Hughies

at Earls Cafe, and The

Eco Hub in Bexhill.

Supporters such as

The Golden Marigold

Club and Mais House,

along with the British

Legion Bexhill, have

also played a key

role in promoting

and distributing

the calendars.

For those interested

in supporting the charity or finding out

more about their work and partners,

further information can be found

on the Charity for Kids website and

Facebook page: charityforkids.co.uk.

With the continued success of the

calendars, Charity for Kids hopes to

raise even more funds to improve the

lives of local children in need.

Santa's Sleigh is back raising

money for Local Charities

BEXHILL Rotary Club will

be bringing its Santa's Sleigh

around the streets of the town

throughout this month.

This annual event has been

running for over 30 years and brings

a bit of Christmas fun to the dark

December evenings.

Rotary President David Dixson

said: “It's a great way to get to see

many people and help some of our

most needy charities. Last year

we were able to raise over £4,000

and this went to Warming Up The

Homeless, Bexhill Foodbank,

Westerleigh Judokwai and many

other organisations.

“We started the activities with a

special appearance at the Bexhill

Lights On event in Devonshire

Square on 29th November. This was

a great family event organised by the

Town Council and were happy to be

part of the fun.”

The dates and routes for the eight

separate outings are available onits

website bexhill.rotaryweb.org and

our Facebook page.

He will be starting in Cranston

Avenue area on 4th December, then

Cowdray Park area 5th, Monterey

Gardens 8th, Rosewood development

9th, Courtorpe Drive 10th, Glenleigh

Park 11th, Mount Ideal View area 15th

and Seabourne Road 17th.

Tim Pilbeam, Chair of Community

Fundraising said: “We make our

very best efforts to be out whatever

the weather, it is a great joy to see

families coming out and joining in,

the more the merrier.”

David Dixson say “A big thank you

to all who have supported us over

the years, it all helps to build the

community spirit in Bexhill-on-Sea”

The Rotary Club of Bexhill

undertakes numerous charity and

fun social events during the year

and is always keen to have new

members to join.

For more details or to attend one

of its meetings, see the website

www.bexhill.rotaryweb.org, or

telephone Perry at 07969 025507.

16 REGULARS

DECEMBER 2025


ON YOUR BIKE with Ian Hollidge

WHAT CAN A SUSSEX MAYOR DO FOR CYCLING?

THE image with this month’s article

shows Sustrans volunteers carrying

out a signage audit in Hastings whilst

travelling to Polegate, checking

routes, ensuring cyclists head in the

right direction.

As you can see, it’s a challenge.

A Sussex Mayor once elected will

automatically become the Local

Transport Authority. They will have

to write a Transport Plan, set up and

coordinate a Key Route Network for

strategic roads, develop the railways

with possibly greater control over

local stations, as well as Buses and

Active Travel.

Mayors will also play an important

role in decarbonising transport,

reducing its environmental and health

impacts. Ask for assessments on access

to Walking Wheeling and Cycling

capabilities. All of this is written into the

Devolution White Paper.

The Local Government Act in 1888

created East Sussex County Council,

which included Brighton. 1974 further

reorganisation created District and

Borough Councils, some of which then

maintained our highways. Next year,

we should have our first Sussex Mayor

under the Government’s Devolution plan

for change and in 2027, new Unitary

Authorities in Sussex will start their

journey for delivering local services.

What can these new bodies deliver for

cycling? Can it give a boost and new

positive direction?

Should a new Sussex Mayor also

promote happiness as a measure?

For eight years, Finland comes

out on top as the world's ‘happiest

country’, one reason is its connection

to nature. Cycling and walking gives

you that access.

Mayors have a responsibility for

Well-being. Should a mayor's focus

be more on transport that links

you to nature? Waterways, Train

Tracks, Coastal & National Paths,

Cycle Networks and Public rights

of way as well as our strategic road

network, all deserve equal attention for

KNOW YOUR GARDEN

By Emma Reece, Head Gardener at Bates Green Garden

different reasons.

Rivers were historically the main

way of transporting goods and people,

as opposed to horses travelling along

muddy rutted routes, flowing water was

much smoother. Many have a parallel

path for those who walk, wheel or cycle.

Sussex’s rivers Ouse, Rother,

Cuckmere, Arun and others were our

Key Route Networks back in the day.

However, you can’t cycle on water.

Creating a suitable Active Travel

network with parking spaces and

other facilities still falls short, as other

Key Route Networks have developed

without consideration of the best

personal transport ever invented, the

humble bicycle.

Some networks have gone backwards,

UK Railways cover under 10,000 miles,

in 1928 they covered over 20,000.

Good news is we can create new routes,

and by next year, East Sussex will

have 54 miles of the King Charles III

England Coast Path, which forms part

of what will be the longest managed

coastal walking trail in the world when

all 2700 miles around the English

Coast are opened.

Already existing Mayors of Combined

Authorities in England have signed a

commitment to:

• Work with the Department for

Transport, Active Travel England

and our local authorities to create

a country-wide national walking,

wheeling and cycling network,

comprising of local networks that are

safe and easy to use. This will give

millions of people across England the

choice to use high-quality, safe routes

in their communities.

• Transform the school run by

delivering high-quality, safer routes in

neighbourhoods nationwide.

• Deliver region-wide integrated

transport networks by giving people

easy walking, wheeling and cycling

access to buses, trams and trains,

which will in turn help deliver new

housing and support local economic

growth. Together, we can transform

our regions and deliver increased

transport choice, sustainable public

transport, boost local economies and

give our younger generation access

to opportunity.

Sounds like progress and a

visionary rebalance.

Early 1890’s The Penny Farthing

was already taking to the road with

manufacturers Singer and Humber

making 54-inch ordinary machines. Not

many cars and the high wheeler fastest

machine on the road.

The 1865 Locomotives Act, publicly

known as the Red Flag Act contained

restrictive measures on the manning

and speed of operation of road vehicles,

mainly steam-driven. They also

formalised vehicle registration plates,

speed limits, maximum vehicle weight

over structures such as bridges and the

organisation of highway authorities.

The Motor Car Act in 1903 laid down

that all cars and drivers must be

licensed and registered. Letters AP were

allocated to East Sussex, by January

1904: 172 cars, 133 motorcycles and

385 drivers were licensed. A 20mph

speed limit was introduced and the

Chief Constable given £9 to construct an

apparatus to check speeds. Could E-Bike

registration be next?

Happy Wheeling. Ian Hollidge &

Bexhill Wheelers

GARDEN REOPENS WED 25 FEBRUARY 2026

For details, please go to the website www.batesgreengarden.co.uk

and follow the garden on Instagram @batesgreengarden

“Every gardener knows under the cloak of winter lies a miracle — a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to light, a bud straining to unfurl.

And the anticipation nurtures our dream.” — Barbara Winkler, American author and editor

AS the Head Gardener at Bates Green

Garden, I feel that December is always

a time of reflection and anticipation.

The Garden, dressed in its winter finery,

embodies the quiet magic that Barbara

Winkler so poetically described. While

many associate this season with

dormancy and rest, those of us who

tend the soil know that beneath the

surface, life is quietly preparing for the

renewal of spring.

December brings shorter days and

cooler temperatures, signaling to most

plants that it’s time to slow down.

Deciduous trees and shrubs have shed

their leaves, conserving energy and

protecting themselves from winter’s

chill. Perennials retreat underground,

their roots storing nutrients to fuel next

year’s growth. Even the lawn stops

growing, allowing the soil beneath to

rest and recover.

Yet, not everything is asleep.

Evergreen trees and shrubs maintain

their foliage, providing structure and

color to the winter landscape. Their

leaves are often waxy or needle-like,

adaptations that help them conserve

water and withstand frost. In the

borders, ornamental grasses stand

Photo John Glover

tall, their seed heads catching the low

sunlight and offering movement and

sound to the garden’s quiet.

One of my favorite aspects of

December gardening is the emergence

of winter flowering shrubs. These

resilient plants, such as Mahonia

japonica, Viburnum x bodnantense, and

Sarcococca confusa (sweet box), flower

when most others remain dormant. Their

fragrant flowers are a gentle reminder

that beauty persists, even in the

coldest months.

Winter flowering shrubs are invaluable

for wildlife. Their flowers offer nectar

and pollen for insects like bumblebees,

which may venture out on milder

days. Berries from shrubs such as

Ilex aquifolium (holly) and Callicarpa

bodinieri (beautyberry) provide essential

food for birds, including robins and

blackbirds, supporting them through

the lean winter weeks. By planting

these shrubs, we create a lifeline for

local fauna and enrich the garden’s

ecosystem year-round.

In addition to supporting wildlife,

these shrubs add color and structure

to winter gardens. Their unique forms

and vibrant hues—yellow from Mahonia,

pink from Viburnum, and glossy green

from Sarcococca—lift our spirits and

invite us to explore especially on

frosty mornings.

While growth slows, there is no

shortage of tasks for us dedicated

gardeners in December. This is an ideal

time for maintenance, planning, and

preparing for the year ahead. Here are

some jobs that can be carried out to

keep your garden healthy and beautiful:

• Pruning: Many deciduous trees and

shrubs can be pruned now, while their

structure is visible and before the sap

starts to rise in spring. Remove dead,

diseased, or crossing branches to

improve air circulation and encourage

strong growth next year.

• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of

organic mulch around (but not

touching) the base of trees, shrubs,

and perennials. Mulch insulates roots

against frost, suppresses weeds,

and gradually enriches the soil as

it breaks down.

• Protecting Tender Plants: Wrap

fleece around tender shrubs or potgrown

plants and move containers

to sheltered spots. Check that

stakes and supports are secure to

prevent wind damage.

• Cleaning and Maintenance: Clean

garden tools and store them dry to

prolong their life.

• Planning and Planting: Take time to

review the past season and plan for

new additions or changes. December

is a good month for planting bare-root

trees and shrubs, giving them a head

start before spring.

• Supporting Wildlife: Replenish

bird feeders and water sources,

and leave seed heads and berries

for birds. Consider creating log

piles or leaving leaf litter in quiet

corners to provide shelter for insects

and small mammals.

Though December may seem like a time

of stillness, the garden is alive with subtle

activity and promise. By caring for winter

flowering shrubs and wildlife, and tending

to essential tasks, we nurture not only our

plants but the entire garden community.

Each job carried out now sets the stage

for the miracle that lies beneath—the

seeds ready to sprout, the bulbs eager for

light, and the buds preparing to unfurl at

the first sign of spring.

As we close the year in Bates Green

Garden, I invite you to embrace the quiet

joys of winter gardening. Bundle up,

listen to the soft rustle of grasses, and

let the anticipation of the coming season

nurture your dreams. The garden’s story

continues, even in December, and it is

one of hope, resilience, and renewal.

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 ADVERTORIAL 17

ROTHER DISTRICT COUNCIL NEWS

BY DOUG OLIVER, COUNCILLOR AND COUNCIL LEADER

Plastic pellet

pollution clean-up

I am starting my column with an

update on the awful pollution

incident at Camber Sands that

occurred in early November.

Millions of plastic pellets, or

biobeads, washed ashore at Camber,

polluting the beach and posing a threat

to local wildlife and the area’s sand

dune ecosystem.

Since the discovery of the biobeads

our coastal team and council officers

have been working seven days a week

to coordinate the clean-up operation.

I would like to thank all the council

staff and volunteers who have

been working so hard over the last

few weeks to clean the beach and

help protect Camber’s important

ecosystem from this terrible

plastic pollution.

Although for beach and tidal safety

reasons volunteers or members of

public have not been asked to clean

any beaches other than Camber, if

anyone happens to notice biobeads

elsewhere during your normal

activities, please report them to the

Environment Agency on 0800 80 70 60,

quoting reference: 2440833.

Southern Water have said they

believe the beads are highly likely

to have originated from their water

treatment plant at Eastbourne,

following the failure of a screening

filter which led to the beads being

released into the sea.

Within 24 hours of the first reports

of the pellets appearing, the council

had organised for specialist nonprofit

company, Nurdle, to attend

the beach to assist with the removal

of the biobeads using their specially

designed equipment.

However, despite the sterling efforts

of everyone involved in the cleanup,

it has sadly proved impossible to

remove all the plastic pellets originally

deposited on the beach from the sand.

Unfortunately, we also expect

further large amounts to be

washed ashore at Camber and

elsewhere in the coming weeks and

months, particularly following the

regular Spring tides.

Nurdle’s expert advice is that the

cleaning operation with their specialist

equipment is most effective following

these high tides, which occur twice

a month, and so clean-up work will

continue after each Spring tide over

the coming months.

In the meantime, the cleanup

operation has continued at

Camber with council officers,

aided by Strandliners, other local

volunteers and partner organisations

including Southern Water

employees, continuing to remove

the biobeads from the beach using

manual methods.

Whilst we are not aware of any

concerns about the biobeads

regarding public health, the plastic

pellets should not be ingested, and

I would remind people that as usual

they should always wash their hands

after touching or picking up any litter

or debris found on the beach.

And due to the potential risk posed

to pets from the plastic pellets, dog

owners should continue to keep dogs

under close supervision while on

the beach at Camber to stop them

eating the pellets.

In other news, we have joined

other local authorities in East Sussex

to urge residents to check if they or

someone they know are eligible for

Pension Credit.

It seems winter has arrived after a

mild autumn, and we know many

households will struggle to make

ends meet during the colder months

with increasing heating costs as

temperatures drops, and we want

to make sure that those eligible are

getting the right support.

An estimated 880,000 households

across the UK are thought to be

missing out on support worth on

average over £3,900 per year.

Residents can check eligibility by

calling the Pension Credit claim

line on 0800 99 1234. You will need

to have your national insurance

number, information about income,

savings and investments, and bank

account details.

Those aged 66 or over claiming

or eligible to claim Pension Credit

can also apply for Attendance

Allowance if they are sick, disabled or

have caring needs.

You can find out more and check

if you are eligible to claim by calling

the Attendance Allowance helpline

on 0800 731 0122.

Rother residents can also contact

the Citizens Advice 1066 (Hastings

and Rother) on 01424 869 352 if

they want to talk to someone about

claiming either Pension Credit or

Attendance Allowance.

This additional income can make

a huge difference to someone’s life,

and I would urge people to check if

they are eligible.

18 YOUR MP

DECEMBER 2025


NEWS FROM YOUR CONSERVATIVE MP

DR KIERAN MULLAN

Celebrating Christmas Together:

Creativity, Community and Shopping Local

AS Christmas approaches, I want

to take a moment to reflect on what

makes this time of year so special.

It’s not just the twinkling lights or

the joy of exchanging gifts — it’s the

sense of togetherness that binds our

community. This season gives us a

chance to pause, appreciate what

we’ve achieved, and look forward to

the opportunities ahead.

One of the simplest yet most

powerful ways we can support our

community this Christmas is by

shopping local. Our high streets

and independent businesses are the

heartbeat of our towns and villages.

They create jobs, benefit the local

economy, and give our area its unique

character. When you buy from a

local shop, you’re not just ticking

something off your gift list — you’re

helping a neighbour’s business

thrive. Whether it’s picking up a

handmade present, visiting the local

butcher for your festive dinner, or

enjoying a catch-up with friends in a

family-run café, every choice makes a

difference. Let’s make this Christmas

a season of support for those who

keep our community vibrant.

One of my favourite holiday

traditions is my annual Christmas

Card Competition, and this year

was no exception. The creativity

and talent shown by primary school

pupils across the constituency were

incredible. Choosing a shortlist was

a real challenge because every entry

captured the spirit of Christmas in its

own distinctive way. A huge thank

you to all the children who took part,

and to the teachers and parents who

encouraged them. The winning

design, voted for by you, will be sent

to hundreds of people including

colleagues in Parliament and His

Majesty the King, and it’s a wonderful

showcase of the artistic flair in our

local schools. Competitions like

this remind us how important it is

to nurture creativity and give young

people opportunities to shine.

At the end of November, we

celebrated UK Parliament Week.

This is a fantastic initiative that

helps young people understand

how democracy works and how

they can get involved. I was thrilled

to see so many schools, community

groups, and youth organisations in

the constituency sign up and take

part. My visits to Pevensey and

Westham Primary, Glenleigh Park

Academy in Bexhill and Westfield

Primary during the week were

brilliant and the pupils’ enthusiasm

was inspiring.

Many more schools, colleges, scout

and guiding groups took part and

I will be visiting them in the weeks

and months ahead. Engaging with

Parliament isn’t just for politicians;

it’s for everyone. UK Parliament

Week helps demystify the process

and encourages young people to

BEXHILL MUSEUM with Gordon Smith

WHEN BEXHILL GOT THE BLUES

A group of about thirty braved the

rain to witness the official unveiling of

Bexhill’s newest blue plaque.

Located at 38 Sackville Road, the

plaque commemorates the founding of

Blues Unlimited Magazine in April 1963.

Karen Smith writes: “It was founded

by former Bexhill Grammar School boys

Mike Leadbitter and Simon A. Napier

and was the world’s first magazine that

was devoted to Blues music and was

read by the Rolling Stones and Eric

Clapton, among others.

“It was a groundbreaking and hugely

influential magazine that launched the

careers of many music writer luminaries

such as John Broven.”

In the early days the magazine was

very much a homemade affair and the

first issue was only 180 copies.

It proved so popular though that the

number of copies increased as time

went on, as did the professionalism of

the magazine production itself.

The magazine

had contacts

throughout

America and Mike

and Simon often

visited to gather

information on

new performers.

“One they took a particular interest

in was Weldon H. Philip Bonner, better

known as Juke Boy Bonner. He became

very friendly with the Blues Unlimited

team and even visited Bexhill for three

weeks in 1969. He was later to recall

his trip to Bexhill in the song B.U. Blues

from the Things Ain’t Right album.

“The magazine’s last issue was in

the winter of 1987 but many readers

and blues music fans retain fond

memories of it.”

There is a small exhibition about

the magazine in Bexhill Museum.

The interest shown in this display

eventually led to the desire for

the plaque — to permanently

commemorate the magazine.

On the day of the unveiling there was

a speech beside the plaque by Bexhill

Museum Curator Julian Porter. This was

followed by the unveiling itself.

The group then repaired to the

Sportsman Pub where messages from

well-wishers around the world were

read out by Tony Burke from Blues and

Rhythm Magazine.

Attendees included Simon’s widow

Diana and his daughter Louise.

TALES FROM THE BAR

The second volume of the book

History of Bexhill’s Pubs was

launched at the museum.

It is twice the size of the first volume

and covers Sidley and Little Common

hostelries past and present.

The authors, Niall McCrae and Rob

Hiscocks, are pictured at the launch.

learn how they can make their

voices heard. I’m proud that our

constituency played such an active

role, and I look forward to building

on this momentum.

Looking ahead, I’m excited

about the launch of the Bexhill

Neighbourhood Board’s 10 Year

Vision and four-year investment

plan which is about to be submitted

to government for approval. This

initiative is all about empowering

local communities to shape the future

of their areas and ensuring projects

reflect the aspirations of residents

and businesses through extensive

community engagement, with Bexhill

receiving almost £20 million over

10 years. This funding was awarded

under the previous government’s

Levelling Up initiative and was reconfirmed

by the new government

under the ‘Pride in Place’ programme.

I’m proud to be part of this board,

Chaired by local businesswoman,

CHRISTMAS TRAIL

FOR CHILDREN

Children will need to search for the

“lost” Rudolf the reindeer as part of

the museum’s Christmas trail this

year. There will be a chance to win

a cuddly Rudolf. The trail starts on 6

December and is included in the normal

admission charge.

SHERLOCK HOMES

IN BEXHILL

The first official Sherlock Holmes films

were made in Bexhill.

There were eight made of which

only two survive. These are being

shown at the next gathering of

Bexhill Film Club on Wednesday 3

December at the museum.

The films were made before the

“talkies” arrived and so were shown

with live musical accompaniment. Once

again, local musician Mike Hatchard will

provide the live music.

The films were made by a French

company called Éclair. They feature

French actor Georges Treville as

Holmes. The two films are The Copper

Beeches and The Musgrave Ritual,

both made in 1912.

All are welcome to watch a piece of

cinema history presented as it would

have been in 1912.

Abi Newbury. The engagement

work carried out by the Bexhill

Neighbourhood Board has used by

government as an example of best

practice to other Neighbourhood

boards across the country. I’m

excited by what we will achieve

together once the plan is approved.

By bringing residents, businesses,

and stakeholders around the same

table, we can make real, lasting

improvements that benefit everyone

in the local area, and I look forward to

sharing more details in the future.

As we celebrate Christmas, let’s

remember that the season is about

more than gifts and decorations.

It’s about kindness, generosity, and

community spirit. I want to thank

everyone who has worked so hard

this year to make our constituency

a better place, from volunteers

and teachers to business owners

and local leaders. Looking ahead

to the new year, I’m confident

that with continued support for

local businesses, engagement in

democratic processes, and a shared

commitment to improving our

neighbourhoods, the future is bright.

Wishing you all a joyful Christmas

and a happy, healthy New Year.

www.bexhillmuseum.org.uk

Tickets are £8 and the showing starts

at 7pm. You can buy tickets from the

museum or reserve them by phone

on 01424 222058.

MUSIC IN THE GALLERY

Mike Hatchard will also be this year’s

performer at the annual musical event in

the Sargent Gallery.

It will take place at 7pm on Thursday

18 December. Tickets must be bought

in advance. Details available from the

museum or the museum website.

TALES FROM THE CASTLE

The history of Pevensey Castle will be

the final History Hour talk of the year on

Thursday 4 December.

It will be presented by David Dennis

and will start at 2pm. Tickets, priced at

£6, can be pre-booked on the museum

webpage or by phoning or calling into

the museum (01424 222058).

PRESENT IDEAS

The museum shop stocks toys and

other items which are ideal stocking

fillers. There is also a selection of

children’s books.

We have a wide variety of

books on local history as presents

for the grown-ups.

The shop can be accessed for free

without having to pay to enter the

museum. You could pick up a tea

or coffee, too.

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 REGULARS 19

LAURIE’S POEM CORNER

I wrote this month’s poem ‘Signs and Signals’ for my 15th and most recent

book, Poetic Passions, which was published in February this year.

As the title suggests, it is a collection of my romance and love poems, with

some new offerings.

The book is split into five sections describing our attractions in love

through needs and to arrival. As love is a major feeling in our lives, I

strongly suspect there will be much for you in the book, if in fact you are not

described within, but for that, you will need to have a read.

Another reason I have chosen this subject and poem for December is that, of course, it contains

Christmas, well, after a lengthy build-up up that is, and virtually everyone loves this festive time of the

year, perhaps with a few exceptions? Anyway, with another of my poetic licence twists, this poem is

very apt as the Christmas period is a notorious and active month of love, so please read and enjoy my

poem, and then look around you!

There are many examples for signs of love

Which we share privately or with others,

And may show them openly at times too

But intimately secret between lovers.

For if you have very deep feelings

You may wish to show them if you can,

And therefore may attempt to signal

Or demonstrate your hoped for plan.

So many a movement or little signal

Can perhaps give a loving secret away,

For if offered fleetingly, silent or covert

It will probably occur most every day,

Maybe just a simple pushing of a chair

Allowing a gentle stroke of another’s face,

Perhaps with a slight brushing of the hair

That won’t seem obviously out of place.

SIGNS AND SIGNALS

For communications are often tricky

But you can send in a text or email,

Which could offer loving thoughts

Maybe saying they’re your holy grail,

As subtle little messages can say a lot

When left to give you a chance to brag,

Like saucy notes only meant for them

Put unseen in his lunch box or her bag.

Because seeing these little signals of love

And favourite things done without blunder,

You soon realise you have something special

Allowing you to walk in majesty and wonder,

Where you can build your private castle

And perhaps make a very personal shrine,

That is a constant precious joy for you

Every time you see a signal or sign.

To purchase Laurie’s books, visit www.lauriewilkinson.com

Attention all Home Owners

and Council Tax Payers!

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BEFORE THAT NEEDS REPLACING?

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respiratory or cardiovascular issues, or if you’re

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BEXHILL-ON-SEA TN39 5AE

2025 Festive

menu now

available

The Bull Inn

To call, or reserve a table: 01424 424984

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

www.bullstleonards.co.uk

Facebook: @bullinnstleonards

Sunday Folk Session - 4th Jan 2026, 5:30pm (no session in Dec)

Sunday Rock ‘n Roll Bingo Session - 14th from 6:00pm

Sunday Karaoke Session - 21st from 5:30pm

Monday Charity Quiz - 22nd from 8:00pm

OTHER EVENTS

Our 2025 Festive Menu will be served from 24th November ‘25 until 31st

January ‘26. Find a copy of the menu at www.bullstleonards.co.uk/dining or

pick up a copy from us here at the bar. Small gatherings or large groups are all

welcome, but booking is highly recommended, to avoid disappointment!

Rock ‘n Roll bingo on the 30th is to raise funds for “The Sara Lee Trust”.

Help us raise much needed funds for a fabulous cause!

We will be open until late on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, so please

pop in and help us celebrate with a drink or two!

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

our speciality! We also serve Manze’s Traditional Pie, Mash and Liquor. In addition, our

traditional Sunday Roast is served every week. Enjoy our secluded beer garden, we have a

large car park at the rear and we’re dog friendly too!

20 ADVERTORIAL

DECEMBER 2025


BEXHILL-ON-SEA TOWN

COUNCIL UPDATE

Bexhill-on-Sea and Little Common

Pause for Reflection on Remembrance

Sunday & Armistice Day

THIS Remembrance Sunday

on November 9th saw two

immaculately observed Memorial

Services at the Bexhill-on-Sea and

Little Common War Memorials.

At Bexhill-on-Sea, a parade formed

of dignitaries, representatives from

the Armed Forces, Cadets, Scouts

and Guides, as well as other notable

figures within the community,

marched from Devonshire Square to

the War Memorial. There, a twominute

silence was held at 11am as

part of the Memorial Service, as well

as a laying of wreaths, offering of

prayers, and performance of pipes to

honour the fallen. The parade then

re-formed, continuing down Channel

View East. Due to the ongoing

maintenance works at the Colonnade,

it received the salute from parade

leaders outside the Rowing Club,

where it was dismissed.

At Little Common, following

a Memorial Service at St Mark’s

Church, a parade marched from

the church to the War Memorial

Rangers Round-Up: Reacting

Promptly to Incidents of Vandalism

THIS month, our Town Rangers

have been addressing issues of

vandalism in several of our Public

Conveniences, while taking the

opportunity to smarten them up on

a more general level.

In October, a number of our Public

Conveniences were subjected to

particularly severe incidents of

vandalism. Channel View East Public

Conveniences (Men’s) were the worst

affected with damage including

graffiti, destruction of fixtures and

attempts to light small fires. At the

end of October and through much of

November, the Rangers team repaired

damaged fixtures and wall areas,

replaced worn fittings and redecorated

the interior, incorporating the

colours of the Bexhill-on-Sea flag.

On Friday 19th of November,

Central Ward Councillors Andrew

Crotty and Paul Plim (pictured, with

Town Rangers and representatives

from Wetton cleaning and support

NOTABLE DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Wednesday, December 3rd — Amenities Committee

Wednesday, December 10th — Finance & Audit Committee

Wednesday, December 17th — Full Council Meeting

Wednesday, January 7th 2026 — Engagement & Communications Committee

services) paid a visit to the refreshed

facilities to admire the Rangers’

handiwork and officially reopen the

Public Conveniences.

Elsewhere in the district, repairs

and refurbishments were undertaken

at Sidley Public Conveniences,

BEXHILL-ON-SEA Town Council

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

OPEN: Monday-Friday, 10am-2:30pm

CONTACT: town.clerk@bexhilltowncouncil.gov.uk

www.bexhilltowncouncil.gov.uk

at the roundabout, where wreaths

were laid as part of the Memorial

Service. The parade then reformed

and continued to The Poppy Club,

where it was dismissed, and a

reception held. Representatives from

the Town Council also attended the

Memorial Services at Bexhill-on-Sea

and Little Common War Memorials

which took place on Armistice

Day itself, Tuesday November

11th, and observed the two-minute

silence at 11am.

Bexhill-on-Sea Town Council is

proud as ever to work alongside

the Royal British Legion branches

of Bexhill and Little Common

to organise these important

ceremonies, as well as volunteering

to sell poppies and installing a

fitting tribute in our Hub window.

Remembrance is a vital part of

the town’s fabric, and we will

remember them.

where graffiti clear-up, wall patching

and fixture renovations have both

smartened up these facilities and

made them safer. We hope that the

updated decor continues to provide

a tidier, cleaner and more pleasing

overall experience for users.

Tackling

Retail Crime

in Bexhillon-Sea

ON the 6th of November, a Retail

Crime Meeting was held at The De La

Warr Pavilion. Called by Dr Kieran

Mullan MP, the forum acted as a

chance for residents and retailers

to detail their personal experiences

of retail crime in Bexhill, as well

as exploring potential solutions

to the problem.

Several Bexhill-on-Sea Town

Councillors were in attendance,

along with representatives from a

number of other local authorities.

In his ‘Message from The Mayor’

on Facebook, Cllr Paul Wilson

said he had heard ‘shocking and

distressing stories from some of

our retailers’ during the course

of the evening.

The Town Council has recently

resolved to adopt the DISC system for

local businesses: an online system

of reporting incidents and sharing

information designed to tackle lowlevel

crime. Bexhill-on-Sea Town

Council encourages as many small

businesses as possible in the town

to sign up to this scheme, which

has the potential to be effective at

discouraging vandals, criminals and

antisocial behaviour.

A Merry

Christmas from

Bexhill-on-Sea

Town Council

IT continues to be a pleasure to

serve our community, and 2025 has

been an important one for the Town

Council. From toilet refurbishments

to twitten tidying, we’re committed

to making Bexhill-on-Sea a brilliant

place to live.

We’re also proud of the public

events we organised this year: the

Civic Awards ceremony; the VE Day

80 Street Party and Beacon Lighting;

Bexhill Day; and Remembrance

Sunday — as well as several other

events or ceremonies where the

Town Council lent planning and

operational support.

We hope you enjoyed the Christmas

Light Switch-on — our final public

event of 2025 — and we wish you a

very Merry Christmas and a Happy

New Year. See you in 2026!

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 TRAVEL 21

New Forest Spa

Balmer Lawn Hotel and Spa

A New Forest Escape

at The Balmer

Lawn Hotel

Afternoon Tea

BY DAVID POWELL

THERE are few corners of England

where time seems to slow down

quite like the New Forest.

One moment you’re winding

through narrow lanes framed by

ancient oaks, the next you’re stopping

to let a herd of ponies or cows amble

across the road as if they own the

place — and in truth, they do. In this

landscape of heath, woodland and

wandering wildlife, the Balmer Lawn

Hotel and Spa offers a welcoming

retreat at the heart of one of Britain’s

most beautiful regions.

I recently visited with my wife for

a few days and enjoyed a luxury

room with a balcony at the front of

the hotel overlooking the sweeping

lawn, cricket pitch and forest beyond

where ponies and deer can often

be seen grazing.

A GRAND HOTEL

WITH HISTORY

Located on the outskirts of

Brockenhurst, Balmer Lawn is an

elegant hotel that blends Edwardian

charm with modern comfort. This

lovely hotel has seen more than

a century and a half of history.

Originally built as a hunting lodge

in the mid-1800s, it later served

as a military hospital during both

World Wars before settling into life

as a luxury retreat for those seeking

relaxation and a touch of oldfashioned

hospitality.

This luxurious hotel comes with a

homely touch — polished oak floors,

open fires and soft lighting creating a

relaxed ambience.

Step outside the hotel and you’re

immediately surrounded by the

natural beauty of the New Forest

— 220 square miles of protected

woodland, heath and meadow

DINING WITH LOCAL FLAIR

Food is a serious affair here. The

hotel’s award-winning, Beresford’s

Restaurant, is proudly established in

the region, with dishes showcasing

New Forest and Hampshire produce.

The team work closely with trusted

suppliers sourcing ingredients

locally, ethically and sustainably

wherever possible. We enjoyed two

wonderful dinners in this delightful

restaurant with first class service

matched by a wine list that encourages

lingering over dinner rather than

rushing through it!

An alternative dining venue is the

Lodge Terrace and Bar, ideal for

relaxed lunches or, like us, perfect

to enjoy a lovely afternoon tea. On

cooler evenings, a log fire and a good

glass of red make the perfect pairing.

We had a couple of days of excellent

weather, so it was a joy to relax on the

terrace before dinner.

I must of course mention the

wonderful New Forest breakfast

served daily in the Beresford

Restaurant, highly recommended!

THE NEW FOREST SPA

AND WELLNESS CENTRE

The hotel has recently unveiled their

brand-new Spa & Wellness Centre

blending nature-inspired design with

state-of-the-art facilities, creating the

perfect space for rest, rejuvenation,

and reconnection.

Treatments and facilities include

a Finnish Sauna, Steam Room,

Ice Room and Rainforest &

Monsoon Showers

There are six treatment rooms

with a dual suite, offering ESPA

rituals tailored to your needs.

The Relaxation Area offers a serene

space to unwind and reconnect

before or after your treatment.

Add to this private changing &

shower rooms — designed for

comfort and privacy

THE CALL OF THE FOREST

Designated a National Park in 2005,

the New Forest still feels delightfully

untamed. William the Conqueror

claimed it as a royal hunting ground

nearly a thousand years ago, and

in many ways it hasn’t changed

much since then. Ponies, donkeys,

cattle and even pigs roam freely,

a living reminder of the area’s

ancient commoning rights. The best

way to explore is at a gentle pace.

Footpaths and cycle trails thread in

every direction from Brockenhurst,

linking picturesque villages such as

Lyndhurst and Burley (famous for

its witchcraft). You can hire bikes in

the village and ride through peaceful

woodland or set off on foot across

open heathland where the views

stretch for miles!

MOTORING THROUGH

HISTORY AT BEAULIEU

A short drive from the hotel brings

you to Beaulieu, one of the New

Forest’s star attractions and home

to the world-famous National Motor

Museum. I always enjoy visiting

here where more than 280 vehicles

chart the evolution of motoring —

from early pioneers and elegant

Rolls-Royces to record-breakers

like Bluebird. Exhibits include “We

Had One of Those”, “Streets Ahead”

Icons of Formula 1 exhibit

from the 1950’s to 1970’s and full of

nostalgia, “On Screen Cars” and more.

Interactive exhibits, vintage films and

displays of motoring memorabilia

make it a fascinating stop for all

ages. At the time of my visit “Icons of

Formula 1” were on display including

a formula 1 simulator.

The wider Beaulieu estate offers

plenty more to explore. Wander

through the ruins of Beaulieu

Abbey, founded in 1204, then step

inside Palace House, still home

to the Montagu family. Guides in

Victorian dress bring the mansion’s

history to life, while the beautifully

kept gardens and riverside walks

complete the picture.

COASTAL CHARM CLOSE BY

If you’ve time to venture further,

the New Forest coast adds another

dimension to your stay. The

market town of Lymington lies just

15 minutes away, with its cobbled

streets, harbour views and weekly

market. From the quay, ferries cross

to the Isle of Wight, while yachts bob

up and down in the marina as seagulls

wheel overhead.

CONCLUSION

My wife and I had a great break here,

a special place whichever season you

choose to visit. Peace, tranquillity and

relaxation are key words for the area.

Escape to Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa

it’s a great hotel in a super location,

we can’t wait to return!

MORE INFORMATION

Balmer Lawn Hotel & Spa,

Lyndhurst Road, Brockenhurst,

Hampshire SO42 7ZB

Tel: 01590 623116

Web: www.balmerlawnhotel.com

There is currently a three-nights-forthe-price-of-two

offer, costing from

£155 per person, based on two people

sharing a room. The price includes full

breakfast each morning, and use of

the hotel’s leisure facilities. The hotel is

dog friendly (£25 per dog per night).

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

• Visit Beaulieu Motor Museum.

www.nationalmotormuseum.org.uk

• The coastal town of Lymington or

explore the New Forest on foot or

by bike — ponies permitting.

www.thenewforest.co.uk

22 MOTORING

DECEMBER 2025


A modern estate with

old-school charm

REPORT AND PHOTOS

BY PAUL GIBSON

At a time when the car market

feels increasingly dominated by

electric models, there’s something

reassuring about climbing

behind the wheel of a brand-new

car powered by a traditional

combustion engine, which in my

world, is quite rare.

Audi clearly understands that plenty

of drivers still want the familiarity,

range and character of a petrol or

diesel powertrain, and the new A5

Avant is proof that the combustion

estate car remains very much alive.

This latest A5 replaces both the old

A4 and A5 lines, slotting into Audi’s

refreshed naming structure. Priced

from £45,310 in Avant form for the

204PS petrol, it sits confidently in

the premium mid-size segment, and

after spending time with the new A5

Avant S Line 204PS S-Tronic, it’s clear

Audi has aimed to blend everyday

practicality with levels of technology

once reserved for its flagship models.

Finished in Mythos Black, and fitted

with the optional 19-inch alloys, the

S Line Avant has a genuinely athletic

stance. The familiar long, sweeping

estate roofline remains, but there’s

more definition to the bodywork.

Short overhangs and slimmer

windows give it a powerful visual

presence, and the S Line kit adds

sharper bumpers, privacy glass and

subtle S-badging.

It’s one of those cars that looks

expensive even standing still, but

more importantly, it avoids the overstyled

excess that’s crept into some

modern designs; it’s confident and

premium without trying too hard.

Open the door and the sense of

quality continues. Audi interiors have

long been class-leading, but this new

model takes things up another level

thanks to its Material Driven Design

approach. The headline feature is

the Digital Stage: a sweeping, curved

display that merges the 11.9-inch

Virtual Cockpit with a 14.5-inch

MMI touchscreen.

The clarity, responsiveness

and sheer volume of features are

astonishing. There’s an integrated

app store, a new Audi Assistant

capable of understanding more than

800 voice commands, and a vast

array of menus covering everything

from navigation to customisable

lighting. After several days of use, it

still felt like I had barely scratched

the surface. The level of tech is

nothing short of incredible, but

overwhelmingly so at times. You

could easily spend a week just

learning the system.

The S Line’s interior enhancements,

including the flat-top and flat-bottom

steering wheel, S-embossed sports

seats and brushed aluminium

inlays help create a more focused,

driver-centric feel.

Of course, being an Avant,

practicality is a big part of the A5’s

appeal. The boot is generous, wellshaped

and genuinely usable for

family life. Whether it’s luggage

for a Heathrow run, sports kit or a

weekly shop, the space is more than

adequate and reminds you exactly

why estates remain so relevant

despite the SUV craze.

Passenger space is also excellent.

The rear bench comfortably

accommodates adults, and the threezone

climate control and multiple

charging options make long journeys

far more pleasant.

My test drive covered a solid mix

of country roads, dual carriageways

and a return motorway run from

Sussex to Heathrow Airport. Through

all of it, the A5 Avant felt composed,

quiet and impeccably refined. The

204PS 2.0 TFSI engine is smooth and

pairs perfectly with the S-Tronic

twin-clutch gearbox, which shifts

unobtrusively and keeps the car in its

power band without fuss.

Performance is brisk enough,

0–62mph in 7.8 seconds and the

steering, now featuring an improved

variable ratio system, is precise

and reassuring, especially on

winding B-roads.

However, fuel economy didn’t quite

impress. On my 100-mile motorway

journey I managed just over 40mpg,

which feels a little underwhelming

for a modern 2.0-litre petrol,

especially when my 18-year-old 3.0

V6 diesel regularly returns around

45mpg. It’s not disastrous by any

means, but some drivers may expect

slightly better from an engine billed

as ultra-efficient.

Where the A5 Avant really shines

is in its breadth of technology. Even

in S Line trim, the car is loaded with

features: adaptive cruise control, a

reversing camera, parking assistant,

lane departure warning, traffic

sign recognition and a full suite of

collision-avoidance systems.

The Audi A5 Avant S Line is a superb

all-rounder, stylish, refined and

packed with technology. It balances

everyday family practicality with

genuine premium appeal and offers

a welcome alternative for those who

aren’t ready to make the jump to fully

electric motoring.

Yes, the fuel economy could be

better, and yes, the technology

can feel overwhelming at first. But

these are small criticisms in the

context of an estate car that does

so much so well.

In an era where traditional

combustion cars are becoming

increasingly rare, the A5 Avant

feels like a reassuring reminder

of what a modern petrol-powered

family car can be: comfortable,

capable, beautifully built and

designed to make every journey that

little bit easier.

For a test drive, contact Caffyns Audi

in Eastbourne on 01323 344062 or

visit www.caffyns.co.uk/audi.

Latest local news, visit: bexhill.news DECEMBER 2025 REGULARS 23

A MATTER OF TASTE

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

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

A ROAST TO REMEMBER AT

NINFIELD’S BLACKSMITHS INN

BY GARY VAN DEN BUSSCHE

THE Blacksmiths Inn in Ninfield is a

family-run Gastro pub with Head Chef

and owner, John, leading the pack

from the kitchen.

The pub has a nice feel as you walk

into the cozy dining room, on nicer

days, there is an option to eat outside.

LET

WINTER

CHECK

✓ Tyres

✓ Battery

✓ Coolant

✓ Anti-Freeze

✓ Wiper blades

✓ Fluids

✓ Light bulbs

Terms and Conditions Apply

£29.99

CALL TO BOOK YOUR CHECK

There is a large, fully stocked bar and is

dog-friendly.

I’ve been coming here since John took

ownership eight years ago and think

only spoken to him twice, as he is always

busy in the kitchen despite visiting on

Weekday evenings and weekends.

When I first started coming here, I

Please call our Service Department on 01424 730750

where our service team will be happy to assist you

76 Ninfield Road, Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, TN39 5BB.

could just walk in, but not now, as their

reputation is so good you have to book.

The staff here are very friendly and

could not be more helpful, with the head

waitress normally running the bar to

make sure everything runs smoothly.

My friend and I went on a Sunday

when they specialise in Roast dinners,

and wow, do they do it well, it would be

very hard to fault.

Roast Lamb at £19.95, which was just

slightly pink (as it should be), served on

PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE

SILVER

SERVICE

✓ Oil filter

✓ Engine oil

✓ Top up fluids

✓ Visual tyre check

✓ Brake system check

✓ Suspension check

£139.00

CALL TO BOOK YOUR SERVICE

the plate with parsnips, roast potatoes,

carrots, leeks in a cream cheese sauce,

Yorkshire pudding, gravy and a large

plate of steamed vegetables.

You most definitely get your five a

day here. You could also choose Roast

Beef (cooked as you like it), Belly Pork

(£17.95), Chicken, Gammon and more.

The tradition of the Sunday roast is

believed to have first started in the 15th

century, influenced by the custom of

leaving a large piece of meat roasting

in the oven to be enjoyed after Sunday

church service.

Another story links the roast to King

Henry VII’s guards, the Yeomen of the

Guard, who were reportedly given a

feast of roast beef on Sundays,

Over time, the Sunday roast evolved

from a royal and noble tradition to a

symbol of British family and hospitality.

The Sunday roast to this day is still very

popular in our culture and is seen as a

less grand version of Christmas lunch.

The Blacksmiths Inn also prides itself

with its specials which change regularly.

As I look up at the specials board, I’m

reading Skate Wing in black butter, Fish

Pie, Hake and many other delicioussounding

offerings. They often also have

game on the menu, such as Pheasant,

Venison or Game Pie.

Starters you can choose from Baked

camembert served with toast & red

onion chutney, Tempura Prawns, Sussex

Smokie. All starters are around £9.

Homemade desserts include Sticky

Toffee pudding, Banoffee pie, Chocolate

brownie and other such sweet treats.

We really enjoyed our lunch and

thought it was one of the best Sunday

roasts we’ve had for a while. The price

for two with 1 dessert was £48.

They are offering a Christmas party

menu in December for groups from

£29. They also offer specialist evenings

Fish‘n’Chip Friday, Tuesday Tapas Night,

& Thursday Pie evening.

A family-run gastro pub focusing

on quality home-cooked food using

seasonal, local produce & very

highly recommended.

I’d like to wish you all a very Merry

Christmas and Happy New Year.

Blacksmiths Inn

blacksmiths.inn.battle@gmail.com

01424 893875

The Grn, Ninfield, Battle TN33 9JL

www.blacksmithsinn.co.uk

GOLD

SERVICE

✓ Oil filter

✓ Air filter

✓ Fuel filter

✓ Spark plugs*

✓ Engine oil

✓ Top up fluids

✓ Full brake inspection

✓ Full suspension inspection

✓ Multi point checks and report

* Terms and Conditions Apply

£249.00

CALL TO BOOK YOUR SERVICE

CAR SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

Web: www.motorkar.co.uk Email: sales@motorkar.co.uk

4 9 6 5 3 8 7 1 2

24 PUZZLES

DECEMBER 2025


PUZZLES

WORDSEARCH

US States

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.

ALASKA

ARIZONA

ARKANSAS

GEORGIA

HAWAII

IDAHO

INDIANA

IOWA

MAINE

MONTANA

NEVADA

NEW YORK

OHIO

OREGON

TEXAS

UTAH

WEST VIRGINIA

WYOMING

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

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.

Check-box

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

E

CODEWORD

17 16 3 26 2 14 15 4 10 17 3 16 26 26

15 16 5 9 14 18 8 14

4 22 10 4 13

4 17 4

25 10 4 17 17 16

K A N S M C A H A I X A R

P E L N O N W P N D I C T

A M N I N P O D V N F K H

N T C I T E I N I U A R V

O K E M A A U G J L T M D

Z A W X N M R G A T T A L

I K F A A I P S I F Z L H

R N V E V S K B K I A K J

A O Y T E A R T L G R Z O

U G S T E S A S N O K H N

G E O R G I A I Y C A R E

W R P O Z L M W I D N B V

E O H E H O E E I X S Z A

K I Z K Y N I I A W A H D

O K U W K L T O Q P S X A

25 10 14 24 4 10 21 14

P

4 7 9 25 10 2

E

10 4 5 13 13 5 18 6

R

8 13 21 10 5

17 3 5 25 22 5 8 4 7 4 4 25 4 10

13 9 2 18 5 11 10 11

14 10 11 5 9 3 8 4 3 13 11 14 20 19

18 18 4 1 23

7 3 5 24 4 17 9 3 12 16 10 9 4 17

9 3 3 5 25 5 5 8 16

3 22 5 17 13 10 9 18 10 5 9 17 4

4 10 4 14 6 13 13 11

13 6 19 8 4 25 10 14 13 14 13 19 25 4

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

R

P

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

Across

1 Soft indoor shoe (7)

8 Instalment (7)

9 Sequoia (7)

10 Self-centredness (6)

12 Origin (6)

13 Basically (11)

17 Eccentricity not easily

explained (6)

20 Disorderly fighting (6)

23 Frontier station (7)

24 Alphabetic characters (7)

25 Industrial plant for

extracting metal

from ore (7)

Down

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1 Surface on which pictures

can be projected (6)

2 Within the confines

of a building (7)

3 Devoutly religious (5)

4 Start again (4)

5 Game with numbered

balls (5)

6 Jester (5)

7 Cup without a handle (6)

CROSSWORD

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

9

10 11 12

13 14

8

15 16

17 18 19 20 21

24

11 Currency (5)

12 Canonised person (5)

14 Hit without restraint (4,3)

15 Small ball of wool used

as a hat decoration (6)

16 Alloy of tin and lead (6)

18 Demise (5)

19 ___ pole, tribal emblem (5)

21 Remove a knot (5)

22 Creeping low plant (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 1 2

4 2

8 3 5 9

4 6 7 8

2 1

5 9 3 6

7 1 4 8

8 5

8 3 5 7

22

23

25

SOLUTIONS

8 3 9 1 6 4 2 5 7

6 4 2 8 7 5 1 3 9

5 7 1 3 2 9 4 8 6

7 2 5 9 8 3 6 4 1

3 6 8 2 4 1 9 7 5

9 1 4 6 5 7 8 2 3

2 8 3 7 1 6 5 9 4

1 5 7 4 9 2 3 6 8

4 9 6 5 3 8 7 1 2

8 3 5 7

SUDOKU

S U N F L O W E R S N U F F

W U A I O C M O

E G R E T P R O V E R B O

E S E E K I P R L

P R E S S U R E A T T A C H

4 9M T B 1 R2

A

S N A P G A M E K E E P E R

4 2

T I L C A D R D

O R8 D 3A I N M E 5N T9

D O Z Y

C 4 C6 E7 8 Q X

K N A V E

2

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1

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I N N A P A A M U

5 9 3 6

N G A S T R I C R A I S E

E 7R 1 E O 4H 8 T T D

T H Y M E8 P5R O T O T Y P E

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

CODEWORD

S L I P P E R B J B

C N I E P I S O D E

R E D W O O D N K A

E O U O G E K

E G O I S M S O U R C E

N R O A R

E S S E N T I A L L Y

B E N A P

O D D I T Y T U S S L E

B E O M N H W

B A T O U T P O S T

L E T T E R S I U E

E H M S M E L T E R

CROSSWORD

K A N S M C A H A I X A R

P E L N O N W P N D I C T

A M N I N P O D V N F K H

N T C I T E I N I U A R V

O K E M A A U G J L T M D

Z A W X N M R G A T T A L

I K F A A I P S I F Z L H

R N V E V S K B K I A K J

A O Y T E A R T L G R Z O

U G S T E S A S N O K H N

G E O R G I A I Y C A R E

W R P O Z L M W I D N B V

E O H E H O E E I X S Z A

K I Z K Y N I I A W A H D

O K U W K L T O Q P S X A

WORDSEARCH

26 SPORT

DECEMBER 2025


Poppy race closes season

for hardy Bexhill sailors

BY RACHEL WYNN

THE final race of Bexhill Sailing

Club’s season was in aid of the Royal

British Legion Poppy Appeal.

It was the club’s fifth and final

charity race for 2025. The beautiful

autumn sun brought 14 boats onto

the water (Nov 8). The swell was big,

the tide was strong, the sun was low,

the wind was westerly and gusty.

All boats started at the same time as

one fleet, so getting around the first

buoy was chaotic.

The fleet thinned out during the first

lap and by the second lap was nicely

spread. The rivalry between Bob

Palmer and Eve Fifield, both in Laser

Radials, was fun to watch from the

clubhouse balcony. Eve triumphed,

finishing 30 seconds ahead of Bob,

youthful bravado trumping decades

of experience. Chris Heath finished a

close third in his Devoti D-Zero.

Commodore, Judith Warren,

represented the club at the

Remembrance Sunday service

at the War Memorial on De La

Warr Parade, laying a wreath on

behalf of members.

The sailing club provided the

cannon fire to mark the start and

end of the two-minute silence in

gratitude and remembrance of the

fallen. The service was followed by

lunch in the clubhouse organised by

the Royal British Legion, attended by

service personnel past and present,

Bexhill Sailing Club members and

honoured guests.

The Frostbite was concluded with

only four helms brave enough to

take on the choppy conditions (Oct

26). Although the forecast was force

5 gusting 6, it was actually a little

less, and the bumpy sea did lead

to a few capsizes by the two Laser

Radials (Fast fleet) of Arne Lovius

and Logan Adams.

Logan took the Fast fleet win,

having completed one more lap than

Arne. The two catamarans enjoyed

the blast through the waves, with Flo

Wright and Abi Wright completing

one more lap than Wendy Watkins

and Dave Baldwin, so taking the

Catamaran fleet win. However,

Lovius (Fast) and Watkins/Baldwin

(Catamaran) took the Frostbite

Series trophies.

Members now pack up their

boats until March although the

social committee have been

working overtime.

A Halloween Murder Mystery

— written and produced by

talented member Lucinda

Silva — featured some amazing

acting, fabulous costumes and a

delicious meal (Oct 31).

The following evening was 'Pickle

Night', which celebrates HMS Pickle,

a royal navy schooner, being the

first to bring news of the Trafalgar

victory and Lord Nelson's death back

to England in 1805. Lots of rum shots

and passing the port. Well, it would

have been rude not to.

Please contact membership@

bexhillsailing.club for details of our

2026 season memberships.

Feeley leads 11-try

H&B rampage

BY MAX MOWBRAY

Walking footballers

getting up to speed

BY ROB CAREY

HASTINGS and Bexhill RFC's first

XV produced a convincing 71-0

home victory over New Ash Green.

They put on a classy show of skill

and composure to provide an 11-

try spectacle for fans that braved

questionable conditions.

The first in the flurry of tries came

from prop Jacob McDonough after a

strong arm-wrestle on the opposition

line, just minutes into the game.

Powerhouse second row Calvin

Crosby-Clarke was next over the line,

soon followed by youngster George

Feeley, returning from injury in style

with a hat-trick before half-time.

H&B continued in this manner for

much of the game and gallant captain

Harry Walker finished off the half

with two scores of his own, making it

45-0 at the break.

Crosby-Clarke opened the secondhalf

scoring, and slick hands from

Hastings’ confident back line allowed

half-back Isaac Wales and full-back

Tom Hirst to cross the whitewash

shortly after. The second half also saw

winger Sam Surridge take over the

boot, elevating the score to 64-0 going

into the final quarter.

As the minutes trickled away and

the points piled up, tempers flared.

Crosby-Clarke added a ten-minute

break to his hat-trick avoidance

punishment, and Hastings found

themselves pinned, defending their

own line. The home side fought

brilliantly, led in the charge by back

row menace Lawrence Maynard, and

maintained a clean sheet.

Special mention should also go to

returning forward Joe Jenner, who

was called in as a late replacement to

steady the scrum and was unlucky to

not finish a try down the wing late on.

The game finished with a strong

galloping run from Man of the Match

Wales to score under the posts,

ending proceedings in good spirits

from both teams, at a final score 71-0.

H&B XV II were not so lucky —

despite putting in a strong defensive

performance away to a brutal Seaford

outfit. Fighting their way back

from a 20-point deficit at half-time,

the young guns did the club proud

(steadied by some older heads) and

Man of the Match, Isaac Wales

ended the game 35-12, with notable

debuts for Jack Merrell, Jude Collard

and Coulson Smith.

THE Old Bexhillians Walking

Football Club are underway with

their league and friendly fixtures.

With no league games, the Seniors

Over-68s team recently played three

friendly games against Eastbourne

United Seniors with two draws and

a narrow 1-0 defeat. The OBWFC

team had a rest from the league to

entertain Tonbridge Insulators WFC

(Paddock Wood) in a friendly at

Bexhill College to keep in shape and,

despite a defeat, it was a chance to

experiment with the side.

The club’s Jesse Birdsall was

recently on international referee

duties in the Walking Football World

Nations Cup 2025 in Torrevieja, Spain.

Off the field, there has been plenty

going on. The club are proud to be

associated with local charities and

this year fundraising has turned its

attention once again to Warming up

the Homeless and a new charity to the

club — The 1066 Pink Ladies.

The club organised a Charity

Music Night at the Wheatsheaf Inn,

Little Common, who are a valued

sponsor and £400 was raised for

the two charities.

Club player Nick Gardner recently

undertook The South Downs Way

Charity Walk for ANDYSMANSCLUB

— a men’s suicide prevention charity.

He raised over £1,500 for the cause.

The club is sad to lose one of its own

— Ian Lambert — who sadly passed

last month. He was a committed

session player and renowned for

his baking prowess — the fruits

of his labours enjoyed by walking

Pictured, chairman Mick Davies hands

over a cheque to the 1066 Pink Ladies.

footballers over the years.

Next summer the Rock Cake

Cup will be contested at some stage

as a tribute to the well-liked Ian.

Plans are well on course for the

club’s in-house band Coast Road

to perform at the Wheatsheaf on

New Year’s Eve.

The club plans to hold a large WF

event next July with teams from

the Sussex area competing, while

a golf day and other social events

are being planned.

Full details about OBWFC, for

players aged 50 and over (Gents)

and 40 and over (Ladies), can be

obtained from the club chair, Mr

Mick Davies, on 07961 008743 or at

mickdavies48@gmail.com.

Award

winning care

homes

We’re proud to be recognised for

our excellence in care, winning

more awards than any other

provider in the last three years.

If you’re considering a care home,

call 01323 917394 or visit

careuk.com/bowes-house

Trusted to care

Bowes House care home

Hailsham

28 SPORT

DECEMBER 2025


Sport

Boss Eldridge ready to

test Common’s mettle

BY MIKE LEGG

RUSSELL ELDRIDGE has targeted

more “steel” from his side as Little

Common strive to break into

the top half of the SCFL premier

division table.

Ahead of last weekend’s visit of

Lancing, Common had won two and

lost two in November.

The player-boss admitted: “It

has been an up and down month,

with a couple of good wins at the

beginning but followed up with a

couple of losses. We have struggled

for consistency.

“There have been a few injury,

suspension and availability issues of

late but that’s no excuse as in certain

games we could be doing better. We

are very inconsistent; we either win

or lose and there is no in between

at the moment. We need to find a

way that if we don’t win, then we

don’t lose the game.

“We have just got to be a more

resilient and show a bit more steel at

times. We have to make sure we get

the basics right in games.

“We are mid-table, which is

reflective of our win-or-lose

performances with nothing in the

middle, so that’s why we would like to

strive for that consistency so we can

push above mid-table.

“December is always a difficult

month though due to many games

becoming weather-dependent,

but we have the trip to Guernsey

to look forward to, which is

something new for us.”

Key man Sam Adams still has to

finish a suspension, but skipper Matt

Cruttwell is now back in goal.

The month started with a 2-0 win

over Crawley Down, courtesy of

goals from Adams and Sam Ellis, and

Common hit back from 3-1 down to

win 4-3 against Old Varndeanians as

Kenny Pogue (two), Reuben Martin

and Adams all netted. Defeats to

Forest Row and leaders Haywards

Heath followed.

Little Common December fixtures:

Guernsey (away, Dec 6); Eastbourne

United (home, Dec 13); Shoreham

(away, Dec 20); Bexhill United

(away, Dec 27).

MEANWHILE, Jay Skinner-

Swain hopes Bexhill United’s

next run of games may prove

more “favourable” as they

fight to maintain their spot

around the top eight.

United have locked horns with

two of the division’s most in-form

sides in recent weeks — leaders

Haywards Heath and second-placed

Steyning Town (twice). They kick off

December against high-flying Forest

Row before three games against sides

currently below them in the table,

including local rivals Little Common.

Boss Skinner-Swain felt the 2-1

defeat to Lingfield at the start of

November, when Will Saunders

struck a late consolation, was

probably their first “shock defeat”

of the campaign.

Although they bounced back with

a 4-1 win at Shoreham in which

Saunders, Dan Rogers, Jack Shonk

and Nathan Crabb scored, tough

league and cup encounters followed

Vinny crowned as he takes gold in Sweden

BY MIKE LEGG

BEXHILL Boxing Club returned

with a gold and two silver

medals from the King of the Ring

Box Cup in Sweden.

An eight-strong party travelled

and 13-year-old Vinny Barefoot led

the medal charge in Boras with gold

after overcoming a strong and more

experienced Italian in his final.

Josh Mutiboko, 19, beat an opponent

from Ramsgate in his semi-final final

but had to pull out of the final due to

illness and returned with a silver.

Cody Dorey-Parks, 20, produced

his best performance to date

against a good, slick southpaw from

Bexhill's medal winners in Sweden

Sweden but lost on a close splitdecision

for silver.

Terry Davies, 23, won by unanimous

decision against an opponent from

Finland but, unfortunately, lost out on

a silver by losing to an Italian on a 3/2

Bexhill ABC's boxers in Sweden

split decision in a tight bout that could

have easily gone the other way.

Sonny Studley, 19, narrowly lost

out on a silver medal against a tall,

rangy boxer from Ireland on a 4-1

split decision. The Irish lad won the

first round, shaded the second before

Studley came back strongly in the

third before losing the decision.

Matt Crutwell punches clear. Photo credit: James Gething HHFC

Will Wright, 21, won by unanimous

decision against an Italian but there

was major disappointment as he lost

on a 3/2 split decision in his next bout

to an opponent from Afghanistan

with the club coaches convinced he

had done enough.

Fraizer Stephenson, 17, suffered a

hand injury in his first bout and had

against Steyning — which both

ended in defeat.

A 4-1 loss in the RUR Cup (Nov 11)

was followed by a 2-1 league defeat

at the Polegrove 11 days later. That

came after the much-anticipated

home clash with Guernsey was

postponed on November 15.

Crabb grabbed a late consolation

against Steyning in the league setback

but Skinner-Swain had no real gripes

about the result.

He said: “Steyning are a very

good side. The 4-1 Cup win maybe

flattered them a little but the 2-1 was

a fair reflection. We had two good

chances before they scored, and if

either of them had gone in it gives you

something to hold on to.

“But looking ahead, we owe Forest

Row for what they did to us earlier in

the season (4-1 defeat) while we play

Little Common in the derby. It’s a

derby so nothing more has to be said

— you want to put on a show and there

should be a big gate.”

And Skinner-Swain is still ruing

the big gate the Pirates missed

out on when the Guernsey clash

was postponed — many believe

prematurely — 24 hours before

the game due to the referee’s

fears further rain would make the

match unplayable.

Skinner-Swain said: “That was

a bizarre decision. It could have

been a big earner for the club

with no Premier League football

that weekend and Hastings away

from home, too.”

Another blow is losing skipper

Richie Welch for up to six weeks.

He has had a minor op that

will keep him out.

Bexhill December fixtures: Forest

Row (home, Dec 6); Seaford Town

(away, Dec 13); AFC Varndeanians

(home, Dec 20); Little Common

(home, Dec 27).

to withdraw, while Callum Aling was

placed into the wrong category and

the coaches felt the jump would have

been asking too much this year, so

he did not box.

Coach Terry Freeman said: “Overall,

it was another great experience for

our club and our boxers and our

second time at the tournament after

bringing home two golds and a silver

from five boxers two years ago.

Hopefully, it is something we can

continue to do for years to come.”

The club is still seeking sponsorship

towards a new minibus or some new

matted flooring for the gym. Anyone

who can help, please contact Terry

on 07840 914 432.

Bexhill News, December 2025, Issue 42

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