Activist speaks in Bexhill

The event, organised by the Bexhill and Hastings Branch of the United Nations Association, took place in Parkhurst Hall, Sackville Road at 11am.

Bruce Kent, who spent time in Bexhill as a child, founded the Abolition of War movement ten years ago and is active in the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND).

His speech focused on nuclear weapons and in particular the Trident Submarines, which carry nuclear missiles.

He placed great emphasis on Barack Obama's role in the deceleration of nuclear arms, whom he described as "a gift from God".

He said: "I think today is a great opportunity for Bexhill and Hastings to take a positive step towards understanding the need to move towards a world where conflicts are not resolved by military means.

"The cost of militarianism is so enormous, if we reversed it we could focus on the real needs of humanity."

Barbara Echlin, committee member for the Branch, said: "We are delighted Bruce has come to speak here again, we all need to eliminate these immoral weapons.

"I don't think the UN gets the recognition it deserves over the world. It is doing tremendously good work on peace keeping, with UNICEF and on the environment.

"What we try to do locally is raise awareness of some of these issues."

Next event for the association is on Bank Holiday Monday, May 25, when a coffee morning and open garden with organic fruit and vegetables will be held at 13, Thornbank Crescent, from 10am.

For more information contact branch secretary Allan Bula on 210410.