Hunt is on for 'missing' 1,000

A SEARCH has begun to find the 'missing members' of Seaford Residents' Association.

Minutes secretary Peter White said 'administrative shortcomings' had resulted in the group losing contact with some of its members.

'The committee is determined to find that missing membership. More than that, they are determined to increase their numbers by contacting newly arrived residents who have not had the opportunity to join before.'

Five years ago membership was 2,000 compared to just 1,000 today.

The association is keen to attract people who already belong to smaller groups representing individual blocks of flats, retirement homes and streets of housing association properties.

Mr White said the association played an important role in the town. 'Members belong mainly because the association gives them a voice, independent of any party politics, to speak to local councils and administrative organisations.

'The residents have strong links to the police, the local MP, transport organisations, Citizens Advice and other public bodies. They serve on the Community Partnership, and monitor all town council meetings.'

Established since 1959, the association also gives the views of members to a variety of forum groups and helps fund activities as diverse as Seaford in Bloom, Christmas lights, CCTV and the new Jubilee Gate.

Each year it holds at least three open meetings with guest speakers and produces a magazine, The Resident, which provides members with updates of activities.

New copies of The Resident will be sent out from mid-September. Members who have not received their copy by the end of the month should contact the association to ensure its still has their details.

Anyone living within the Seaford boundary can join by sending their details and a cheque for 1.50 payable to SRA, to: Seaford Residents Association, FREEPOST, Seaford, BN25 3BR, or visit the website: www.communigate.co.uk/sussex/seafordresidentsassociation/