Nautical landmark is back

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A giant anchor is back in place outside Rye Heritage Centre at the Strand after an absence of more than a year.

Despite various rumours surrounding the disappearance of the anchor, it was in fact the subject of a long restoration project.

Rye Heritage Centre manager Peter Cosstick said: “For years the anchor has been one of Rye’s key landmarks, enjoyed by residents and visitors from all over the world, who love to be photographed beside it.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to all of those involved in the restoration project including Carl Bagwell MBE, Harbour Master James Bateman, Deputy Harbour Master Karl Sandercock, all those lovely environment agency volunteers at the Scots Float Depot especially Nick Smith.”

The three ton anchor dates from around 1530 and was recovered from Rye Bay in 1993.

Peter Cosstick The anchor was probably from a large “man o’ war” vessel similar to the famous Mary Rose, which carried 800 men. Ships often lost their anchors by lowering them while moving too fast through the water.

Rye Heritage Centre is now in its 25th Year. The Centre opened in 1990 and continues to serve the town as a key attraction and important visitor information centre.

To help celebrate our Silver Jubilee, during the big Rye Maritime Festival on Sunday August 2, we will be running the Rye Town Model – Sound and Light Show throughout the day, free of charge.

The first show will commence at 10am and then shows will be running every 30 minutes with the last show at 4.30 pm.

“Whilst the show is free, we will be collecting donations to pass on to our chosen local children’s charity ‘Demelza House’, so we look forward to seeing you on the day.”

For more on Rye Heritage Centre and its opening times visit:www.ryeheritage.co.uk.

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