All hail our conquering crew on their return

This is a huge achievement '“ 68 days at sea in tropical temperatures and rowing and sleeping in shifts is something most of us would lack both the physical and mental strength to do.

Not only have Matt Hellier, Ian Allen and Nick and Phil McCorry proved themselves as athletes, they have shown just what can be attained under arduous conditions when four people work together as a close-knit team.

Even so they may not have succeeded had it not been for the excellent back-up and course directions they received from Row4Charity shore manager Geoff Dixon and his supporters.

Along with family, friends and a worldwide audience on the internet, the Bexhill Observer has been keeping a close eye on the rowers, with regular reports and updates each week.

From the start, it's been a monumental story to follow and a strong antidote to the general doom and gloom of the recession and the row over MPs' expenses.

Row4Charity's endeavour is likely to live in Bexhill folklore for a very long time '“ and is sure to bring in an enormous amount of cash for the group's nominated charity, The Stroke Association.

All of us at the Observer would like to say well done lads, and welcome home.

We hope you enjoy your press cuttings when you get the chance to catch up with them.

THE other slice of good news for this week was the weather '“ sizzling sunshine naturally brings out the best of Bexhill and what it has to offer.

There was almost a Continental feeling in the town this week, with people making use of the opportunity to eat and drink outside at bars, restaurants and cafes.

And of course there's the seafront and the beach '“ the perfect place to relax, have fun and soak up a few rays.

Let's hope the final designs for the Next Wave scheme enhance this wonderful place and not diminish it as so many fear.