Observer Editorial

There was a warmth, a jollity about the occasion. Above all, there as a sense of cohesion; of pulling together at a difficult time.

With so many businesses setting out their stall to attract shoppers, so many going the "extra mile" and offering seasonal greetings - from mince pies and coffee to wine - there was a definite feeling that the town's business community is determined to fight the 'credit crunch'.

That corporate effort was the result of one of the most concerted campaigns by the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism for some years.

In some ways even more encouraging was the way that the shopping public appeared to respond to the traders' efforts.

The cold chill of economic reality is still there. Though the crowds were joining in the carol-singing by the schools and churches, enjoying the live music provided and laughing along with traders who had donned fancy dress, there is no disguising the fact that these are the most difficult economic times we have experienced in decades.

The Bexhill 100 Motoring Club's hooting cavalcade of classic cars made a cheering sight with their twinkling fairy lights.

But they were passing Woolworths which, barring some last-minute rescue bid, could be ending a century of international trading.

If Bexhill's store closes along with the rest, it will leave a major gap in the town's principal shopping street.

While the crowds were watching and waving to the passing motorcade they also had their backs to many locally-owned businesses which, sadly, stood dark and are no longer trading.

But the mood on the night was one of optimism and it is a spirit which must be taken forward beyond Christmas spending and into the unknown quantity which is 2009.

Amid the closures, there are also a handful of new-comers, bold entrepreneurs willing to defy present conditions and prove they can buck the trend.

We need more of the spirit displayed during Late-Night Shopping to inject life back into the economy.

Meanwhile, well done the Chamber of Commerce.

May your efforts be rewarded.