Your letters - July 10

Chivalry isn't dead

WE hear so much about younger folk being terrible '“ imagine my surprise when on Saturday morning I was approached by two young gentlemen who asked whether I had far to go, and could they carry my shopping for me.

I was on my way home from Sainsbury's to Wickham Avenue where I usually refresh myself with a cup of tea.

I'm not exactly a damsel in distress but was extremely grateful.

They jokingly said that they 'could do a bunk' which made me laugh. They were really charming and revived my faith in human nature. The news these days is usually full of gloom and doom.

Their parents should be really proud of them. Thank you.

I didn't think to ask their names.

One good piece of news is fine '“ two marvellous '“ congratulations to my two young gentlemen and to our valiant four '“ Bexhill rowers '“ for their epic event in winning their rowing of the Indian Ocean race!

I've been in storms on the high seas in a cargo ship '“ a rowing boat doesn't bear thinking about!

BARBARA THORP

The Glades

Bexhill

Strokes for strokes

WARMEST congratulations to Bexhill's "oarsome foursome" at the end of their amazing race across the Indian Ocean in such a small boat.

On Friday, June 26 at 10.41am they crossed the finishing line in first place '“ despite being rudderless at the end of the race.

Their friends, families, and, most of all the boys themselves must have been so delighted and proud when they crossed the finishing line. And to have won is just amazing.

The members of the Stroke Care Review Board for East Sussex are particularly in their debt as the foursome are raising money for the Stroke Association and this wonderful effort will certainly raise the profile of Stroke Care and will help stroke sufferers everywhere.

Our thanks to them. We applaud their courage.

DR ANGHARAD DAVIES

Chairman Stroke Review East Sussex Health Overview And Scrutiny Committee

Basket background

WE are sorry that our lack of hanging baskets disappointed Miss Thunstrom from Broadstairs (Observer, June 26).

The Bexhill Old Town Preservation Society provides and maintains the baskets in Old Town. However, this year Hanover House was excluded from the scheme.

We would have provided our own, had we known in time.

JENNIFER AND BRIAN MILLER

Hanover House

High Street

Bexhill

MPs' hypocrisy

SO large numbers of MPs and peers, of all political colours, have had their noses so far stuck into the trough we certainly cannot now recognise their faces.

We as tax payers have been asked to pay for duck houses, moat cleaning and property speculation on a grand scale, and more generally repayment for things you or I would clearly see as purely for our own personal requirements.

These are people for whom we voted at the last General Election with at least some degree of respect and trust.

I am sure that there will be more revelations to be made in the area of MPs' expenses, both nationally and locally, but David Cameron quite rightly emphasised ("Top Tories giving up second jobs" '“ BBC website) that the area of MPs' other activities needs the same degree of scrutiny that has just been applied to their expenses.

Let us not forget that these are the people who pontificate on benefit cheats, for doing some work on the side, when they are doing just the same, working on the side by using their positions as MPs or peers to be paid for probably fictitious work.

Andrew Lansley, Conservative MP for South Cambridgeshire, admitted with not an ounce of conscience or shame recently on Question Time that he "earned" 24,000 for a non-executive directorship for which he "works" one day per month.

For readers' information the annual average wage last year was 24,908, while that for women alone was only 21,424: but that is another story.

STEPHEN HARDY

High Street

Robertsbridge

Parking woes

I WHOLEHEARTEDLY agree with the letter about pavement parking.

It is happening more and more in residential roads and is an everyday occurrence along Terminus Road just along from the police station!

If the police turn a blind eye to it outside their own premises what chance is there for stopping it elsewhere?

Another problem which is becoming more prevalent is the use of cones by householders to secure a parking space outside their homes.

As the Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator for this area, I informed my contact of this last year and was told that it had been passed to the police for them to deal with. No action was taken.

I do wonder whether it is worth bothering to report such things in the future.

BRENDA MORGAN

Harewood Close

Bexhill

Day would be too long

I AM very concerned that Mr Conn is proposing an increase to the hours students spend in school.

Even independent schools which do have a longer day, have an hour for lunch and a morning and afternoon break.

They also have longer holidays to compensate for the longer day.

Mr Conn has told parents the pupils are to have a morning break plus half an hour for their lunch and nothing in the afternoon.

In my opinion this makes the day far too long, working people have longer breaks than this.

The point he makes about having no more homework as an incentive for parents to agree to his proposal seems to me ridiculous.

Part of learning, and preparing for either work or further education is the ability to work independently at home, this is a skill and will not be learnt if they have to stay at school to do it.

It will do students no favours if they go to college, the teachers there expect them to be able to work independently.

Mr Conn does not have children so perhaps he does not understand that families like to spend time together and if the children get home after 5pm this really will impact on family life.

Those of us with younger children often eat around 5pm and we like to eat together.

TANIA TURNER

St David's Avenue

Bexhill

School day is too long

I WOULD like to register my protest through your pages to the lengthening of school hours at Bexhill High.

Our children need to have a childhood, it's over too soon as it is.

Mr Conn states that the new hours are about having "a far greater degree of flexibility to deliver the curriculum". His words.

Might I suggest that if Mr Conn can't deliver the curriculum efficiently within normal school hours (like most schools in the country manage to) that he seriously asks the question "why not?". I for one don't believe it's anything to do with not enough time.

Maybe Mr Conn should divert his attentions to raising standards of teaching to enable the curriculum to be delivered efficiently and leave our children's valuable childhoods alone.

NAME AND ADDRESS SUPPLIED

Firework fallout

WE as caring dog owners regularly walk our dogs along the seafront of a evening due to the heat in the day.

On Thursday July 2 at about 9pm a group of what looked like fully grown adults on a balcony decided that it was the right time to let of a firework display without any thought for our two dogs and another gentleman walking his dog and a group of people on the beach in one of the huts.

A short walk across the road would have stopped the used fireworks from raining down on us (within 5 feet of us).

As a consequence we now have a terrier who is nervous of loud noises.

It was only half-light so these people would have seen us.

They obviously did not care so from us and our two dogs and the other gentleman whose arm was at full stretch with his dog pulling to get away, please enjoy your fireworks but be more considerate of others.

K UNDERHILL

Cornwall Road

Bexhill

Keep me in the loop

IN response to the letter from Mrs Chris Cross, 'Hearing Problems' the Observer, what I would really like is to hear from someone who has had a totally satisfactory hearing loop experience at the DLWP, and would they please tell me exactly which seat they occupied.

I have attended three performances there, each time when booking tickets I have mentioned that I use hearing aids, but I have never detected any trace of the system.

I am sure that it must be there and that it must work, but please which seat do I have to sit in to use it?

TIM ROSNER

Marina

Bexhill

Holy verse

GOD and Mammon

I believe if a man rose from the dead

And said, 'I am the risen Christ' the world would crucify him.

At St Barnabas we have gone one better without waiting for the

Man to arise the parochial Church Council have voted to crucify

this church.

The Passing

It was the ninth hour

When a thin wisp of cloud shrouded the sun.

The last hallowed chimes from the steeple tower

Their mournful dirge had begun.

The dead cannot rise from he past

To shatter the dreams of he living

But how mightily the dreams of the past

Are shattered by the deeds of the living;

Alas the Bells of St Barnabas have ceased ringing

And with a loud Amen the angels have ceased their shout,

Even the birds have ceased their singing

For there is nothing left for them to sing about!

Amen, Amen, Amen the silent bells intone

'Who among you will tear down the first stone?'

DR RV WHITLOCK

Knole Road

Church's place in our hearts

OVER recent years, St Barnabas Church has not always had the most positive of associations and the current public perception that the church has closed or is about to close is not only untrue but works against the wish of the ever increasing congregation, that St Barnabas can once again regain its place at the heart of the local community as the parish church of Bexhill.

Several well-attended meetings have been held recently under the title 'Going for Growth' and on Sunday July 12 we are holding a parish day from 11 am - 4.30 pm.

Father Roger Crosthwaite is calling together not only members of the congregation but anyone interested in helping to decide the necessary strategies to grow the church over the next five years.

There will be three sessions throughout the day beginning with mass at 11am.

These will be led by Captain Gordon Banks and Peter Schofield, who are diocesan advisors in mission and renewal and they will guide us as we work towards a Mission Action Plan for our parish.

There will be refreshments availableeveryone is invited and will be very welcome.

J EDGAR

Member of St Barnabas Congregation

De La Warr Road

Peace be upon even them

I WAS deeply saddened to read that Keith Standring is proud to be a member of the BNP.

His use of the words "national sovereignty" merely confirms what we all know '“ that the BNP is a racist organisation.

I defend to the last Mr Standring's right to express his views but I would also point out that we are all one race, the human race.

Mr Standring and his ilk would no doubt dispute this. Peace and best wishes.

DAVID BARRY

Terminus Road

Bexhill-on-Sea

His true colours are revealed

HAS Mr Standring forgotten the inconvenient truth about his own track record (Bexhill Observer, July 3)?

He is something of a mystery man himself '“ a man of many parties. He is variously described as a former guardsman, having served in British Intelligence for 30 years, International Trade Union Solidarity Campaign General Secretary (promoting Marxism), member of the Conservative Party, member of the Freedom Association, and now BNP candidate in Hastings.

He was a Rother district councillor, representing Sackville ward, but he resigned because he could not "in all conscience continue" in the role given to him by Rother Conservatives.

For those of you who are old enough to recall the popular TV programme, 'will the real Keith Standring please stand up!'

Mr Standring, a regular contributor to these columns, urged us on one occasion to find out about the Hampden Trust, a far right organisation masquerading as a registered charity (try Googling it).

He has perhaps revealed one of his true colours as a BNP candidate in Hastings.

He confuses freedom of the individual with totalitarian fascism.

Fascists are not interested in representative politics or democracy.

Perhaps this may explain why David Cameron signed up to Unite Against Fascism (UAF).

Liberal Democrats joined the UN in opposing the Iraq war from the outset, and condemn violence for whatever reason.

Those of us who remember why this country reluctantly declared war in 1939 need no lectures from me '“ a mere bulge baby.

We were trying to defend our British way of life and our allies in Europe from invasion by fascist forces.

Extreme parties will always be the refuge of the disenchanted, disillusioned and disconnected members of society.

Don't mistake them for freedom. They wish to control you '“ nothing less.

COUNCILLOR MARTYN FORSTER

Rother member for St Michael's Ward

Service was such a success

REFERENCE our Armed Forces Day church service at St Augustine's on June 27:

As the chairman of the Bexhill Royal Naval Association I would like to thank all those who attended this service, especially the Rev Robert Coates and his helpers for making it a success for all present.

The Sea Cadets from TS Hastings and the Air Force Cadets who attended were very smart and a credit not only to their Units but also to the youth of the country.

The head of Rother District Council, the Mayor and our MP Greg Barker who attended and inspected the Cadets, RNA, MVS and the Standard Bearers.

Finally I would like to thank Tesco and Sainsbury's for supporting this event.

A total sum of 223 was raised and this will be donated to the charity Help For Heroes, which provides help and treatment for servicemen.

ERIC WOODHOUSE

Chairman RNA

Noble achievement

AS president of Bexhill Rowing club I feel compelled to write to express my utmost admiration and respect for Ian Allen, Matt Hellier, and Phil and Nick McCorry, the four young men who have now returned to Bexhill as victors of the inaugural Woodvale Indian Ocean Race 2009.

I would not here presume to comment on the enormous task they set themselves some two years ago, the story of how they got to the start line and the great race thereafter, is for the boys to tell. I will leave it to them to enthrall us, with their own words, the story of their great adventure.

It didn't really come as much of a surprise when I first heard of the boys' intentions.

They are all experienced and highly successful coastal rowers, and were under no illusion as to the enormous physical and psychological challenges that lay ahead of them.

That challenges are to be met, is a long fostered attitude of the club, hence we have among our members, past European and National Indoor rowing champions and record holders, we have coastal champions and CARA champions.

We are consistently the most successful rowing club on the coast and are regular challengers at the Coastal World Championships, Henley Regatta, Dorny Lake and other river venues. With hindsight, an ocean race was, sooner or later, an inevitable addition to the long list of member's achievements.

There has been an enormous amount of help given, and generosity shown to boys but, ultimately, it was their hard work and commitment that got them to the start line. Then it was their determination, tenacity, resourcefulness and sheer bloody-mindedness that brought them 3,500 miles across one of the worlds wildest and most unpredictable oceans.

I, along with many others, have been enthralled, for 69 days, by following their progress, "blob watching". I have now been honoured and proud to shake the hands of Phil and Nick McCorry, and look forward to greeting Ian and Matt, when they return to Bexhill, in similar fashion. I also very much look forward to the celebrations being held to honour these brave young men, not only as winners of the race, but also for raising 15,000 for the Stroke Association in the process. I offer my sincerest congratulations to the boys for a challenge so well met, and so convincingly overcome.

As ever, there is a backroom team that holds it all together so, I must also pay tribute to Geoff Dixon, the boys' brilliant shore manager based here in Bexhill, The Bexhill Trust, the main sponsor, Andy Bristow, who advised so extensively on their course, Paul and Jackie at the Waterfront for their unflinching support and enthusiasm, the

Bexhill Observer for the excellent coverage each week, and to all the sponsors, helpers and well wishers who made it all possible.

And finally'¦has anyone got any unwanted sea charts for the Atlantic?

GERALD MATTHEWS

President

Bexhill Rowing Club

Thanks for return

COULD I please thank two lovely people through the Bexhill Observer for finding and returning my late father's Military Service and Pay Booklet which was published in your June 19 edition.

Grateful thanks from my family and me to Gwyneth and Basil Ludkin of Little Common Royal British Legion for the safe return of this booklet, which belonged to George Alfred Abraham Bentley.

Once again, thank you.

GUY BENTLEY

Grange Court Drive

Bexhill

Memorial is fitting

I FEEL I must write to say how very upset I was to read the article in last week's Bexhill Observer regarding Bob Erends' memorial having to be removed because of the actions of the residents of Beaulieu Road.

I was present at the memorial evening and noticed that there are several memorial benches on the green which have been set on concrete and am astonished the residents are protesting at the fact that this very subtle and stylish sundial has been placed there.

It is completely complementary to the benches and as any study clearly shows, it's sympathetic design enhances way the sun moves the shadow across its surface. The sundial completes the area and cannot be viewed as anything but a tasteful addition to the environment.

Not only did Bob risk his life to save others as a firefighter; he was a much loved, extremely kind and caring person. He was fortunate enough to be a very talented artist who not only painted for his own benefit but, through his teaching, brought painting to others which gave hope and support during their difficult times and terminal illnesses.

He and his widow Kathy have also raised thousands of pounds for the local hospice and I feel it is a very callous way to behave by denying a place of comfort in an area that they shared together and loved.

His paintings are already well-known all over the world, and I am convinced that one day he will be justifiably recognised as a gifted artist. A pity then that the residents of Beaulieu Road will be able to claim their place in history as to being the vindictive small-minded group who denied him a memorial!

The day may come when these residents may wish to have a memorial for one of their spouses or relatives; maybe then they may have a better insight as to how it feels to lose a loved one. Hopefully they will not be denied the opportunity to celebrate that life in a memorial.

Clearly Beaulieu Road is not a place that recognises compassion...

NITA CARDER

Collinswood Drive,

St Leonards

Well done, bunnies

CONGRATULATIONS to Lorna, Darren, Julie and Rosie for completing the sixth Lord Brett Mclean challenge, walking from Hastings pier to Eastbourne pier in aid of charity.

Well done from the bunny team, especially as Rosie is only 12.

SUE HORSMAN

Buxton Drive

Bexhill

Call to action '“ now

READING in the Observer that once again the beach huts have been the target of thieves and vandals and that the police informed Mr Dunn they would send someone "today or tomorrow", I really feel that for all the money we put into our Council Tax we are being let down by all the authorities that should really be looking after us.

Personally I would not hold my breath that the police have by now attended the scene. It seems that our police are only out as a real 'force' when it comes to raiding the coffers of local inhabitants with hikes in our Council Tax over the four per cent figure each year or emptying the pockets of drivers for sometimes fairly menial acts of 'breaking the law' whilst the real villains get away scot-free yet again.

One of my work colleagues was assaulted by a stranger at work and the police were called, stating that they took the attack 'very seriously' and would be along. They turned up over two weeks later.

A block of flats where my partner works was broken into and a very nice young lady from the scenes of crime unit or its equivalent turned up to examine the handle on the outside of a frequently used door '“ two days later and in the dark.

It makes you so proud to be British and living in a so called 'civilised' land even if we are now the third most violent country in the world, and then people ask why even the girls are getting dangerous. The simple answer is they see the men getting away with it!

I trust that Lee Dunn has seen his case investigated by now and that a good conclusion has come out of it.

KELLY STEWART

Duke Street