Pavilion's special guest

Daria Joseph, the granddaughter of Pavilion architect Erich Mendlesohn, and great-granddaughter, Alexis Petty both received a tour around one of Southern England's most iconic buildings on a crystal clear Spring day.

Mrs Joseph, who now lives on the outskirts of San Francisco, said: "It is such a thrill to come back to Bexhill and the see the Pavilion looking so good.

"It is special for me to see something my grand-father designed again. Apart from the style of the building - which I think is wonderful '“ it's the feeling it gives to the local community that makes it special."

In 1933 the Mayor of Bexhill launched an international competition for a new Pavilion for arts and entertainment. a number of German-Jewish architects came to Britain following Hitler's rise to power.

Mrs Joseph's grandfather and his partner beat off 229 other competitors and were commissioned to design the new Pavilion.

Mrs Joseph added: "The world was a completely different place back then but this building has stood the test of time. I am proud to be standing here once again and I'm proud that this is something my grandfather designed."

Sally Ann Lycett, head of communications at the Pavilion said: "We were very pleased to have her visit. She wanted to keep the visit low key but she really enjoyed seeing the Pavilion for herself once again."

Before heading back to London for the rest of her holiday, Mrs Joseph quipped: "I wish this was my house. If it was, this would be my bedroom and I would have a lovely view."

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