Bexhill: De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand ripped apart by Storm Eunice as record-breaking winds hit UK

A famous bandstand has been torn apart by the fury of Storm Eunice.
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The De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand on Bexhill seafront was blasted by strong winds and now lies in pieces.

It came after the Bexhill and Hastings area were upgraded to a “rare red warning for wind” as Storm Eunice gathered strength. Gusts of 122mph were recorded on the Isle of Wight, which the Met Office said were provisionally the highest on record in England.

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The De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand has been torn apart by the high winds of Storm Eunice. Pic: De La Warr Pavilion.The De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand has been torn apart by the high winds of Storm Eunice. Pic: De La Warr Pavilion.
The De La Warr Pavilion Bandstand has been torn apart by the high winds of Storm Eunice. Pic: De La Warr Pavilion.

The iconic piece of architecture was installed 20 years ago and was a popular attraction for visitors and tourists to the town.

It was designed by Niall McLaughlin Architects in conversation with Bexhill school children, and had a number of affectionate names including The Whale Tail, the Sea Shell, and The Heart.

The bandstand hosted swing bands, folk bands, indie bands, rockabilly bands, young musicians, acid house music, DJs and children’s choirs, and was given a makeover in 2017.

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A spokesperson for the De La Warr Pavilion said: “Awarded the Regional RIBA Prize in 2002, the Bandstand has been at heart of our most democratic of spaces – the south terrace – and platformed international artists such as Eddie Izzard, Keane and Jeremy Deller’s Acid Brass. It has been a springboard for first outings for local bands that became famous such as Mumm-Ra, and our many talented community choirs, musicians and groups.

“We invite you to share with us your stories of the Bandstand – whether you appeared on it, danced in front of it, sat in a deckchair listening to music, had your wedding photograph taken on it, or were one of the original schoolchildren who helped design it – any memory or photograph to celebrate 20 years of the Bandstand being part of our story would be fantastic to see. Post on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter tagging the De La Warr Pavilion or send your stories and images to info@dlwp.com.”

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