In pictures: Hastings Winkle Club puts on Christmas Party for local children

The Winkle Club began in 1900 when a group of Old Town Fishermen decided to raise enough money to give the children of under-privileged families in Hastings Old Town a Christmas Party. That tradition survives to the present day and in addition the Club is able to give support to numerous local good causes.”

Children joined in a procession from Winkle Island to The East Hastings Angling Club party venue. The procession was led by a local drumming group.

The children enjoyed entertainment and games as well as festive food before a visit to Santa’s Grotto to receive a ‘Goody-Bag’ from Santa himself.

They also enjoyed a ride on the miniature steam railway.

In addition to local residents, Winkle Club members have included Sir Winston Churchill, Lord Montgomery, Sir Norman Wisdom and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

Each Winkle Club member carries a winkle shell which they must produce when challenged to 'winkle up'. Failure to do so results in a fine which goes towards local charities. People can donate to the Winkle Club at the large winkle sculpture on Winkle Island, in Hastings Old Town, that was created by local sculptor Leigh Dyer.

Pictures by Roberts Photographic.