Quirky and quaint - but needs more

That's the overall result of a survey in the Bexhill Guide 2009 and returned by post by respondents asked to give their own views in their own words.

The result is a frank and fascinating view of how Bexhill is seen by people who don't live here and and gives strong indication of how their experience could be improved.

A good number praised highly the De La Warr Pavilion, free parking in some areas, and commented the town was quiet, unusual, quirky and different.

A visitor from Blackheath said: "You can't improve on perfection," while one from Burgess Hill described it as a "nice destination for a day trip".

On the other hand the town centre is criticised as shabby, in need of hotels, restaurants, live music, concerts, plays and shows, and more for children to do.

Sue Spice of Bexhill Chamber of Commerce said this was an unbiased outsider's view, and added: "I think it is good to see ourselves as others see us.

"This is the first survey of it's kind that was not carried out face to face, so their responses could not be influenced in any way.

"Respondents had to take the time to complete the form and return it through the post.

"They were asked for their own views in their own words, hence why there are so many different comments."

Of the 82 people who took part, seven visited Bexhill only to look around the DLWP, and 56 gave it their highest score.

What do you think of the visitor survey? Do you agree that we have a shabby town centre? Leave your comments below.