Turner's return

Turner, an 18th century East Hoathly shopkeeper who kept a diary of his daily life, often passed through Herstmonceux while keeping a secret rendezvous with one of his ex-servants at Ninfield.

Tonight (March 28), local man Mike Turner will present his play based on the fascinating diaries of Turner at Herstmonceux Village Hall. Tomorrow evening it will be shown at Chiddingly Village Hall.

Thomas Turner '“ Shopkeeper Extra-ordinary reflects the title character's personal writings from 1754 to 1765 and looks in great detail at his life and times. Turner's diaries reflect on national and local events and examine the minutiae of everyday living, including long and detailed descriptions of his meals.

He writes in fascinating detail about his problems as a shopkeeper with people wanting everything on credit and the difficulty of collecting debts.

When the play had its premiere in East Hoathly in September last year it was sold out and many local people asked for another opportunity to see the play.

The play employs some leading local actors (Derek Watts who has appeared in The Bill, Colin Hill who was in Gangs of New York and Alan G. Baker, a long-time London actor) working with local amateurs from Sussex towns and villages.

Tickets for the two performances from Caprice Hair Fashions, Gardner Street, Herstmon-ceux at 7 (5 concessions) or on 01273 472799.