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EDITOR’S WELCOME
IT has been another eventful year for Bexhill News, as we rapidly approach the festive season, so good tidings to all of our readers as we look forward to Christmas dinner with all the trimmings. We should all remember that it is the season of goodwill and the time is ripe to reflect on all that has happened in 2023, both internationally and domestically. Our town has once again provided plenty of news and all of us at Bexhill News are grateful for all of you who have contributed to making us the go-to source for LOCAL news. Without you, we would not be able to report on the issues that either concern or inspire you, and we are absolutely committed to reporting on a variety of topics which matter to residents living in Bexhill, Little Common, Sidley, plus the surrounding areas. This current issue is once again packed with news, views and entertainment which we are confident makes for a cracking read. The year ahead promises to be another eventful one, but hopefully, there will be far more good news than bad. Bexhill is a thriving and diverse community with so much to offer, even in the depths of winter, and we will continue to reflect that to the best of our ability. Despite the recent adverse weather and the nights closing in, there is always a warm and cosy glow as Christmas approaches and that is how it should be. It is the perfect opportunity to spend time with family, friends and other loved ones, exchange gifts and generally have a great time. So on that basis, all at Bexhill News raise a glass to you, our loyal readers and advertisers, and say “Happy Christmas and New Year”. May it bring you joy, peace and happiness. Kim Mayo, Editor
DECEMBER 2023
For the latest local news, visit: www.Bexhill.News
COUNCILLOR’S CONCERN OVER COST OF LIVING CRISIS R OTHER District councillor, Sam Coleman, has voiced his concerns over the cost of living crisis which is leaving many families struggling to pay their bills. Labour councillor Mr Coleman, who represents the Bexhill Sidley ward, says much more support is needed for those who are finding it difficult to make ends meet. He said: “I became a councillor at the age of 22 because I saw the rapidly increasing poverty in my community. “With 13 years of austerity, low growth and lack of well-paid jobs locally, many have been struggling financially for some time now. “Inflation, Brexit pressures and the cost of living crisis have only added to that. Not just for those out of work, but for many in full-time employment and the self-employed too. “Recent data from the Child Poverty Action Group suggests that three out of ten children in Rother are living in poverty. Mr Coleman wants to see action to combat poverty being implemented as soon as possible. He added: “At Rother District Council we have
been looking at how we can better support those on low income and those living in poverty. “We have implemented an anti-poverty strategy with local strategic partners, adding the socioeconomic duty into our policy procedures. We are also consulting on removing the cap on the council tax reduction scheme. “I have been extremely proud to lead on many of these initiatives. However, they are by no means a solution to the problem. “Rother, like most local authorities, faces huge financial challenges. For example, the cost of temporary accommodation used to house the homeless has skyrocketed in recent months and we have had to look at unpalatable cuts to keep our core services afloat. “We desperately need central government to act on the cost of living crisis. This winter many families will be finding it tougher than ever before to enjoy the Christmas season. “Despite the best efforts of councils, charities and good samaritans, I fear that without government intervention, people will yet again have to choose between heating and eating.
Labour councillor, Sam Coleman
“In a country as wealthy as ours, no child should go hungry nor should any pensioner freeze. If you or anyone you know is struggling over Christmas please reach out to local charities like Citizens’ Advice, Warming Up the Homeless or your local foodbank as well as your local councillors because there is help out there.”
READ ME, SHARE ME, THEN RECYCLE ME! Bexhill News is a publication by Regional Media Group Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales number: 13746177. We have taken care to ensure that the information in this newspaper is correct. Neither the publisher, nor contributors can take responsibility for loss or damage resulting from errors or omissions. Bexhill News does not endorse the accuracy of the advertisements or the quality of the products/services being advertised. Information provided by businesses and community organisations are provided directly by their own representatives; please direct any queries or comments regarding content directly to the organisation. Any opinion or views expressed within this publication are solely those of the author. © 2023: No part of this newspaper may be reproduced in part or whole without express permission of the editor.
Steve Hall is a local cartoonist drawing inspiration from Bexhill and the sea. His cards, books and other items can be found in local independents and the Bexhill museum shop. He can be contacted at steve54.hall@gmail.com.
CONTACT US | Telephone: 01424 762128 | Group Editor: Paul Gibson, editor@Bexhill.News | Editor: Kim Mayo, kim@Bexhill.News Features: Viktoria Cowley, viktoria@Bexhill.News | Publication production: Dean Cook
