It was better back then

IN reply to the letter from John McNaughton (Observer, July 8) I couldn't believe what I was reading when he said that the De La Warr Pavilion is now better than when he worked there in the late 1970s.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Jul 2011, 09:00 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 20:38 BST

He must have been working with his eyes closed.

In the past, the Pavilion was always buzzing with events. There was a lovely restaurant, cafeteria and bar (which was always busy and stated open until 11pm).

There were lots of shows and functions: weddings - sometimes two a week; Glyndebourne Opera weekend; the Friday Night is Music Night programme was aired on BBC radio from the DLWP; police and mayors’ balls, coaches booked for lunches and teas; art society; theatre group; dancing on the terrace; bands on Sundays -- I could go on.

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Nearly everything was held at the Pavilion and the people of Bexhill loved it. Now, they won’t even let the hymn-singing take place there for half-an-hour a week.

It’s been a disappointment for the local people, and only people like Mr McNaughton and people outside the area think it’s wonderful.

It was a marvellous place to visit in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. I should know because I was working there for all those years!

Incidentally, I have yet to meet one person who likes the new promenade, so I’m afraid Mr McNaughton, I personally think you are in the minority. I think Jackie Bialeska does speak for the majority of people in Bexhill.

P SPRAY

De La Warr Parade

Bexhill-on-Sea

Related topics:De La Warr PavilionObserverBexhillBBC