VIDEO: Save Battle Fire Station march

Armed with loudspeakers, air horns and banners, the group made its feelings clear about East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service’s controversial plans, which will seriously damage fire cover in the area.

Led by local businessman Kevin Lawrence, firefighter Clive York and town mayor Richard Bye, the crowd wound its way down the High Street, stopping outside Battle Abbey before heading into Battle Memorial Hall for an emotionally-charged meeting.

The fate of the town’s fire station rests in the hands of the East Sussex Fire Authority.

All 18 members of the authority were invited to the meeting - but just three turned up on the night, much to the anger of protestors.

Gary Walsh, deputy chief fire officer for ESFRS, was also in attendance to field questions from the public.

Kevin, who organised the march with Helen Ashenheim, said: “Myself and Helen would like to thank everyone for attending the march and for the PCSO for closing the road so we could all march safely.”

* For reports on Monday night’s meeting, see this Friday’s Battle Observer.