Today saw the re-opening of our lovely pier, so badly damaged by fire 8 weeks ago. It was a great privilege to be asked to stand in for Cllr David Elkin, away at Conservative Conference, and then asked to say a few words to the invited guests gathered in the tea rooms.
Walking along the sidewalk, looking at close quarters the damage the fire has caused and seeing the traders shops buzzing with people, I was told by the Pier Management that more than 1000 people had come to be part of this huge occasion for our town. Over 650 were queueing at the beginning when we arrived to be part of this event and view the damage for themselves; I do hope they found their way into the tea rooms to sample some of the amazing croisants and home made sponge cakes on sale - absolutely delicious all washed down with a cup of "proper tea" from leaves not bags - well worth the visit but not so good for the calorie count!!
Tonight ATLANTIS is open for Freshers Week with hundreds of university students in town who we know will appreciate Eastbourne being "Open for Business" - we never closed.
So once more as a local Conservative Councillor for Upperton I thank all those who have made this day possible by their prompt and brave actions, the RNLI and Sussex Fire & Rescue Service as well as the Pier Team. Well done everyone.
