Putting on the ritz Roaring 20s spectacular

Thousands flocked to the town and many got into the spirit of the occasion, with dames dolled up in shimmering frocks, beads and feathers, and daddies decked out in suits, flat caps and fedoras.

Organiser Roger Crouch, said he was delighted that, despite the previous night’s storms, the event was anything but a washout. He said: “Never did I think as we were battling to save the marquee over the bar in the storm that hit Friday evening that we would have a day as we did on Saturday. Two chaps came over from the flats across the road to help and that just summed up the spirit of the event.

“The feedback on the day has been amazing and it was terrific to see every age group having a great time.

“Thousands turned out for the event creating a lovely atmosphere and a lot of people had dressed up for the occasion.”

Highlights of the day included spectacular vintage cars, Charleston dancers, a mock raid on local cafe, The Little British Tea Shop, a musical procession by the Royal Navy Marching Band, a vintage funfair, donkey and train rides, all topped off with spectacular air displays and daredevil wing walkers who delighted the crowds with a stunning airborne performance along Bexhill seafront.

Organiser of the Bexhill Festival of Music, Tony Mansi, said he was so enthralled by all there was to see and do that he stayed for most of the day. “It was absolutely amazing! The dancing and gymnastics were brilliant - they were so full of energy.

“I hope this will now be an annual event for Bexhill.”

Hastings’ residents Stephen and Andrew Clifton said the day really was a swell take on the 1920s. “There was too much to take in! The stunts were so realistic and it perfectly summed up the 1920s atmosphere. It was a fantastic event.”

Choclatier Liz, who had a stall at the event, said: “It was absolutely fantastic. So many people got into the spirit of the occasion with amazing costumes. I hope it will held again next year.”

Roger said he was delighted the day turned out to be the real McCoy: “I was very proud of Bexhill and the community on Saturday for embracing this event with such enthusiasm and I am very pleased it lived up to expectations befitting such a great town.”