Labour supporters brave the chill for Bexhill social

The cold weather did not stop the Bexhill and Battle Labour Party holding its annual social and fund-raising event in Bexhill.
Labour supporters enjoying the annual social at The Chilli Tree. Photo courtesy of Judith MeredithLabour supporters enjoying the annual social at The Chilli Tree. Photo courtesy of Judith Meredith
Labour supporters enjoying the annual social at The Chilli Tree. Photo courtesy of Judith Meredith

The guest speaker for the evening at The Chilli Tree on Saturday, February 6, was Peter Chowney.

Mr Chowney took over as Hastings Borough Council leader following the death of Jeremy Birch.

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Bexhill mayor Maurice Watson said: “It was good to see the Labour Party members getting together to discuss the future needs of the country.

“It was interesting to hear Peter’s and others’ points of view.

“There is a steep hill to climb and the enthusiasm to climb it is strong.”

Mr Chowney spoke about well-run councils, and the difference between Conservative and Labour administrations.

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He said efficient Tory authorities seek to provide good basic services for their population, but look to minimise council involvement in people’s lives.

Good Labour councils, on the other hand, try to use community involvement and intervention to positively benefit the outcomes for all people, particularly for the disadvantaged and vulnerable.

A memorable example of positive intervention in Hastings, not found in other councils, is the highly successful, award-winning Grotbuster scheme.

The project has seen around 700 properties being refurbished and many empty properties have been brought back into the housing market.

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Also, when Labour regained control in Hastings, they took action to save the pier, including serving legal papers in Panama, to enable compulsory purchase.

Russell Meredith said: “It shows what can be done for the quality of life when councillors have a positive attitude to community.”

The Bexhill Branch Labour Party wish to thank Salah Uddin and his staff at The Chilli Tree for the wonderful cuisine and hospitality, and Paul Courtel, Margaret Tippin, and Shirley McDonald for making the evening possible.

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