Observer Comment: Your views could save The Bell

IT was with much sadness at the end of January when the landlord of The Bell pub in Old Town was forced to call time on his business.

Currently the historic 17th century building lies vacant, although it is still in the ownership of Enterprise Inns.

Despite assurances from Enterprise Inns, many in that close-knit part of Bexhill are still concerned about the future of the historic building, which holds a special place in their hearts.

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While Enterprise Inns and the Old Town Preservation Society are liaising as to The Bell’s future, another group of residents has pulled together an independent survey.

Keir and Glyn Dellar, Joy and Dan Doswell and Angela and John Atherton are currently canvassing opinion as to how the building could best be used.

Suggestions are a traditional pub, affordable family restaurant, coffee shop with wi-fi access, bed and breakfast, apartments and offices.

However it is more than likely that the result of the survey will be to somehow return The Bell to a public house, which was of course its original purpose.

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So if you care about the future of The Bell, keep an eye out for these survey forms and be sure to fill them in.

You never know - a strong response could result in The Bell opening sooner rather than later.

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