Town looks forward to sporting dividend

The gruelling road and sea race will be renamed the South Coast Classic Triathlon and be held on the seafront on September 6 and 7.

It is expected to be a massive boost to the town's economy, attracting 2,000 visitors.

Athletes will battle it out over the course of a 1,500m swim, 40km cycle ride and 10km run.

At a meeting of the Seaford Town Council community service committee on Thursday last week, members discussed the benefits it would bring.

Cllr Julian Peterson said: 'It is an incredibly exciting event which will bring, I am sure, a lot of kudos to the town.'

Three towns had been in the running for the event, said the Mayor, Cllr Jill Rosser. 'I think it is fantastic we have been chosen. There will be major benefits that will come to Seaford and the surrounding area.'

She added: 'To have such a prestigious sporting event in the town will raise the profile of sport in the area and encourage more youngsters and older people to take part in sporting activities and exercise.'

Cllr Les Whittle backed the event but was concerned about the increased litter dropped by thousands of visitors. He suggested the town should have talks with Lewes District Council to ensure there were plans for a swift clean-up .

Members also heard the event might be a money- spinner with professional caterers offering a percentage of their profits to council coffers.

Town clerk Len Fisher said the event would be 'tremendous boost' to the town's economy and he had written to every hotel and guest house in the Lewes district.

Cllr Rosemary Collict said it was shame the Abbots Lodge Motel had closed. 'I regret the motel is no longer open - it would have been an ideal place to offer to people.'

She also raised concern about September wet weather. 'I should hate Seaford to end up looking like Glastonbury after a particularly wet Bank Holiday weekend,' she added.

The triathlon will be split into four categories, Novice, Sprint, Classic and Relay.

For further information pick up an application form at the Seaford Town Council HQ in Broad Street or logon to www.southcoast-triathlon.co.uk