British Heart Foundation goes for bold approach

For the first time, they staged a craft fair '“ and filled the sports hall at Bexhill Youth and Community Centre as a result.

The morning's first buyers were coming in to browse as branch secretary Jacky Chrisp said: "We have got 24 stalls '“ and that's not including the British Heart Foundation stalls.

"We have never held a craft fair before but if it is successful we will do it again."

For those who appreciate the craftsmanship of others there was much to admire and to buy.

Ken Jempson, of Sidley, started off with a small lathe, gradually built up till he bought his present model and has amassed a full wood-making kit.

Now he trades as Ken's Crafts, specialising in hand-made wooden items from the hand-turned bowls and candlesticks he had on display to dolls houses and household items.

Kristina and Nick Ford, of Seaford, style themselves Squiggly In The Snug. Not only are they event organisers but accomplished artists in stained glass.

They had a full range of their work on display.

Bryan Bryant and his grandson were exhibiting a collection of Eddie Stobart models

There were framed county maps from the 1830s, fabric shopping bags and embroidered t-shirts.

From hand-made greetings cards to flamboyant hand-crafted waistcoats, there was something for everyone in the sports hall '“ plus tombola, cakes and refreshments in the general hall above.