Olympic Torch: 6.45pm - Pevensey Bay crowds wowed
Paul Hicks, pictured second from left, with friends in Pevensey Bay.
EXCITED crowds lined the streets of Pevensey Bay earlier today (Tuesday) as the Olympic Torch was carried through the village.
Children blew penny whistles and waved flags as friends and families - many of three generations - celebrated the momentous event.
Among them was Cisela Eastrom Wildes who said, “I feel very special about this. My grandfather was once the president of the International Olympic Games.”
As the sun shone for the event, the smell of hot dogs and burgers lingered in the air, and people made the most of the good weather by tucking into ice creams.
Jane Pop, who was there with partner Dave Harris, was one of them. She said, “I think it’s fantastic. I think the support and turnout from everybody speaks volumes.
“I think it’s one of those days people feel quite proud to be British. And the sun is shining.”
On the stretch into Pevensey Bay Tristan Stephens carried the torch and handed it over to Derek Mepham at the entrance to the village. He ran the stretch before Hailsham resident Vicki Lamberton had her moment in the spotlight.
She has raised money for different charities over the years.
The 21-year-old was cheered on by pub-goers and local residents before the torch was handed over to Sara Baaken.
Magdalena Biglou, who was among the crowds with her nine-week-old son Jozef, said, “It was quite impressive, it’s one of those things you will only see once in a lifetime.
“There was a lot of community spirit.”
Cheryl and Keith Joy were also out in the sunshine. Mrs Joy, from Stone Cross, said, “I think it was brilliant, it was a lovely atmosphere. There was kids all around, dogs and grown-ups.”
Paul Hicks, who was enjoying a drink at the Beach Tavern with a group of friends, said, “I think it was well organised and went smoothly with the way they shut off the roads. It was really good.”
Pal Nige Pearce added, “The sun was out which was great. There was a very good turnout and it was well organised.”
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Weather for Eastbourne
Sunday 19 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 9 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Heavy rain
Temperature: 11 C to 15 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
Wind direction: North west
