We hope farm gets back on its feet soon

In last week's Observer, we carried a letter from a supporter of the farm shop who wrote to us in a bid to inspire the town to rally round.

This was because he had heard that owners Roger Verity and Julie Naylor might not have the heart to pick up the pieces after such a devastating blaze.

Roger and Julie say they have received numerous phone calls and letters of support from family, friends, customers and other Bexhillians saddened that such a popular outlet for local produce could have been burned down in such a short space of time.

It must be a terrible blow for the owners to see a business they have worked so hard on collapse in one night thanks to fire.

Yet Roger and Julie are beginning to rally '“ in today's Observer (page three) they have said they are considering applying for planning permission to rebuild the barn and shop.

This is encouraging news, particularly in a time when there is great emphasis on local and ethical food shopping.

Good luck Roger and Julie, and let's hope the Middle Barn Farm shop is up and running soon.

Follow the bear

SPEAKING of ethical, if you have an item such as a sofa in reasonable condition you're thinking of taking to the tip, first take a look at page 28 of today's Observer.

Environmentally-conscious webmaster 'The Big Bear' has set up an online swap shop called Good News For Polar Bears, where people can exchange second-hand items for free.

Not only is this idea easy on the wallet, it's good for the planet as well.