The picture of the sandy beach is just the sort of information required in the fight against the closure by the port owners which could be used to convince the courts that it is a "village green".

One of many such views, probably! And what better way to spend a sunny summer's afternoon, than to be on that beach, just waiting for one of those oh so 'dangerous' waves from a steamer like the Londres pictured here. I much preferred the look of the Hope Inn when it was like this, before the 'conservatory' was added to the balcony.

Does anyone know/remember Sandra Maclean?

I can't imagine that the 'tramway' was in use in the first picture as there appear to be a couple of vehicles parked on the line.

Interesting to note that the cars are parked at the back of the hardstanding area, unlike today where (if the beach were open) they'd park up against the railings. Presumebaly we are more careless these days and would fall on to the beach frequently if it weren't for the railings.... or did people just bounce easier in the 50's?

I would say that people had a gift in  days gone by, which they don't seem to have today, it's called common sense!

Yes, Sandra Maclean. Thin ginger girl went to Southdown, with her in Mrs Axford's class,

I remember the Ice Cream Kiosk was manned by Dick Mussel. We used to gather there on a Sunday afternoon and listen to Alan Freemans "Pick of the Pops". Is my memory faulty or was the sun always shining.