Wet for garden party

However, the rain did not dampen anyone's spirits as. Not only were delicious fresh strawberry cream teas available but Sandra has a beautiful natural wild woodland garden in Turkey Road which is a sight to behold no matter what the climate.

Sandra said: "The money raised today (more than 60) is for Bexhill in Bloom. We are hoping to get some planters to place around the town to help brighten it up."

Sandra has been involved with the running of the Bexhill in Bloom competition since 1993 and actively encourages people in the town to enter and, although you need to have a front garden that can be seen from the road there are other categories if you don't have one.

The closing date for the competition is June 30 with the judging taking place during carnival week on July 23. Entry forms can be collected from the Bexhill Observer offices in Sackville Road.

In addition there is also the South and South East In Bloom competition which will be judged on July 6 and, Sandra explained that because of the drought situation the judges will be looking for more permanent planting.

At the party was Town Mayor Eric Armstrong and wife Mayoress Jeanette, along with Bexhill in Bloom Princess Jessica Heyes.

Bexhill Community Partnership helped on the day.

Mr Armstrong said: "Even though its been a bit damp today it's wonderful to see Sandra's garden in reality. Bexhill in Bloom has really shown a brighter face for our town so that if everybody entered into it in even just a small way it would look even better than it does at the moment."