Seafont vandalism 'getting worse'

A spate of vandalism has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

And alcohol-fuelled gangs have been spotted walking the promenade at night intimidating passers-by.

One trader claims he regularly sees discarded needles and broken bottles left at the Colonnade.

Police this week have vowed to "nip the problem in the bud."

They have arranged extra patrols and are asking parents to keep a watchful eye on their children.

Incidents have included yobs smashing windows and shutters at the Colonnade cafe, causing over 1,000 worth of damage.

A separate attack saw the back door of the cafe damaged in an attempt to rip-off the lock.

Smashed windows at the Sovereign Light Cafe cost over 300 to repair and windows were also broken at the De La Warr Pavilion.

One trader, who did not wish to be named, said: "There has always been a problem down here but it has certainly got worse.

"Sometimes the place is left covered in rubbish, glass and some weeks needles. It seems to be worse since they have lit the place (the seafront) up. Lights attract moths - well replace moths with yobs and you're pretty much there."

Commander of the Bexhill Neighbourhood Policing Team, Inspector Martin Mann, said: "The problem has been getting worse and we are aware of it.

"I think what hasn't helped is the start of the nice weather earlier this year. There is a real concern about the problems we have been having and we want to get this nipped in the bud before the summer really starts.

"We are doing what we can to change it by using extra resources. We have had extra staff out on Friday and Saturday nights."