Emily Elliott

A humorous account of a journalist hosting her parents in Brighton during a heatwave highlights their impressions of the city. They disliked seagulls, constant emergency sirens and the overwhelming heat, but enjoyed seaside activities, Saltdean Lido, Rottingdean’s breeze, Brighton’s street art, shaded resting spots, efficient buses, coastal walks and repeated meals at their favorite cafes. Despite clinging to their northern pride, the visit ultimately won them over to Brighton’s charm.

Shoreham Port is in early discussions with Chichester College Group about establishing a marine college on newly acquired land near Southwick Beach. A feasibility study will assess the proposal, with no design or planning work started. The port states beach access will remain unchanged and community amenities such as chalets, parking and a café are also being considered.

Residents in Eastbourne’s Devonshire area are opposing a retrospective planning application to formalise an HMO at 14 Bourne Street, citing ongoing antisocial behaviour, overcrowding and pressure on local services. Councillors Stephen Holt and Christina Ewbank have also objected, arguing the area already suffers from an over‑concentration of HMOs, now restricted under an Article 4 Direction. The application by Barrington Riley Ltd, prepared by Bree Prenton Property Consultants, claims the proposal would improve living conditions and contribute to the town’s housing mix.

A humorous personal account describes overcoming a lifelong aversion to wax during a visit to Madame Tussauds in London, highlighting bottomless prosecco, interactions with staff, a tour of the serial killer exhibit, a behind-the-scenes look at sculptors at work and the eclectic mix of historical and celebrity figures that defines the attraction.

A large dead snake discovered in the Mayfield Parish Church churchyard prompted concern from a local woman who photographed it emerging from a flower pot hole. Social media users speculated about the species until the Sussex Wildlife Trust confirmed it was a harmless grass snake.

A man died in a collision between a lorry and a motorcycle at the Boship Roundabout in Hailsham. Sussex Police confirmed the 53-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene, notified his next of kin and kept road closures in place during the emergency response. No arrests have been made.

A man from Bromley was arrested after a CCTV camera on Newhaven’s closed West Beach was shot with an air rifle, following recent break-ins and damage to beach gates and a National Coastwatch Institute camera. Sussex Police continue their investigation and are working with the port authority and local council to prevent further incidents, as public use of the privately owned and closed beach continues despite restrictions.

A suspected arson attack destroyed two caravans in St Leonards-on-Sea, leaving one man homeless and causing damage to nearby beach huts and a car. A 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life and released on bail. Laura-Louise Cooper launched a fundraiser to help her ex-partner recover essential belongings and secure temporary accommodation. Police are appealing for witnesses and information.

A fatal collision near Beachy Head that killed a 17‑year‑old boy prompted Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde to call for urgent road safety measures. Three others were seriously injured in the crash involving two cars, and police appealed for witnesses and footage. Babarinde highlighted a long‑standing pattern of dangerous driving in the South Downs area and criticised local authorities for insufficient action, urging a coordinated response. He supported existing initiatives but pressed for a comprehensive, long‑term plan and acknowledged ongoing community efforts, including a petition led by campaigner Holly Foster.

Ground investigations have begun along a 15km stretch between Eastbourne and Bexhill as part of a £100 million coastal defence scheme. The work, running through mid‑2026, will support the design of new flood defences and beach improvements that continue through the next decade. Drilling, sampling and excavations will assess sediment, groyne condition, contaminants and ground stability. Temporary disruption is expected, though beaches and businesses remain open. Responsibility for the Eastbourne section is expected to transfer to the Environment Agency in 2027.

A 54-year-old man was found unresponsive in St James's Avenue in Brighton shortly before 7am on June 27 and was declared dead at the scene despite paramedic treatment. Sussex Police confirmed that next of kin have been informed, a coroner’s report will be prepared, and the death is not considered suspicious.

Emergency crews responded to a late-night crash on Rock Road in Washington, West Sussex, where a car overturned after hitting a telegraph pole. Firefighters rescued one person from the vehicle, and paramedics attended the scene before crews left just after 2am. Authorities confirmed they are not seeking further information.