More than 100 volunteers braved challenging weather conditions to take part in a hugely successful Spring Tide Beach Clean at Pelham Beach on Sunday 1 February, proving that community spirit in Hastings is stronger than ever.
Organised by Ark Alexandra Academy, in collaboration with Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) and Hastings & St Leonards Clean Water Action Group (CWAG), the event marked the school’s first major community environmental action, and it could not have gone better.
Volunteers, including school staff, students, parents, and local residents, gathered at the Pelham Beach Lifeguard Hut for a safety briefing led by Colin from SAS before splitting into two large groups. One team worked towards the Harbour Arm, while the other headed in the direction of Hastings Pier. Working in pairs and small groups, participants spent an hour clearing litter from the shoreline before reconvening at the meeting point. All equipment, including litter pickers, gloves, and collection sacks, was provided by SAS and CWAG.
Despite persistent wind and rain at the start of the morning, which thankfully eased as the clean progressed, the dedication of volunteers never wavered. By the end of the event, approximately 80kg of debris had been removed from the beach.
The beach clean was also supported by a number of local figures and organisations, including the Mayor of Hastings, Becca Horn, Councillor Amanda Jobson, Emma Ramsden from Combe Valley Community Nature and Education.
Prizes were awarded by the Mayor for some of the most unusual finds of the day, first prize went to Jasper for his UWO – unidentified waxy object (!) and D.J. for their “Halloween finger” with aquarium tickets kindly sourced by Rebecca at CWAG.
