Not long now
You have just over a week to put yourself forward to be a Rye town councillor. The vacancy was caused by the resignation of Cllr Rebekah Gilbert and people interested in standing for the council need to have their application in by 11:59pm on Monday, August 18. You can read full details here.
The new councillor will be chosen at a special meeting of Rye Town Council on Monday, September 15. If you are thinking of standing email info@ryenews.org.uk as we’re keen to feature all candidates in coming weeks.
Remembering a different conflict
Next Friday, August 15 marks the 80th anniversary of VJ Day – Victory over Japan Day. In Rye there will be a ceremony outside the town hall in the Buttermarket starting at 1pm.
After a cry from town crier Paul Goring and words from the mayor, Andy Stuart the event moves to the war memorial in St Mary’s churchyard for a wreath-laying ceremony led by Colonel Anthony Kimber. There will also be extracts from the diary of John Ryan, the Rye animator who served in the Far East on VJ Day, read by Isabel Ryan.
Time to talk
Worries about delays to repairs to housing on Tilling Green are likely to dominate a meeting for residents next week. It will take place at the community centre between 1pm and 4pm on Tuesday, August 12 and has been organised by the landlords, Southern Housing.
Confirmed candidate
Katy Bourne, the Sussex police and crime commissioner, has been selected as the Conservative candidate in next year’s election for Sussex mayor, beating former Hastings and Rye MP Sally-Ann Hart.
Elections for the new role, which includes powers over policing, transport and development, are due to take place in May 2026.
Candidates from the other political parties have yet to be chosen.
Lots to see and do
This Saturday, August 9 is the first Rye Pirates and Smugglers Day, with the organisers hoping it will be an annual event in the town’s calendar. The day starts in the Gun Garden at 10am where a parade around town begins and includes the official opening at the town hall at 10:25am.
There’s more to see and do in the Rye News What’s On section, which includes Rye Art Gallery’s summer sale this weekend.
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Stuart Harland , Anthony Kimber , Nick Forman , Katy Bourne , Rye Art Gallery .