Whispering Smith Column Published in the Littlehampton Gazette March 7th 2016

THE recently increased parking charges could have a very detrimental effect on the usage of our popular Windmill Cinema and Theatre facility. Visiting the cinema during the day time has become a regular pastime for the retired, the elderly and for families who wish to enjoy the many excellent matinee children’s feature films. The increase will now make an afternoons parking fee of £3.00 added to the price of your visit. This is allowing for the fact that you would need at least three hours for the screening. A reader has written to Cllr Denby pointing this out and asking for his support but, as of this time, he has not responded. The answer to the problem is a fairly simple one if the ADC really want this facility to survive. When purchasing a cinema ticket a free or reduced fee parking ticket for the duration of the performance could also be issued at the box office or, even simpler, the cinema ticket itself could be validated for display in the vehicle. It could not be easier really. ADC’s eventual response to this suggestion will spotlight their intention of supporting the Windmill and doing all that it can to make it a continued success. Or, of course, they could ignore it and use it as yet another excuse to close facility down and redevelop the site. We will have to wait and see but, my fellow picture-goers, be prepared to march again…

VERY sad to learn of the passing of Littlehampton’s Mr Bonfire, Basil Cooper. Bas was closely associated with our superb Bonfire Society and was, for many years, its treasurer and leading light. From the thousands of spectators, the participants and the worthy recipients of the charity monies raised over the years and for many wonderful Saturday evenings, a huge thank you, Mr Cooper. Sir, you will be missed and this year’s bonfire will not burn so brightly without you.