As well as being the author of a recent book on the history of the Old Convent in East Grinstead, Kathryn is a leading expert on seaside heritage, culture and architecture.

She has written numerous books on the subject and is now taking the opportunity to look into the links between our town and the coast. The Sisters of St Margaret took girls from the orphanage on an annual seaside holiday but there were plenty of other trips and outings from the town. Anyone who chose Bexhill would feel very at home because buildings and street names there paid homage to the same landowning family, the Sackvilles.

Kathryn’s talk will also feature locally made provisions for a seaside picnic, the previous lives of Bluebell Railway carriages, bathing beauties competitions and even a bit of holiday camp fun.

Tickets £10 – To book www.swithun.org.uk or 01342 325026