Footbridge Gallery
New gallery launch - 21st February

Good morning friends. What a wonderful day we had yesterday. There were 6 of us in the morning litter picking and 8 in the afternoon at the De La Warr Pavilion, which swelled to 9 afterwards at the footbridge.
We had a blessed time in the morning with lots of people saying hello and thanking us. One man crossed over the road just to tell us what a good job we were doing. Deborah met up with a man, Chris, who she has seen a few times, and talked with and prayed for him - he had lost a friend yesterday.

Alex and Robert were inviting lots of people to come to church. One person from Beulah Church spoke of the spiritual warfare we are in - too true. I had an opportunity to chat with a couple, Stephen and Lynn, sat on a bench. We put the world to rights and then he told me about his faith as a pagan, and I then told him about my faith in Jesus. First invite to a 321 Course given out on a Saturday morning. Please pray for all of these people, named and unnamed.

In the afternoon it was the official opening of the new Footbridge Gallery, 3.0. 7 of us went to help clean the displays on Wednesday ready for the new artwork to be installed. Yesterday, 6 of us mingled with officials and the public at the De La Warr with our HiVis on. During the speeches, we not only got two mentions of thanks for our help on Wednesday, but one of them was followed by a round of applause. The name of Jesus was spoken over 150 people. What a privilege!

After that, we went for the ribbon cutting at the footbridge. Again people went out of their way to thank us. That is not the reason we helped on Wednesday, we did it to help out a friend in need. However, it was a major PR coup, we were recognized by many and Jesus' name was spoken over the people of our town. We are firmly established in Bexhill, and we are not going away. While there are still souls to be saved, we will continue to lift the name of Jesus high over Bexhill and beyond, as Jesus really does love our towns.

Jesus Loves Our Towns
Curryfest 2026 - 14th February

We had a marvellous time on Saturday, 14th February, at our annual Curryfest meeting. This started as a group of friends getting together to celebrate their birthdays, and has grown into a Jesus Loves Bexhill event, and is now including people from other groups as well.

We had 25 people in all, including Mary and Roger from Jesus Loves Sidley, Howard and Ed from Jesus Loves St Leonards, and Glynn and Philippa from Jesus Loves East Grinstead. Glynn also gave a 10 minute talk encouraging us all in the work we are doing for the Kingdom of God, and to continue onwards. Andrew also gave a short share about the 321 Course, which we are hoping to offer to people who are wanting to know more about Christianity.

It was an excellent time to catch up with friends, meet new friends, and just relax in the warm environment of fellowship. It was a great opportunity for the obligatory group photo too.

Enormous thanks go to Geoff and June for not only hosting the event, but cooking most of the food, which was delicious. Thanks also go to all those who provided puddings, and who helped with welcoming, serving drinks and food, and speaking. Gratitude also to Margaret for taking photos.

To listen to Glynn's message at the Curryfest please click here:

Christmas Lights Up - November 2025

Today a small group of us met up and we went out to lift up the name of Jesus. The streets being relatively clean made it harder for us to litter pick, but gave more opportunities for eye contact, and we felt reassured that the town is keeping clean.

For the first few hours, the locals in town were not very engaging and it was hard to get smiles or strike up conversations. Nevertheless Geoff and I had a good chat with Ann from the Bexhill Evangelical Book Store, and we were able to get photos with the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor (and the Deputy’s son) with Ann. The Mayor mentioned that he spoke to Jesus Loves Sidley at their lights event the day before; they, like us are doing a good job.

Homely Treatz was busier than usual, and meeting up for a break enabled us to have a great time of fellowship, and to encourage and support each other. Off we went again, when it was much busier, and we started to get smiles and waves from Bexhillians and visitors!

As the evening went on there were much more ‘thank yous’ and people were actively asking for help in disposing of their rubbish. A man with a dog and bike congratulated Alex and Deborah and claimed we were doing the work of the council but we explained that we were happy to volunteer and do our bit.

Deborah had a good conversation with a volunteer Traffic Marshall, who said that he doesn’t celebrate Christmas as his wife died some 20 years ago at Christmas time. Deborah said that she would pray for him and when he was seen again later he was given two testimony leaflets to read and reflect on.

As we headed for home, there were plenty of thanks and congratulations, and even Brian from the Bexhill Lions - the organiser of the event - was very pleased with our presence and our work. He said ‘well done’ to us, and I replied it was an honour to be a part of the event.

Geoff had another meeting with a chap who he had first witnessed to outside the Conquest Hospital when a couple of car loads of us went over to clean up their car parks a number of years ago. This man went to great lengths to share that he had applied for a job litter picking, and asked about training, only to be told that you just pick it up as you go along! A few years later he met Jane in Bexhill, and told her the same story, tonight he did it again with Geoff, who explained that he had told us that story now three times, has he not got any other jokes!!! They had a great chat resulting in him asking for Geoff’s telephone number because he wants to meet up with him for coffee.

Overall, a positive experience, and a great encouragement.

Litter Picking - November 2025

As so often happens on litter picking days, and we are sure was an answer to prayer, a lovely calm sunny morning on Bexhill sea front defied the rainy weather forecast!

Geoff’s best interaction was with a man who stopped outside the Bandstand before the team even went off out. Anne was chatting with him about his dog which was recovering from surgery to remove a large mass from her abdomen. The man was interested in joining us in our cleaning up efforts, but when he noticed our tabards with the logos, he said, “Oh you’re religious! There’s too much politics in religion for me”. Geoff reassured him that we are not ‘religious’ but that we love Jesus, to which he replied that he also loves Jesus and always has done!

It was agreed that Bexhill has never been so clean, so not much litter but plenty of favour, for example Mike being given a free hot chocolate in the park, along with much appreciation of our work. He felt encouraged by his time out and about.

Jane, Anne & Robert met Caz, whose ‘adopted’ dog is not at all well. They prayed for Caz to have peace in whatever decision is made by the vet and she left them seeming much happier, having been reminded how much God loves her and the dog.

Andrew met a lady called Joy and her son David, both Christians from Gateway fellowship in Eastbourne, who are very interested in litter picking, David particularly. He encouraged them to come along and join with us if they want to. A very encouraging conversation.

Alex came across a fire brigade truck on a rescue mission just outside the partk. He had felt impressed to bring with some verses from James Chapter 1, so at that point he stopped and read them out. On leaving the park they met a man and started chatting with him, leading to a long conversation, in which he told them he had at one point had a pack of dogs set on him. He also said that he had been offered free training to be a Hindu priest, and to teach yoga, in the middle of which he realised that he could not teach this as he didn’t believe it. Andrew was asking him questions such as “Do you know where you’re going when you die?”. He replied that he didn’t know. They discussed evolution, with some evidence against it presented. Before leaving the litter pickers, the man seemed grateful and as he left shook their hands and smiled. They trusted that seeds had been sown, gave him a testimony leaflet and encouraged him to follow the 321 course, to which his wife, who was also there, said that he is the type of person who will do so.

Andrew encouraged all litter pickers to bring a scripture with them – to read out over our town before going out.

Deborah, who wasn’t present, had sent everyone a word on Whatsapp. She felt that they would meet someone who needed reassurance about something. This could be applied to several people including Caz.
Jane noticed many people just observing the litter pickers. A Christian saw the logo on Robert’s back and called out ‘Jesus loves you’.

The prayer team prayed for many aspects of the team’s going around the town, with some specifics as follows:
Deborah’s word about reassurance for someone.
The man outside the Bandstand at the beginning.
People who have walked with Jesus/gone to church in the past and stopped – to be drawn back.
The team also spent a short time all praying in the Spirit (in tongues) together, after which a picture was shared of something flowing through the streets of Bexhill centre, at the same time like water and like fire.
Jenny remembered a previous picture she had received in prayer, about dappled light shining through trees, which led us into praying for light to be spread through the litter pickers.

Litter Picking - Autumn 2025

In spite of a damp and blustery morning, it was very encouraging that nine litter-pickers turned up outside the Bandstand ready for new adventures. A number of others would have taken part but were unable to go out for various reasons.

Andrew met a man named Tony who was sitting on the sea front reading a book called The Witches. They talked about our reason for being out picking up litter and Tony’s comment was that Christianity has good things and bad things. Andrew agreed but told him that God doesn’t change and his love for Tony doesn’t change; he left him with a testimony leaflet and silently prayed that he would read it.

Geoff expressed a special thanks to Jamie, who has been collecting litter more or less every day for over six years along Bexhill sea front, walking 15 miles a day. He had recently come across an area near the Marina (Channel View) that was covered with stones, so he went to the hardware shop, bought a broom and then spent two hours removing the stones from the prom.

Alex and Malcolm were in Magdalen Road where one lady approached them, praising them for what they were doing. On talking with her they discovered she lives in St Leonards and does attend a church there, so they encouraged her to join with the Jesus Loves St Leonards litter-picking team. They also met Leonard, who doesn’t attend any church right now so, having encouraged him to go to King’s Church Bexhill the next morning, they had the privilege of praying for him and assuring him that God loves him.

Malcolm went to where the HOTS (Healing on the Streets) team were in Devonshire Square and was able to pray for a young lady called Janet who had a dislocated shoulder which she couldn’t move at all, but she didn’t want to have surgery for it.

Geoff and Jamie went to the Marina and, finding that the door of the Grill House was open, popped their heads in and spoke with Bogdan and Anna, the owners. Bogdan was scheduled to have a hernia operation the following Thursday at the Conquest Hospital and the restaurant will be closed for a couple of weeks while he recovers. In Western Road, they met Alan, who was asking why all the litter-pickers were out (he thought there must be something special going on). They explained who they were and why they do the litter-picking and gave him some testimony leaflets. Geoff is hoping Alan will make contact so they can meet for coffee.

Meanwhile, the four members of the prayer team who met together received a sense of excitement about the unseen work that God is doing in the lives of people in Bexhill, recognising that He is always at work, not just for a couple of hours once a fortnight. This was accompanied by a picture of a road works sign, the kind that says ‘Men at work’, but this one said ‘God at work’. In the words of the song, ‘Even when we don’t see it you’re working’ and ‘You never stop, You never stop working’.

Litter Picking - September 2025

With good weather and with a crowd-drawing event taking place in Bexhill, there were a good number of people out and about. The litter-picking team went out to witness to the people of the town through what they do (many people, as always, expressing their thanks) and through the name of Jesus being on their tabards, and some had opportunities to speak with people. The litter-picking opens the way for conversations with those who don’t know Jesus, and also provides good times of fellowship between team members.

Through the team, a man named Colin was encouraged to come to Jesus; a lady called Sandy received a blessing; and an atheist with stage 4 cancer was told that Jesus loves him, causing his face to light up. He was invited to church. .

A nurse called Cheryl said she had been through many traumatic things in her profession and could not believe that God cares about people; sadly, she was resistant to the message of Jesus’ love. The team members had a good talk with her anyway. .

There was a Buddhist nun, who spoke in a very friendly and supportive manner. .

Back at the Bandstand (which we had booked from 10.00am–2.00pm), the prayer team had a good morning. One felt that anxious people would be helped. There was prayer for fresh encounters with people who had met team members before; also that there would be seeds falling into good soil. .

Litter Picking - August 2025

August has been a very busy month of lifting up the name of Jesus over Bexhill at our normal litter-picking day at the beginning of the month, at Bexhill Day in the middle of the month, and at the Bexhill 100 Classic and Custom Car Show at the end of the month, the latter two being all-day events allowing us to have our gazebo on display.
On the 2nd August, our normal litter-picking day, we had booked the bandstand for the morning but on arrival found it was not available to us due to a miscommunication. As always, the team went out into the town and along the promenade, sowing seeds and being a witness of Jesus’ love for the people of the town.

Bexhill Day This event took place on the promenade, which is always exciting, even though a strong breeze off the sea often gives us a challenge ensuring that the gazebo doesn’t take off in the wind. Thankfully, said gazebo was locked in place, ready for even hurricane-force winds, and it remained throughout the day, even though we subsequently heard that someone else’s gazebo ended up half way up a lamppost! So, whilst it was a bit blustery, we had a rewarding day sharing Jesus with lots of people and explaining why we pick up litter.
Someone wanted to know why Jesus loves Bexhill, which resulted in a fruitful conversation. Another asked what is the connection between Jesus and litter-picking, our answer being that the Bible says that faith without deeds is dead, and as believers good works should accompany our faith, and that we are helping to show that God cares about the people of Bexhill and wants them to enjoy a clean, litter-free town.
A number of copies of Andrew’s new book were given away, parents being encouraged to help their children with the online quiz and to provide feedback if possible. One particular lady was delighted to receive a book so that she could read it to her grandchild. She had been told by one of us that ‘you couldn’t possibly be old enough to have grandchildren, but would you like a copy of this book anyway?’ a good opening, obviously well received and leading to friendly conversation.
Visitors to the gazebo included our mayor, our MP, Keiran Mullen, and various other people who wanted to show their appreciation for what we do. The MP admired our photo display and asked for one of him to be taken along with us in front of the gazebo.
One unusual highlight of the day was the dramatic low flypast of a Lancaster Bomber, but all in all, we are so thankful for and encouraged by the positive opportunity to be showing the Name and the love of Jesus to the people of our town.

Bexhill 100 Classic & Custom Car Show This was clearly a good day from the start. Upon our arrival at the gate, the stewards, on seeing our tabards, said in a friendly way, “Oh it’s Jesus, Jesus is here, let them through”. It’s true, we carry His presence wherever we go, so when we arrive, Jesus does too!!
It was an early start (8.45) as we had to erect our stand well before the opening at 10.00. We’re so grateful to Anne who was already there erecting the gazebo, with Mike and David. It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day from start to finish, what a blessing!’
We had many chats with people around the field as well as many visitors to the gazebo. Some were interested in starting a ‘Jesus Loves …’ group in their own towns, including people from Eastbourne, and someone from Calvary Church, Hastings. One man wanted to know why Jesus loves Bexhill when it’s so near Hastings!! His question resulted in a conversation about the love of Jesus.
There were great opportunities to tell people of God’s love for them and a good number of testimony tracts were given out. Even in chatting with people about the cars on show and other aspects of the event, it was clear that many are quite happy to be talking with us in spite of our bold tabards. One remark from a team member was that we are like part of the scenery, that people expect us to be there and they greatly appreciate what we do.
It was also great to welcome Christians from various churches and other towns into the gazebo for some shade and fellowship.
The Treasurer of Bexhill 100 turned up with a £100 donation, along with profuse apologies that they hadn’t donated before. We expressed our thanks, saying that it’s not about the money but we are so grateful that we are appreciated.
Apparently, there were over 20,000 visitors to the event. What an encouragement that so many would hopefully have seen our prominent whole page notice in the programme! Our gazebo itself was admired by stallholders, and one in particular wanted to upgrade their stand to something like ours.
We left the Polegrove looking spotless, much cleaner than when we arrived, our work being much appreciated by the organisers, and they were very kindly full of praise on their own Facebook page. Also, the Chairman & others have said how much good we do for the town.

Special thanks to:
Anne and the set up and packdown team,
Romeo for being available and helping;
Jane, Geoff, Roger & Mary, for giving the field a final thorough clean up at the end;
Jesus Loves Sidley coming to help.
Pauline for bringing lunch for us all;
All Jesus Loves Bexhill supporters who took part or who prayed.

Litter Picking - July 2025

What a blustery morning we had on Saturday 5th July We were fewer in number, but it was a delight to have Jackie and Alison with us again, and also to welcome Alan for his first time with us. Thank you to all who were able to join us this morning; I believe I can say that everyone had a great time, even though the wind did try to play tricks on us. (I myself had to chase more than one piece of litter down the road!)
We started the morning supporting Steve and Diane of Bexhill Heritage, helping to set up their gazebo next to the Coronation Bandstand, as they were hosting an event for the Bexhill Festival of Music programme, with live music and a drama (what a helpful bunch we are!). Our good friend Kevin Terrell was involved, and a brief chat with him confirmed that he is still up for joining with us in creating a gospel music CD, and perhaps even a Christmas CD, both to be given away free, all of which will have a clear gospel message on their covers.
Knowing that what used to be called Cafe Capri has changed hands recently, one of us headed straight along there in the hope of speaking with the new owner. The cafe was being refurbished, and the new owner, Adam, was there, and a great conversation was had with him, sharing who Jesus Loves Bexhill are and what we do, and showing him the leaflets we have produced, including the map of Bexhill town centre with Cafe Capri listed. Adam, who has lived in Bexhill for many years and is excited about his new venture, said he would honour the offer of 10% off to anyone who presents the leaflet. The café will reopen on Monday 14th July "Lando's", so do pop in and meet him, letting him know you are with Jesus Loves Bexhill. He plans to open for the summer, and then to do a full refurbishment in the Autumn, opening the back part (the Criterion Room) as a restaurant. Something to look forward to.

Litter Picking - June 2025

Following on from the excellent display we had in the Town Council shop window, we had an "Open Meeting" at Homely Treatz in Western Road, where people hearing about us could ask questions, and as a result of that and other cafe meeting we had, two new members were able to join us.
On a glorious mid-summer's day, twelve intrepid Litter Pickers and Prayer Team members met at the bandstand which we had booked for the morning. We welcomed our new members, Jacqui and Alison and, after praying for God’s blessing on the morning, we set off, mainly in pairs, to collect litter and to spread the love of Jesus to the people of Bexhill. Our two new members were shown the ropes and they quickly adapted to the routine, picking it up as they went along!!!
As usual we had lots of thanks and praise from those we met. Jacqui and Judy had one particularly good conversation about smoking and the numerous cigarette ends that they were able to collect! Robert and Anne covered the town centre roads and they made a particularly good job of clearing some notable mess in Western Road.
Alison and Mike accompanied Jacqui and Judy along the seafront where they all enjoyed talking with people along the way. Alison got into conversation with a local Indian man and she was able to talk about some of the places she has visited in India. He was happy to share his Catholic faith and we ended up praying for him, (he said he had a painful back). He then prayed for us!

Bexhill Horse Show & Town Council Window Display - May/June 2025

We had a very good day at the Horse Show on May Bank Holiday Monday. What a blessing that we had such lovely weather, although a little windy at times. The gazebo stood up well in the windy blusts; many thanks to those who erected and packed it away!
We had a great team of a dozen or more Litter Pickers and several very encouraging conversations with interested enquirers. Altogether, a day of witnessing and fun. We left a field more litter-free than ever; a great witness!
Andew was able to give out a good number of his very professionally produced children's book, "My Parents Have Gone Mad!".
This book tells Jesus' parable of the man who sells all he has to buy a field where he has found much treasure. The book has the Jesus Loves Bexhill logo, contact details and an invitation to invite Jesus into the reader's life.
Do ask for a copy!!

Town Council Window Display - 27th May/5th June 2025

A valiant, and enthusiastic, team created an eye-catching display in the Town Council's shop window in Western Road, where it remained for nine days, a very visual display, with lots of people stopping to comment on what a great display it was, and checking to see if they know anybody in the photographs!

Apart from all our testimony leaflets, tabards displays for Bexhill and Sidley, badges, and necklaces etc, there were may photographs showing what we get up to!!
You would expect that some people would object, and there were a few, but for every one negative there were nine positive, Thank you Bexhill.
There was also an invitation there for interested folk to come to 'Homely Treatz on the following Saturday morning, to learn more about us, and our litter picking numbers increased as a result.

Spring Report - April 2025

An eventful and fulfilling morning! A team of 11 Litter Pickers and 6 Prayers assembled at the Bandstand at 10:15am.
As arranged, Dr Kieran Mullan, our newly elected MP, duly arrived on time at 10:30 fully prepared with his own litter pick stick and expectant to fit in with the Team!
After introductions, we invited Dr K to join us as we prayed and committed the morning to the Lord, asking that we may “clean up” the town and “spread the love of Jesus” to all we were to encounter. A memorable group photo was taken with our new MP.

Our team of 17 were split into groups: firstly, the exceptional team of Prayers managing the Coronation Bandstand and being the powerhouse for the day.
Then the various teams set off as advance parties, while Dr Kieran’s team followed. Geoff's Team with Dr Kieran visited Gopikka at Homely Treatz (Sharji was away as his father had recently died), Anne in the Christian bookshop and Craig in the Dart shop in the Mall, introducing Dr K to our respective contacts there. This team then met up with the advance party and were then handed over to Anne and Mike outside the church in Sackville Road.
To everyone’s surprise, we were spotted peering through the front door of the locked church, and invited in, and Dr Kieran given a guided tour of the newly purchased church building on the very first weekend of King's Bexhill’s ownership! We thank the Lord for His immaculate timing and sense of humour!
While the remainder of the group continued litter picking, Dr K was escorted along the seafront where were able to talk with him about his work and about our reasons for litter picking. He was an easy conversationalist, and we were soon on Christian name terms, with him doing his bit to gather litter!
As arranged, we delivered Kieran to the Grill House where we were very warmly greeted by the owner, Bogdan, and his wife Anna. We crowded in and were treated to a special Romanian tradition. This consisted of “breaking” a loaf of bread, dipping it in a bowl of salt then into a cup of plum wine which was suspiciously like neat vodka! (how like our own Lord’s Supper!) Bogdan and Anna were very happy to have photos taken with the MP and some of us with our hi-vis tabards and were extremely grateful to us for arranging this visit. Dr K entered into the spirit of the occasion; he was presented with two bottles of ‘very’ fortified wine which he declined, but not Geoff who ended up with three bottles; not sure about the Dracula Rose, but it is to be opened at our next “Curry Day” in May.

Back to the Bandstand, where the faithful Prayer Team had been supporting us and maintaining the display board. We shared our morning’s experiences and agreed that some very worthwhile contacts and relationships had been established, not least with our MP.
As is usual, there were reports of thanks from people. Alex, in usual manner, had an interesting conversation with a couple, new to Bexhill, who were asking about the Sackville Road church. Alex was able to explain that, as of just a few days ago, the building is the home of Bexhill King's and that they would be most welcome in a few weeks' time. Deborah and Anne made a detour to fulfil a promise made last time to a “posh” lady concerning Brockley Road to do a litter pick there! Interesting that we are now taking orders from householders for our services!
Meanwhile, June, David, Pam and Pauline welcomed a 90-year-old man into the Bandstand and the Prayer Team gave him a warm welcome and had a good chat with him about God's goodness! Outside the Bandstand were Marigold, Sue and Jenny, who spend time praying, and then talking with Margaret (our photographer for the day) and another lady who was in distress, fearing she was going to be evicted from her accommodation the next day.
An excellent start to a busy summer of proclaiming the Name of Jesus!

Report - Winter 2025

A team of 10 met by the Bandstand a very cold morning and the words “open door” were shared, along with Revelation 3: 7, where the Lord said to the Philadelphia church that He had “set before them an open door that no man can shut”. God has indeed set before Jesus Loves Bexhill an open door in Bexhill, and as we go out litter picking, He will set open doors before each of us. There was prayer along these lines and everyone set off. In the prayer meeting, we prayed for those open doors and for ‘Holy Spirit happenings’.
One received a picture of beacons being lit up all along the coast from Rye to Eastbourne. Another received the scripture in Isaiah about stretching your tent curtains wide, to the right and to the left (gazebos?!) – also meaning perhaps along the coast. We talked about the Bexhill beacon that has been removed from Galley Hill, but then remembered that we hope to get a lighthouse in that same area, which somehow seemed to be a sign of what is to come. We ended by singing ‘Send the Fire’. All the litter pickers returned encouraged, with Andrew and Alex reporting a particularly good morning.
Andrew had a good conversation with a lady and gave her our leaflets.
Another lady was in the entrance hall to her flat, with the door open. Andrew spoke with her and gave her leaflets. She gave him some money for the church, which he will put into the building fund. A man from upstairs called down and thanked them for litter picking.
Andrew also met a very lonely man who looks after his younger brother who is an addict, and invited him to church, and he seemed open to coming.
Alex also had some good encounters.
One man accepted his offer of prayer. He helped a couple of old ladies across the road and spoke with another lady who said she was a Christian but doesn’t attend any church.
Geoff wrote:
As I was coming up to Alex and Andrew, who were well into their respective conversations, Alex stopped as I approached to introduce me to the lady he was talking to, and mentioned my name. She responded by saying that her husband knew a man with the same surname, and gave his name. Wow, yes, you’ve guessed it, the lady’s husband was a school chum and friend of my brother; I also knew him very well, and in fact he was my rear companion on our tandem holiday trip to the Isle of Wight, and to many pub visits in the area, both claiming fame by shaking hands with “Mr Pastry” at Rye bonfire night!! What will come of that renewal of contact after more than 60 years we wait to see. As usual many people expressed gratitude for what we were doing, but it was rather cold to stop and enter into meaningful conversations. Taking refuge in Homely Treatz, where we are building on our relationship from previous visits, we had the opportunity of talking to the owner who was originally from Mumbai, about one particular Bexhill church’s links with a church in his home town, and whether he, and his contacts, would like to meet him when he makes his next visit. He responded by saying that he is heavily involved with many Indian groups (one of which has 400 members) and if he was given adequate notice perhaps up to 40 people would like to come to that particular church to meet him!!! What a challenge! A very encouraging and rewarding morning.

Autumn Report - November 2024

One of the many joys of telling people about Jesus is the simple pleasure of meeting new faces each time we go out.
Most of us don’t fully appreciate how often we walk past many people each day without any form of human acknowledgement. Picking up litter as volunteers, and wearing a badge of Jesus, declaring to the world that we are God’s children, is an amazing privilege. To carry the national flag at an Olympic ceremony is a massive honour, but to bear the banner of Jesus’ love... the cross, is incomparable! Each of us in the team has found that people are much more open and approachable because of what we do...but our aim is to direct these folk to the One who loves unconditionally.
As summer has given way to autumn, (and a very wet one too), we have been limited, being in the town rather than the seafront; conversations of any depth have therefore been fewer. However, we have still made a good number of new friends, and we meet ever more old acquaintances every time we go out proclaiming the Name of Jesus in our town.
On other fronts too, we have seen much blessing. We put in a bid with the Bexhill Council for another grant award and, when this was voted on, it was so strongly endorsed by a previous mayor that we were unanimously awarded £500! Much of this grant has already been spent on new equipment, especially some new hi-vis tabards. Other very generous gifts have been made so that our funds are now ready for the future and more teams! (see below!)
NEW TEAMS We are very excited about new teams being established; the latest being Sidley. This newest branch is now ready to go and already has tabards, sweatshirts etc all with the logo and “Jesus Loves Sidley”.
Earlier connections made are now showing great signs of coming to fruition. Crawley Down, East Grinstead and Copthorne churches have all indicated a sincere wish to start their own “Jesus Loves” litter picking evangelism! We will be helping with the artwork, graphics and logos to help set up these new ventures. No doubt some Bexhill team members will be able to assist with a launch before long! God is certainly blessing us and, importantly, He is teaching us so much about His love on the way.
SOME NOTES OF OUR RECENT ADVENTURES
Alex and Jack had the joy of praying for healing for two separate people, one woman with back problems for which she had tried reiki healing and crystals and a man with bladder cancer.
Geoff met a man visiting from Pevensey who had been badly injured in a car accident. An excellent conversation ensued with testimony sheets being accepted.
Roger and Mary also met a man who, like the lady whom Alex and Jack encountered, was “looking for a celebration” of reiki healing. He was directed to Jesus! They also saw a notice about a lady who had passed away; they thought that this may well have been the same lady that they had met last time.
Other team members had numerous positive comments.

Late Summer Report - September 2024

BEXHILL 100, CLASSIC CAR SHOW 2024
A full and eventful day! Anne and her team set up the Jesus Loves Bexhill gazebo bright and early. Equipped with litter picking gear we set off on a busy day keeping the field free of litter.
The gazebo was manned all day. We had many visitors to our base and had some very productive conversations with people passing by, many of whom wanted to stay and chat.
Our newly-elected MP, Kieran Mullan, together with our Town Mayor, actually sought us out, thanks to a prior contact which Geoff had made. Kieran actually promised to join us on one of our litter picking outings! Some good photos were taken!
The site was well organised by Bexhill 100. We collected a lot of litter and left the field clearer of rubbish at the end than at the beginning!
A lasting memory I have was of Andrew, Menaka and Geoff, as the evening light faded, still seeking out litter in the distance!
The Bexhill 100 Club chairman contacted Geoff to specifically thank us for a very good job done!
Isn't it an honour to help in a practical way at the same time as proclaiming the Name of Jesus?!
Saturday Sept, 7th. Litter Picking
A good team of twelve arrived, including our new members, Jack, Annabel and Alex; a few came later so there were 14 of us in the end.
As usual we set off, in pairs this time, on a showery morning. Judy, Andrew, Alex, Jamie, Anne and Annabel all set off in varying directions and had some good conversations and many 'thank you' comments.
Roger and Mary met a lady near St Barnabas Church. She was struggling with an alcoholic problem and was in some distress about a care home. It is likely that she was about to collect some food from the church; Roger and Mary promised to pray for her situation.
Geoff had a good conversation with two cyclists who, it turned out, were Christians from Hailsham. At this point, it needs to be recorded, Geoff took shelter in Cafe Capri for a coffee! (He narrowly missed Jack and Mike who had just left!)
Alex and Andrew both had equipment problems, as their two litter pick sticks failed...that's their story anyway! They then had some excellent conversations as they continued looking useful and prayed that they would meet those that the Holy Spirit directed.
Jack and Mike met Anthony, an eccentric man with a powerful testimony of God, but he was a bit muddled. An older man, he told of a time when an unseen hand stopped him from driving while under the influence of drink. He talked a lot and we did not have much chance to speak! He too, was prayed for as we moved on!
Pauline arrived at the Bandstand. On her way she had stopped to help a friend, who is into spiritualism. The Lord told Pauline to bring her to church. When she got there, her friend unburdened herself to Pauline. She said that she would go to the Sunday church meeting.
Pauline asked for prayer - she is having a hip replacement pre-op assessment on Tuesday.
We heard that Stella from The Bathing Station had been admitted unwell to hospital but, even so, she was so concerned that we would not have any coffee that she had arranged for someone to open up the kiosk, just for us, and also for the chairman of the bandstand to open up there as well! What grace!
We signed a card for Stella and June and Geoff visited that afternoon, to Stella's joy and amazement!
Love in action in the Name of Jesus!
Our next outing in Bexhill is on Saturday 21st Sept at the Bexhill Lions Street Market in Devonshire Road.
SIDLEY
Roger and Mary went litter picking on Tuesday 10th September during the morning, along Ninfield Road, which had much litter – they collected 5 full sacks which they have arranged to be picked up. They had a fairly long and friendly conversation with a young lady who picks up litter regularly, and others thanked them. They were able to help a lady by returning her jacket that she had dropped without realising. No significant conversations but they trust the message on the tabards was noticed.
They will concentrate on Sidley shopping area next time as there will be many more passers-by.

OUR PRAYER AND PRAISE night is on Tuesday 17th at 7:30pm Come and be blessed!

Report - July / August 2024

OUR SU
It was with great sadness that we had the sudden news of the passing of Su Szlafke. She went into hospital on Tuesday August 7th for treatment to an infected leg but she did not survive the operation and she died on August 9th. The day before her operation she was visited and show our new poster which featured her on her mobility scooter in one of the cartoons, which made her chuckle and give a big smile, a good memory. Su was a wonderful friend and faithful member of our Jesus Loves Bexhill Litter Picking group. Su was always cheerful and her wide smile and hi-vis vest displayed on her mobility scooter were well known and loved in the town. We will long remember her and miss her very much; today and for eternity, Su will be enjoying her reward, 'dancing in Heaven'.
BEXHILL CARNIVAL
The sun shone on a warm and eventful day! We were out in full force with the gazebo in a prominent position. As the day progressed, we were surrounded with an exceptionally large crowd as we had a great view of the procession as it passed by. There was the usual banter and laughter as we mingled in the fairground amusements. Our hi-vis vests were easily noticed among the crowd as we filled countless bags of gathered litter. Geoff was given some free tickets, so Anne and Menaka braved the helter-skelter then they did battle with Geoff and Mike on the dodgems! (Anne had to have a lesson early on to find the accelerator pedal!) All much to the amusement of the local press photographer. As usual we received many good comments from the Bexhill Carnival organisers and the fairground staff. A good day...and above all, hundreds of people could not fail to see that Jesus does love Bexhill!
SATURDAY AUGUST 10th
We assembled in a solemn mood as we remembered our very special friend, Sue. We were joined by Roger and Mary, new members from Sidley Freedom Church. We were able to give out several Testimony sheets to those who expressed an interest. Roger and Mary commented how much easier it is to share their faith when picking up litter. They want to start a group in Sidley now...praise God!

Report - Mid Summer 2024

It finally seems that some summer has at last arrived! We have been out in the town as usual, with some good contacts made and more examples of good will. Some people have been prayed for and blessed in ways that only time will tell! Recently, Deborah met a couple who were looking a bit down. On enquiring, it was discovered that Malcolm, (not his real name), had recently had a major heart attack. Deborah offered to pray for him whereupon, he said that as a result of his recent 'fright', he had "made things right with God"; Deborah was then able to pray for him and his partner for God's continued blessing and revelation. Dedorah, on a usual roll, then went on and was able to pray for Jeff, who had a very sore leg. Geoff and Judy had a unique experience when they met Gavin and Tracey with their pink Cadillac.
Judy was encouraged into the driver's seat. When she asked what "this key does?", she was hurried out of the car but not before Geoff took this photo! Geoff had by now made good friends of Gavin and Tracey, and gave them each a Testimony leaflet. As with so many contacts, we will see these new friends again!" Andrew and Mike headed off together but as Andrew simply cannot resist picking up every fag-end, he and Mike became separated only to meet up again as they joined together in two interesting conversations with local men, Tony and David. Both men were keen to talk and we were able to explain what we did and the reason for it. They were both very happy to receive Testimony leaflets. On our way back to the Bandstand, Andrew and I were spontaneously offered free drinks at Louis' cafe. These offers of hospitality just increase; A gentleman, who glories in the name of Bogdan, had kindly offered us 10% on all his food and drinks at his newly opened The Grill House restaurant on the seafront, as well as free cold drinks when we are passing.

Report - May 2024

Report - March/April 2024

Summer still seems a long way off, but not daunted, we have been out in force, faithfully backed by our Payer Team each fortnight. The colder the weather, the greater has been the appreciation shown to us by those we meet...last week, we even had someone calling across the street from an upper floor window to thank us; so much good will and all in the name of Jesus!
Talking of good will, we recently caught up with Frank who we first met three or four years ago. Frank has been in a nursing home for several months and Geoff and some others in our team have been able to visit him. He is now back in his flat and we have been able to continue our friendship with him, even able to do a little practical repair work for him in his flat. On a visit last week, he told us that he has never known such friendship before. We pray that in his time, he will welcome the Jesus that loves us so much.
One of our team recently had a lengthy conversation with a retired man, who moved to Bexhill in 2020; his wife died three years ago. We nicknamed him Banana man with his approval, as he told us that he had spent most of his life working in the Carribean with a banana packing company. After a good chat he told us that he had not spoken to a soul in the previous four days! We will meet up again on the seafront; we now have a God given opportunity to introduce him to a new and special Friend!
We thank God that we can share the Good News of Jesus so freely! What a privilege! With warmer weather ahead and with the faithful prayer backing on the Friday mornings prior to our Saturday outings, we expect great things!
JESUS LOVES BEXHILL!

Report - February 2024

Despite some very wet and cold weather, we have been out litter-picking and spreading the love of Jesus; smiles and friendly faces in the name of Jesus make a huge difference. Who would have thought that litter in our streets could be put to heavenly use! We have a great team of prayers and litter-pickers! Litter-picking has resulted in many seeds being sown, simply by wearing our Jesus Loves Bexhill tabards, and we have received many smiles of gratification and thanks. We are believing for a great harvest during the coming summer months. 
We feel that Jesus Loves Bexhill ‘has come of age’ being widely acknowledged and welcomed in the town. Following on from the prayer that we have taken on board since last December, for a double portion of the favour and blessings received in 2023, we shared in January all about our wonderful Jesus Loves Bexhill group at a Men’s Inter-church Fellowship and Bexhill Churches together, and in February we were given one of the main Sunday slots at King’s Church Bexhill, where the response was above and beyond what was expected, with loads of compliments and email congratulations, and even the church leaders being greatly blessed. We received many requests for our metal Jesus Loves Bexhill badges, even from people who were just visiting for the first time! We now have over 80 of the badges in circulation, and they have more than paid for themselves. On many occasions, strangers have asked us about them. 
This year Geoff has put together a “Bexhill Information” card to be given to any Bexhill visitors we come across during our adventures, and Café Capri have agreed to give a 10% discount on ice-creams purchased, on presentation of the card! It’s really good to know that when these cards are given out, they will not be thrown away, and the name of “Jesus” is being read out time and time again. What a joy! 
Frank has been visited a number of times since he has been in Mais House. Each time, he has been so pleased at getting a visitor that he has told all those he passed whilst escorting the visitor to his room and getting them a tea or coffee. He has no real family so visitors are especially welcome, and it is hoped he will return to his flat in March, in which case we can expect to see him on the promenade again. 
Dates for your diary: 
At some point during March from 7–8 pm, there will be a Prayer and Praise time at Andrew and Sally’s home; we have much to praise God for and to pray about, date to be advised! 
On Saturday April 6th, after our normal Litter-Picking adventure, Geoff & June have invited us all back for curry or Chinese meal, then later tea and cake. All family members are welcome. Geoff still needs lots of disposable biodegradable bowls and forks for this event please.
We have a year full of adventure ahead as we share the love of JESUS and raise His Name in Bexhill! 

Report - 13th January 2024

For this week's feedback, I would like to start with the prayer team.  We were greatly encouraged by the feedback from the prayer team this morning.  Two particular pictures were shared: the first one, that each of the team walking the streets this morning were like lighthouses - each one shining the light of Jesus not just forward, but in all directions as people see us from the front, sides and from behind; the second picture was that of a net, and that we were fishers of men and women. The litter picking team were greatly encouraged, and we shall remember these pictures as we go out in the weeks and months to come. 

It was a cold morning this morning, the need for hats and gloves most needed.  As we went out, we weren't expecting to have many encounters as we thought people would not want to stop and chat.  However, some did, old friends were seen as well as people we have become acquainted with previously, and relationships were built.  We want to be building relationships with the people we often see in the town, and the store-holders from shops and cafes we frequent.  It's not just about a one time contact. 

The litter-picking team also prayed at the beginning of the morning, that Jesus' name would be glorified as people saw us out serving the community on such a cold day, with our bright tabards lifting the name of Jesus high.  So the picture of each one of us being a lighthouse was particularly uplifting.

The encouragement that we are fishers of men and women in Bexhill is a great encouragement to every one of us.  There are some skilled in wielding the nets to bring in the catch, and there are many others supporting in other ways.  All are a part of the group and play a part in bringing in the catch.  May we please see many souls 'caught' and harvested this year for you, Lord Jesus.

Report - 14th October 2023

We had another morning of adventures on Saturday, but firstly  let me tell you about Kevin, who we met last time.

Kevin: briefly, Kevin is currently homeless, who we met sitting on a bench, reading "The Lord of the Rings"...a great conversation starter! We invited him back to the Bandstand where he explained that he was on a journey, walking to the Jurassic Coast in Devon. We talked about our journeys with Jesus and we prayed for him. Menaka, very helpfully, produced a list of places in Bexhill where he could be given food and a warm-up welcome.On this occasion, there were twelve of us; Kevin said he would look out for us and in fact, Helen bumped into him in the town later in the week.
Geoff made a copy of Menaka's list which he has now printed out and laminated for us to use when needed; wonderful and so useful!

Meanwhile, last Saturday, though small in numbers, we set off in pairs as usual, knowing we had the all important prayer backing from our Prayer Team.
Ann and Jane met a lady who is planning to move to Norfolk to be near her dad. They prayed for her as she had some hurdles to overcome first. They then met Jenny from St John's who helps with the homeless. She was thrilled to hear what we are doing and was very grateful to receive one of our Homeless Help Information cards!

Judy and Mike met Dawn and her carer, David. Mike recognised Dawn as she had been a parent of children at Sidley School. Dawn is suffering with a bad back, a result of osteoporosis.
Judy prayed for David who was quite emotional and we promised to pray for Dawn. 

Geoff meanwhile, set off to visit the 'Warm-up the Homeless' shop to explain the Information card and to get their advice. They proved very helpful and pleased to have some cards to give out.
Geoff made a similar very useful visit to the Emmaus shop. They informed him of the activities of the Emmaus centre in Hastings where much assistance can be offered.
We are excited that we have found a new and effective way of sharing the love of Jesus and guiding needy folk to receive practical help.

THE FOOTBRIDGE GALLERY PROJECT
Diana Birch, CEO of the project has asked for our help this coming Saturday, 21st. October for the launch of the latest gallery exhibition.
She has specifically asked us to help tidy up litter and help pack up at the end, (not as previously expected to help at the start).
I will be there from 2PM till about 4PM to help, do join if you can. There will be several gazebos and various artistic displays and exhibits and the event runs from 10AM to 3PM but our help is requested from 2PM to help with litter picking then with packing up. Please let me know if you can help; it's great to be wanted!!

Report - 16th September 2023

Our adventure, in support of Bexhill Lions and the continental market, started for us late Friday afternoon when we met for prayer at David & Pam’s and, whilst a number of our regulars were away in Falmouth, we nevertheless had a good time of prayer, and we are looking forward to all meeting together. Our prayer times have been interesting in as much as we all come from different backgrounds and even different ways of praying. It’s exciting that when we all come together, we will be guided by the Holy Spirit and all our prayer lives will be strengthened and nourished as a result.
On Saturday Geoff, Andrew, Judy and Mike gathered, as usual, next to the bandstand to collect any testimony leaflets and bags that were needed, and off we went to patrol Devonshire Road and the surrounding area. We were accompanied by Andrew’s dog, Jasper, for the first time.  

Before we had even started, Andrew met up with a man called David, who had had to have his dog put down the previous day.  Jasper made a fuss of him, and Andrew showed love, sympathy and understanding.  Andrew told him that he would pray for him, and that God could fill the hole left by his companion. 
We had lots of encouraging conversations; people were happy to talk and take a leaflet; there was the chap with a lovely Cockapoo who wants to move to Bexhill from Tunbridge Wells, and a couple with two black Labradors - the dogs got a dog biscuit and the owners a testimony leaflet.
One of the French market traders gave me a third off what I was purchasing; not sure whether it was a sales ploy or his attraction to my Jesus Loves Bexhill tabard!
Mike had a really interesting, 20 minute chat with David,  a gentleman from the east end of London. He offered Mike a pint of beer and Mike offered him a Testimony sheet; Dave accepted the testimony leaflet!

At midday we met together in the bandstand and were visited by Veronica and Frank, who we had earlier met in Devonshire Road. We have witnessed to Frank over a number of years, prayed for him and invited him to church, up to now with little success, but he voluntarily, with hardly any encouragement, stated that he would like to come to church, and so arrangements have been made to collect him next Sunday.  (Please look out for him at Kings, Bexhill, if you attend there on this Sunday). Isn’t that great, sometimes you get instant blessings, sometimes it takes a while, but we must never give up.

Then in the afternoon, after talking to some stall holders, I took a break by having a rest on the bench at the top of Western Road; after a few minutes I was joined by Andrew, who noticed after a while that there was a chap leaning on a bollard next to the bench, with a painful expression on his face.  Andrew asked him if he was ok, which he wasn’t, and if he needed to sit down; we quickly gave him the space.  He shared that his knee had locked up and he needed to sit down but didn’t want to ask. His name was Kenny, and we proceeded to have a good conversation with him, including that God loved him.  He is a newcomer to Bexhill, a very nice chap, very friendly and positive. 

All in all a blessed day.