Mayor of Hastings meets with past mayor's family to mark 50th anniversary

On Friday 19 July, the Mayor of Hastings, Cllr Judy Rogers, met with the family of Horace Funnell, who became mayor of Hastings in May 1974. To mark the 50th anniversary of his investiture, the family travelled to Hastings from Andover in Hampshire, where they had relocated for Horace's son Brian's job as Financial Director of Twinings.

Horace, who was the first Labour mayor of Hastings, sadly passed away in 1982. He left items from his time as mayor to his grandson Paul Funnell. These items, which included his mayoral memorial medal and hat were kindly donated back to Hastings by the family during their visit, alongside a framed photograph of Horace. These items will be displayed in Hastings Town Hall so they can be enjoyed by visitors.

Cllr Judy Rogers, Mayor of Hastings, said, "I was delighted to have received a request to meet with the Funnell family during their recent trip to Hastings. As well as marking 50 years since Horace Funnell became mayor, the family were also in Hastings celebrating the Diamond wedding anniversary of Horace's son Brian and daughter-in-law June, who were married on 18 July 1964 in Ore Church. It was an honour to have been able to meet with them to mark these special occasions and to hear about the past mayor from those who knew him best."

Brian Funnell, added, "This is a fine way to remember the contributions to, and affection for, Hastings of my father (and mother). We thank the mayor for her reception and joining in the celebrations. Winkle up!"