Inside this week's Hastings Observer (March 3)

This week's Hastings Observer is on sale today (Friday, March 3) and here's what you can find inside:
Hastings Observer front page, 03-03-17 SUS-170303-094226001Hastings Observer front page, 03-03-17 SUS-170303-094226001
Hastings Observer front page, 03-03-17 SUS-170303-094226001

We lead on the announcement by Pirate Day organisers that they wish to take on a new record this year, by creating the biggest pirate flag in the world. Roger Crouch has called on the community to back the idea, and lists ways in which they can get involved. Hastings is no stranger to pirate-related records, having packed 8,734 people dressed as privateers, sea dogs and buccaneers on its prom in 2011 to beat Penzance’s record of having the most pirates in one place

In other event news, Jack in the Green organisers have chosen to limit the number of drumming groups taking part in the parade this year in a bid to make the event ‘more diverse and interesting’.

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A business owner speaks to the Observer this week about the devastating damage done to her recently-opened jewellery shop after a pipe burst in Marine Court, and one angry parent speaks out about a primary school’s pen policy, believing it could lead to bullying among pupils.

A truly heartwarming story to feature in this week’s edition tells the story of baby Joseph Junior, who was delivered by his grandmother in the front seat of her car after his mother Emma went into labour on the way to the hospital. We are pleased to report both mum and baby are doing well following the dramatic delivery.

Some more uplifting news included in the paper includes a woman’s display of devotion to her boyfriend by taking pictures of love notes in exotic places all over the world, and the opening of a new play park in memory of five-month-old Sophie.

In health news, Aabrand new integrated service for people with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in Hastings and Rother promises to deliver some ‘significant improvements’ for patients, and a consultant and a surgical unit at the Conquest Hospital have been praised for “excellent” training.

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Our politics editor this week talks about proposed boundary changes for the area as a second round of consultation opens, and we feature a double-page special report on what Sussex Police are doing to better record and tackle the number of assaults on officers.

The paper also includes a double-page of pictures from Sunday’s Umbrella Parade as part of the Fat Tuesday celebrations in the town, while our nine-page What’s On guide also includes a round-up of the Fat Tuesday festival highlights.

Another page features photographs from the first stage of the Hastings International Piano Concerto Competition, and there is also a feature on St Mary in the Castle’s special anniversary event, held to celebrate Women’s Rights heroine Muriel Matters and the launch of its fundraising initiative ‘St Mary’s Matters to you!’.

This week’s nostalgia offering looks at the history of St Andrew’s Square, and there are eight pages of Business Matters news.

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Nine pages of sport leads on Hastings United boss Darren Hare’s belief that 20 more points will secure the side a play-off spot this season.

On top of all that, there is the usual court listings, letters, essential information and an exclusive offer that entitles our readers to buy one get one free pizza at Pizzarelli.

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