Hastings Old Town character Dee Day White lays everything bare in new book on his life

On June 6 1944, Bert White, Old Town publican and Head launcher of the Hastings Lifeboat decided to name his son D-Day because he was born in the early hours of that momentous day.

Local officials were opposed but finally agreed to register him as Dee Day.

The book - ‘Those Were the Dee Days’ is a personal account of growing up as a child in the Old Town and also encompasses him falling in love for the first time and running a tea room and antiques business in Courthouse Street.

It contains many photographs and a wealth of details about various Old Town characters as Dee Day expresses his love for the local community and strong sense of social values. It covers such events as the VE Day celebrations in the Old Town and the many carnival events that Dee Day has been involved in over the years.

Profits from the book will go to the maintenance and upkeep of the two historic lifeboats on display in the Old Town.

Dee day explained: “After spending 12 weeks in confinement and driving his wife crazy with all his thoughts and memories, what does a 76 year old man do?

“You should just write it all down said my wife Beverley, including the good, bad, happy and sad. If people are interested to read it they will also be helping our two old ladies of the sea.”

The book is published by Pett based Edgerton publishing and is priced £10.99. To order a copy calll 07812 077008.

See also: New book on history of local family owned coach firm Cooks