Seaford Museum and Heritage Society, c/o Tourist Information Centre, 25 Clinton Place, Seaford, East Sussex BN25 INP

13th September 2001

Dear Mrs Barrett

I am so sorry to hear of your husband's illness. It seems particularly sad that the future for the King's Mead buildings is under discussion and contention at the moment and is adding to the stress.

This is really to let you know what is happening from the Museum's point of view and how we are involved. I hope that perhaps there is some comfort in that everyone involved is anxious to make the best possible arrangements in what is a very difficult situation. I have talked to all the interested parties, including Westminster Health Care, and have given copies of your husband's history of the school and excerpts from the Chapel Record to each of them. I have also visited the chapel and one of our museum members is currently photographing it in detail. There is no doubt that it is in a rather sad state but I do not think that it is due to any neglect on the part of the current owners. The main beams appear to be unable to bear the weight of the roof any longer and temporary extra supports have been put in place.

As far as the memorial tablets and the windows are concerned we have said that the museum would take them if all else fails but my own feeling is that the other possibility of incorporating them in a new building or installing the tablets in Blatchington Church would be preferable. Another suggestion has been that the chapel roof should be removed and the area perhaps become a quiet garden.

A great deal depends on the architects for Westminster Health Care and their instructions, and of course on the future of WHC themselves. I understand that the company may be sold, albeit as a going concern to another healthcare company.

The only reassurance that I can offer is that the owners are very aware of the history of the buildings and of the sensitivity of any site redevelopment and that we are keen help in any way that we can.

My Mother joins in sending our very best regards - we are so very sorry that when we have made contact with you again it should be at such a difficult time.

Yours very sincerely,

Kay Turvey

(tel: 01323 989222; e-mail: museumseaford@tinyonline.co.uk)

(neighbour and close friend of Connie Brewer)

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