insideSUSSEX Magazine | Page 28

TOWNSPOTLIGHT
SPOTLIGHT ON

SHOREHAM

SHOREHAM-BY-SEA, MORE COMMONLY KNOWN AS SHOREHAM, is not only a joy for historians – the town boasts some remarkable old buildings and there is plenty of interesting past to research – but it’ s also a great spot for finding out what the future of Sussex might end up holding. Modern new developments including homes and shops put Shoreham firmly on the map as the very definition of up and coming.
HISTORY IN BRIEF
Shoreham dates back to before the Roman invasion of 55 BC, but it remained a tiny little settlement until Christianity made it popular. At the beginning of the 12th century, the church of St Mary de Haura( St Mary of the Haven) was built. It was a huge building; a monumental undertaking, and it drew the admiration of people from across the country, many of whom came to see it, and it was this sudden influx of visitors that meant Shoreham had to start flourishing. It had to open shops, taverns, inns to accommodate its newfound popularity, and it had to have some kind of order to it. Put plainly, it had to grow. So it did.
TOP SPOT
Ropetackle Arts Centre is Shoreham’ s award-winning, community-run arts venue. This April marks an incredible 10 years since the centre first opened and they’ ve got lots in store to celebrate. Join them throughout the month for a series of special events, workshops and free activities, from music to comedy, theatre and film, and download or pick up their special anniversary brochure where you can meet the team and discover their story. A registered charity run by volunteers, they are also fundraising to improve and upgrade some key equipment. Find out more and join the celebrations by visiting www. ropetacklecentre. co. uk.
DID YOU KNOW?
Shoreham Airport is the oldest British airport still in existence. It was first used for commercial flights in 1911.
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