My first blog – an introduction

A sunny morning on Kingsdown beach

I love where I live.

Yes I’m happy in my house, and the rabbit warren-like community it was built in. But seriously, in terms of scenery and all that matters, I love where I live.

Few journalists are fortunate enough to work in an area that inspires and enriches them. And Deal, with its natural energy from the sea, geological beauty from the nearby White Cliffs and sturdy industry from the fields and farms, makes the town my Achilles heel.

Then there’s the people. A mixed bag of born-and-breds; colliery, shipping and Pfizer migrants; and the trendy DFLs (Down from Londons) who have bought art and boutiques into our fishing town psyche.

A writer can only harp on so much about the stunning view towards France at St Margaret’s Bay or the sight of white horses crashing against the Goodwin Sands from Nelson’s Bench at Ringwould. It’s the people – and often their antics – that take up the column inches.

So that’s what this blog is all about: A tribute to the people of Deal.

What you’ll see is posts on residents and their present endeavours – and you’ll also read about people who are no longer with us. I’ll be telling of their past accolades through anecdotes, articles – most from my own note pad.

Why do I think we need this? Because the cliffs castles and shoreline have stood the test of time.

If only the lives of people from this special town could.