Monday, 26 August 2024

Hunting for "The Australian Trophy"

...or a photo, or someone who knows of it? HSLO online shows this trophy still being awarded in 1958 - Australian trophy and miniature shield and prize (heaviest catch on any day by local angler): G, W. Stapley (Hastings and St. Leonards) Hastings and St Leonards Observer 1917 - Congratulations to Mr. R. Springett, who the winner of the Australian trophy presented Mrs. Robertson (nee Miss Abbott). This trophy has been presented to the Sea Angling Festival Committee to commemorate an Australian lady's association with the anglers of this town. It is symbolical of our great colony, and depicts the aborigine, emu, and kangaroo. One of Australia's big trees supports in its branches abeautifully engraved emu's egg. Mr. R. Springett will hold the trophy for one year. Only local resident anglers may compete for the honour. David Abbott, her father, was also a member of the Angling Club; he died at the Buchanan, while on a visit to his daughter and is buried in the cemetery - https://friendsofhastingscemetery.org.uk/abbottd.html

Monday, 19 August 2024

The people we meet.....

 ...when exploring Hastings Cemetery, and the mysteries we find (and occasionally solve).

  • Brooks, William Alfred - A Church Lads’ Brigade funeral;  he was for five years a member of Blacklands Choir, and a sergean

  • t in the Church Lads’ Brigade.


  • Godney, Lt. Col Philip & Mary Louisa - Philip was killed in the Indian Mutiny,and Mary escaped with some of their children