Observer Comment: Bexhill basks in celebration for the royal wedding

While the world’s eyes were on Prince Willam and Kate Middleton tying the knot at Westminster Abbey, there was plenty to celebrate much closer to home.

With a plethora of public and private bashes, a formal street party and a fun run, there was certainly plenty to get involved in on the big day.

Like the wedding itself, all these local functions went without a hitch - showing how such a high-profile and happy event can help bring people together.

The only slightly sour note in Bexhill appears to have been the closure of the De La Warr Pavilion, an iconic building many feel should perhaps itself have become involved in the celebrations.

However the best surprise to come out of the festivities was the story of tailor Malcolm Plews, who lives in Bexhill but works at the top of the sartorial league in Savile Row.

He was given an urgent commission to make up a new dress uniform for Prince Charles to wear at the ceremony, and only 10 days to finish it in.

Needless to say he was successful, giving the town a subtle but direct link to such an historic occasion.