In the early hours of July 17th 2006 fire broke out and destroyed the burgeoning young business of Lovejoy’s, in Market Road, Rye. A devastating blow for proprietors Barbara and Keith Lovejoy, after just two and a half years of trading.
At the time there was much speculation as to the cause of the fire, especially in light of the spate of arson attacks that the town had suffered. Most notably, Martyn Channons Country Store, also recently re-opened in the towns cattle market.
The loss adjusters own forensic officer however laid all suspicions to rest after the fire officers inspection the following day and the subsequent examination later that week.
It transpired that whilst attending to an unexplained activation of the monitored alarm system at around 3a.m the wiring to the landing light overheated and set light to the insulation on the wire. Given the age and construction of the building the fire quickly spread through the timber lined walls and stairwell, until 4a.m when burning debris falling triggered the alarm again.
Thanks to the prompt action of the local retained firemen the blaze was prevented from damaging the roof timbers and the threat of it then spreading to neighbouring properties was averted.
Now just three weeks short of the anniversary of that day the shop has been re-instated and will be trading normally from Saturday 23rd June, with the added bonus of now being able to shop online at lovejoys-ltd.co.uk.
Barbara and Keith would both like to take this opportunity to thank all the well wishers that have taken the trouble to pop in and see them and for all the good luck cards.
Rye Royal British Legion Branch
The Rye Royal British Legion Branch, which exists to promote and safeguard the interests of all ex-Servicemen and women is continuing to grow and flourish at its new meeting place at the George in Rye. Although Remembrance and welfare activities are paramount, the Branch has a full programme of other events during the year, including a Coffee Morning to be held at Rye Community Centre at Conduit Hill in the autumn; the Branch is also looking forward to a Remembrance tour to the Somme in November.
The Branch manages a Welfare Fund which is held for the benefit of the ex-service men and women of Rye. If you know of anybody who is in need of help or support, please do not hesitate in contacting the Welfare Officer, Brian Smith, on 01797 – 223 150.
We meet on the second Monday of every month at 19:30 the George hotel in Rye, all members are more than welcome to join in and contribute to the debate (although for obvious reasons welfare cases are held in private).
For further information please contact the Chairman, Neale East, on 01797 – 225 852 or email [email protected]
“Rye’s Own” August 2007
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