I am sure Paul John Harris (Letters Aug 27) is sincere in his comments re Newhaven’s sandy beach. I do wonder how long he has lived in Newhaven and whether his childhood was spent paddling and playing in the sand.

I lived in Newhaven from 1947 and used the sandy beach for a safe swim. When I had children they spent the summer on the beach which was always crowded.

On good days in the winter we went to the beach. We were never alone.

In those days Newhaven was a thriving port. Dredging was constant. There were always cargo boats moored and plenty of work.

The ferry now is subsidised by the French. Because it loses money they threaten every year to stop the subsidy.

French unions are strong and the French do not want to lose their jobs.

If the ferry closes it will not be because children play on the sandy beach affecting the work of the port or the dredging and it was never suggested it did.

After it closed I was walking along the top promenade when a coach load of disabled children arrived from London to play on the beach.

For the rest of my life I will remember the disappointment on their faces when they found themselves deprived of this treat.

Newhaven has skilled people who would be happy to repair the steps and there could be an agreement that people use it at their own risk.

My grandchildren were denied it. I would like to see my great grandchildren enjoy it.

Mrs Robinson, York Road, Peacehaven