Group seeks royal patron

PRINCE Andrew has been approached to become the patron of Newhaven s Friends of HMS Forward.

HMS Forward was a Second World War top secret Naval intelligence centre set up in tunnels dug into the hillside at South Heighton. It played an active part in many major military operations from 1940-45 including the Dieppe Raid and Normandy landings.

The derelict tunnels have been cleared of rubbish and work is continuing to restore them as a tourist attraction.

The former Lord Lieutenant of East Sussex, Admiral Sir Lindsay Bryson, has recently agreed to become the group s president and the Duke of York, Prince Andrew, has now been asked to give his support.

Friends chairman Denis Forsdike said: 'We are dedicated to restoring HMS Forward as an historic monument and a vital part of our national heritage.

The group holds its annual meeting at the Denton Island Training and Business Centre in Newhaven on Thursday at 7pm. Members and non-members are welcome.