Tears over taunts

Maree Hanna, who lives in the Woodsgate Park area, claims when she walks along Downs Road she is subject to swearing and verbal aggression from youngsters hanging around in groups.

"They call me the c-word - and I don't mean 'cow'.

"Just because I am wearing lipstick, I get called a prostitute and a tart...How much are you worth tonight, love?

"These are children ranging from about 11 years old to maybe 15...I know they are from Bexhill High because they are dressed in the uniform.

"I get into tears about it. It is very upsetting. People say you should let it breeze over you but it doesn't."

Maree continued: "I like wearing my red lipstick. I like wearing a dress. I don't see what harm I am doing to them. It is as if I am being made to be a criminal for wearing the clothes that I want and having the appearance I want to have."

She has contacted Bexhill High to complain about verbal abuse from pupils but feels it is a waste of time and wonders why no action is taken to curb their behaviour. She claims she was told if she cannot name the culprits then the school cannot take any action.

She added: "I would just like to understand what the school is doing? Why are they not sending a member of staff up there to see what is going on?"

Vice Principal Di Hawksby said this week that a teacher had visited the recreation area to watch what was going on.

She commented: "Obviously if a member of the public makes a complaint, the complaints are followed up...but I need the information as to when and where, and at what times of the day does this occur. Then I would ask staff to go and patrol in that area, and if necessary take further action - which is how we deal with all complaints."