It was with great sadness I read of the closing of the Grand Ocean hotel.

I worked there for 11 years and have many happy memories of my time there. I met my wife at the hotel and spent my wedding night there.

It will be a sad time for many when the hotel closes its doors for the last time.

I hope the new owners consider the impact this plan might have on the small businesses located in Longridge Avenue, especially the gift shop.

I also hope they will keep some of the wonderful original features of the hotel.

These include the Seven Sisters located in the main dining room and the beautiful marble seahorse under the carpet in the main entrance hall.

In the past few years the holiday habits of many in the UK have changed and I can see why Grand Hotels need to sell the Ocean.

I just hope the new owners respect its history.

-Mr N Watts, Peacehaven