Welcome to That Was The Year That Was, a review of an eventful 2015, as compiled by MICK HOWES and MARK BOGGIS. In the final part, we look back at some of the stories making the headlines in The Journal last December.
Brave Adele is town's star – Adele Bellis was crowned the Overall Star as she won the Stars of Lowestoft and Waveney award for fighting back from an acid attack. The terrible attack left her disfigured for life – but the way Adele fought back won the hearts of the Lowestoft community. The 23-year-old also scooped the Outstanding Bravery Award and has had to undergo continuous treatment since the incident in August last year, which followed an abusive relationship. Four men were jailed for 40 years for the attack on the beautician.
Factory site hopes – New life could be breathed into the former Zephyr Cams factory site in south Lowestoft after major proposals were submitted.
The planning application for the redevelopment of a six-acre derelict factory site in Lowestoft, which has stood vacant for more than 10 years, proposes the demolition of the large two-storey factory building and structures – to be replaced by four retail units, one café unit and a flexible retail/restaurant unit with associated car parking.
Threat of dog ban – Proposals outlined by the town council aimed at making the Southwold beach more 'family-friendly' – could see dogs banned from a portion of the beach and dog walkers asked to keep their pets on leads on the promenade. The proposals are still up for consultation, but if they do come into force, it would be the first such order made by Waveney District Council, on behalf of the town council.
Town sign restored – Mayor Stephen Ardley and deputy mayor Nick Webb unveiled the newly restored Lowestoft Town sign at its former location on the green at the north end of the historic High Street.
The sign depicts parts of the maritime history of Lowestoft.
Catch of the day – More than 100 anglers, dressed as Santas, lined the seashore at Lowestoft beach in the wind and rain to take part in a charity match. The anglers were hoping to net more than just fish at the competition, which was held in aid of the Make a Wish Foundation.
Christmas Day swim – Unseasonably warm weather brought hundreds of people out onto local beaches for the traditional Christmas Day swim. In Lowestoft nearly 300 took part, running down the South Beach in fancy dress in front of thousands of spectators. The December 25 dip at Southwold saw swimmers sponsored in aid of charity where they received a medal for their efforts.
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