The unusual Hastings fisherman's huts on the sea front in Sussex England have been uncovered for what they really are.
Originally for the use of mending fishing nets they have taken on a more sinister use. At one time the fishermen could make a reasonable living from catching and selling cod from the English Channel, now the cod have all but dried up other means of making a living has to be found.
Striptease hits Hastings.
Every night inside the huts the fishermen can be seen acting out the 1066 battle of Hastings in the nude. King Herald II can easily be distinguished by his helmet and his faithful followers by there sharpened weapons.
Although the huts are small at ground level the unusual height of the huts means a three tier seating arrangement allows up to twenty people to see the show at each performance.
One fisherman who chooses to remain anonymous said, "We had a hell of a job getting rid of the smell of fish, some of the ladies said it put them off". Another one time fisherman said "We take it in turns as to who plays Duke William of Normandy, nobody really wants to play the French lead man, we usually decide with a toss up"
The shows have been a real success and now the fishermen intend to help raise money to save the pier at Hastings which needs a great deal of renovation by performing Punch and Judy shows on the beach during the summer ... Completely naked.
A local councillor has requested we make no jokes about Punch and Judy and the policeman's truncheon. AS IF!!!
