I am very sorry to see that the new owners of the Hotel Du Vin in Brighton have removed the seagulls that used to hang from the ceiling of the cocktail bar.
A journalist chum of mine told me that she hates the word "iconic", feeling that it overused. However, in this particular instance, I will risk her ire; by stating categorically that the seagulls were iconic and very much part of the bar contributing to its quirky ambience.
More to the point:
- Seagulls are as much a part of Brighton as fish and chips.
- Brighton and Hove Albion, the local football team, are nicknamed "The Seagulls".
- By ditching the seagulls, the hotel is in effect ditching its connection to Brighton itself.
- The bar, sans seagulls, now looks and feels like a soulless barn.
Bring back the seagulls!
