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Famous Bognorians

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Who are your favourite famous Bognorians?

Here’s a few to be going on with…

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Bucge: The original Bognorian and founder of Bucgan’ora in 680 AD
King George V: The "Regis" in Bognor Regis was added in 1929 after King George V spent three months recuperating in the town from a serious illness. His stay significantly elevated the town's profile.
Sir Richard Hotham: Often considered the founder of Bognor Regis as a seaside resort. In the late 18th century, he envisioned and developed the area as a genteel bathing place for high society.
William Blake: The celebrated poet, painter, and printmaker lived in nearby Felpham (just outside Bognor Regis) from 1800 to 1803.
Billy Butlin: The founder of the famous Butlin's holiday camps, Billy Butlin opened his first "Recreation Shelter" in Bognor in 1932, followed by the Butlin Zoo and eventually the well-known holiday camp.
Robert Smith (The Cure): The frontman of the iconic band The Cure is reported to have lived in the Aldwick Bay Estate in Bognor Regis.
Tony Hancock: The renowned comedian and actor starred in "The Punch and Judy Man" (1963), much of which was filmed on location in Bognor Regis, including the pier and various streets.
Mary Wheatland: A Victorian woman famous in Bognor Regis for managing bathing machines on the seafront and for her life-saving exploits.
Bill Nighy: The acclaimed actor has recent associations with Bognor Regis, notably attending a fundraising event in nearby Felpham for its post office.
Phil Turner: Owner of the world famous Turner’s Pies, Phil starred in 2024 final of The Apprentice. Narrowly missing out on the last slice, he still has his fingers in many pies.

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Sir Richard Hotham

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