1934 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1930-1939
06 Jan 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Big Buses in Narrow Lane
"Anxiety over the possibility of large buses being introduced on the village routes in the district was expressed at the meeting of the Dartford RDC on Tuesday. A letter was received from the Traffic Commissioner for the metropolitan area informing the council that application had been made by the London Passenger Transport Board to operate 30 seater single-deck omnibuses between Northumberland Bottom (Tollgate End) and Hartley Hill. Certain sections of the route already covered by Messrs Enterprise 20 seater single-deck buses were very narrow, particularly the length from Hartley Hill to the terminus south of Hartley Hill, part of which, it appeared, was restricted to vehicles with seats for no more than 15 persons..... Regarding the first route, the surveyor, Mr C H Webb stated that the service of 30 seater buses at Church Road, Hartley would be a danger to pedestrians and other traffic..... The council accepted a motion formally objecting to the introduction of large buses...."
13 Jan 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Proposed new bus routes
Joint Longfield/Southfleet meeting regretted end of services run by H W Howells of Bean and Enterprise. They said the Gravesend - Ash route was worse than before.
Funeral of Martha Green
Aged 74 of Kent Road, leaves husband, one daughter and two sons. Funeral at Longfield
House burgled at Fawkham
"Burglars who broke into Knowle House, the home of Miss I Grieves of Fawkham, ignored a trunk full of valuables, but took away all Miss Grieves' spare clothing and dresses. Only one coat was left. Miss Grieves was out visiting her brother when the burglary occurred. The upstairs rooms were ransacked. All the stolen articles were evidently put into a large suitcase which was also missing. A neighbour who lives some distance away, saw a man carrying a large suitcase come out of Miss Grieves' drive, and walk down the road, where a car was waiting. Miss Grieves first knew of the burglary when she returned home just after 9 o'clock, to find the side door open"
20 Jan 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Will
Amy Eliza Gibson of Langley, Ash Road left estate worth £12,725. House left to Eleanor Dewar "who nursed my son Fenton during his recent illness."
Hearts of Oak Lodge
(Hartley Oddfellows) "Members entertained more than 100 children to tea in the WI Hall on Saturday. Mr Will Thorne, the london entertainer, delighted the children with his living marionettes, conjuring etc., as did Mr Douglas with his talking doll.. Mr George Hornby spoke. Mr A Blackwell impersonating Father Christmas gave every child a present. Others assisting were Mr and Mrs Munn, Mrs Lee, A Longhurst, P Letchford, Day, L Cherry, A Blackwell." [Similar Party - KM 19/1/35]
Hartley Players - Burlesque
Review of the pantomime. A lot of jokes about Hartley people that the reviewer didn't understand as they weren't local.
21 Jan 1934 Reynolds's Newspaper
"Myths" Persist
(Letter to paper) "In spite of the fact that liberty of speech is one of the privileges upon which in this country we pride ourselves, there is one topic of outstanding importance upon which we are not allowed to speak at any rate in the public press. There are many people today, both lay and medical, including eminent pathologists, who are convinced that the theory of the bacterial origin of disease is based upon conclusion that demand reinvestigation in the light of present day knowledge, and who regard with grave misgiving the practice of vaccine and serum therapy. Medical and other myths in past ages persisted for hundreds of years, to the grievous detriment of health and well being, because noone was able to question them. We are in like case today. Gerard W Bancks MA Cantab, Longfield Kent."
[As far as I can tell, Rev Bancks had no medical qualifications, but he had just published a book on the subject with similar controversial views "The Mystery of Disease". It seems he was an anti-vaxxer who made untrue statements about the success of vaccines in reducing bubonic plague in India. It appears he also didn't believe that bacteria caused disease, or at least if people weren't suffering from some kind of internal putrefication.]
26 Jan 1934 Dartford Chronicle
London Passenger Transport Board
Bus services taken over by LPTB, fare to Green from Longfield increased by 2d to 3d
03 Feb 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Contractor's Case
"Frank Bayntum, a building contractor of Highfield, Hartley who was summoned in connection with £3 4s 6d arrears under the Acts in respect of a workman named Thomas Lanham, was ordered to pay the sum and 12s 6d costs." [This related to unpaid Employer's National Insurance]
Funeral of Emily Goodwin
Of The Sidings, Longfield Hill. Leaves husband and several children, one son living in Africa.
Cyclist Hurt
"Albert John Brigden, 17, of Rose Cottage, Westwood, Southfleet is detained in the King Edward Avenue Hospital as the result of a collision between his push cycle and a car at Whitehill, Longfield on Monday. He is believed to have a fractured skull."
17 Feb 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Women Conservatives
Annual meeting of Hartley branch. They have 253 members. Miss Green (chairman), Mrs Welch (Vice Chairman) other officers Mrs Jones, Miss Ada Harry, Miss Eira Baker and Miss Armstrong.
Fell down Stairs
"Mrs W Smith aged 79 of Essex Road fell down the stairs and broke her collar bone last week. She is progressing favourably.
Divorce Case
Anna Hawkins, from Germany, now in domestic service at Longfield granted decree nisi on grounds of husband's adultery.
Houses for sale
"Freehold houses, course construction, completed end March; 7 room etc, hot and cold water; electricity, good gardens; garage space; 3 minutes Fawkham Station and buses; 22 miles London. Apply Adams, Rosemary [18 Kent Road], Longfield"
Slates for Sale
"2,000 second hand slates, 20 x 10 in perfect condition; £15 per 1,000. Edwards, Longfield, Kent."
23 Feb 1934 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
The Stoep for Sale
"Well built freehold two storied modern bungalow residence, with 4 bedrooms, bathroom, 2 reception rooms etc, loggia, occupying a charming country position with orchard and garden grounds of about 2¾ acres…. Carter Law & Leech will submit the above to auction on Thursday, March 22nd 1934 at 3pm at the Royal Bell Hotel, Bromley.
24 Feb 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Archaeology from the Air
"More of the early history of Kent may be revealed by means of aerial photographs according to archaeologists' evidence of prehistoric sites in the county. This was the conclusion of Mr R L Jessup, who lectured to the Maidstone Natural History and Philosophical Society..... Mr Jessup declared that although aerial phototgraph had come more to the fore in recent years, it was by no means as new as some oeple would have one believe. The first aerial photographs were taken in the 19th century from ballloons. Before the Great War considerable experiments had been acrried out with the use of box kites carrying cameras. In 1890 and 1891 attempts were make to use aerial photography in India. But it was not unti the war that a great development took place. The new era came along in 1922 and 1923 when certain trench markings were shown on photgraphs taken near Winchester and of Stonehenge which revealed certain things....... In many cases, he said, a trench or a mound could only be detected by its shadow, so that photos taken at sunset and sunrise were particularly useful. In other instances a site which had been ploughed over was invisible from the ground, but owing to the fact that different quality of the soil affected certain crops which might be growing on it such as wheat or barley, the line of earthworks and ditches, of mounds formations of walls and even of postholes, could be detected from the markings of crops. Subsequent excavation proved the truth of the markings recorded by the air photos....."
24 Feb 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Obituary of Rev Bancks
"The residents of Hartley have sustained a severe loss by the sudden death at his home at the Rectory, Hartley, of the Rev Charles Gerard Winstanley Bancks MA aged 76, who was for 32 years Rector of the Parish. A native of Oxford, Mr Bancks was appointed Deacon at Lincoln in 1879, and priest at St Albans in 1882. He curacies include 3 years at Gedling, Notts; 2 years at Walthamstow; 2 years at Sutton Valance, and 6 years as curate in charge at Green Street Green, from which he took up the duties of Rector at Hartley in 1902. Mr Bancks was an eminent author. The Rector was also interest in archaeology, having a fine collection of antiques. He had been a member of the Kent Archaeological Society. Mr Bancks had been in failing health for several weeks, and had to give up his duties on Ash Wednesday. He leaves a daughter, his wife having died several years previous."
Paper of 3/3/34 reports on the funeral "The tiny church was filled with residents, and the church path and road outside were thronged with mourners, as the cortege passed into the church. On all sides was ample testimony of hte high esteeem in which Mr Bancks was held by every member of the community..." Bishop of Rochester in attendance. Paper also reports "irony of fate" that he won a newspaper competition for a dream story just after his death.
Items for sale
"Bean Sticks, Pea Boughs, Poles etc - Smith, Station Road, Longfield"
28 Feb 1934 Evening News
Lorry Driver Burned
"George Samuel Standing, of Finborough Road, Kensington, was driving in his lorry in Springhead Road, Northfleet today when the lorry caught fire. Mr Fred Rogers of Bay Lodge, Ash Road, Hartley (Kent) and his mate John Bennett of New Barn, Longfield, who were in a lorry following, saw the flames and went to the rescue of Standing, who had his foot caughtin the floor boards. At considerable risk to themselves tehy dragged him out just before the flames got to the petrol tank. The lorry was badly damaged before the flames were subdued by Northfleet Fire Brigade. Sanding was taken to Gravesend Hospital with severe burns and shock."
03 Mar 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fancy Dress Dance
"Fancy dresses of all kinds were worn by dancers at Hartley Fancy Dress Dance on Saturday." Picture of Miss E Griggs and Mr D Sleep, Miss J Rivers and Mr J Hitchcock, Misses Noreen and Jean Lilley.
10 Mar 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Parish Church
"The Rev T Pearman Stevens, who has been temporarily apointed to All Saints' Hartley, took the services on Sunday."
Hockey
Hartley beat Gravesend County Old Girls 2nd XI 5-0 .
Sixteen candidates: three others - Longfield Parish Council Election Farce
(1) Parish meeting attended by 16 election candidates, the clerk and 3 others! Longfield Hill candidate outvoted. Elected: Capt F E Crick (16), Capt C E Bretton (15), A G Letchford (14), A E Potter (13), H G Brazier (13), F R Langford (10), N Mascall (9). Mr Mascall tied with T H Dalton, but won by the chairman's casting vote (B W Wheeler). (2) Meeting want more council houses in Longfield, It was said local people were put off applying for a house because they got offered one in Darenth or Swanley not Longfield. (3) South Suburban Gas company say they won't be coming to Longfield, unless there is big development.
1934/35 Rates
Dartford RDC 7s 2d in the £ (no change). Special rates includes Longfield 3d.
17 Mar 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Conservative Meeting
AGM of Men's and Women's Hartley branches. "A long discussion took place relating to future headquarters, and three resolutions were passed outlining the policy to be adopted: promising support to the Company recently formaed by the Constitutional Club, in view of the fact it had guaranteed a permanent home for the Association; also to ask the directors of hte Hartley Constitutional Hall Ltd to indicate their intentions regarding the hall, oras an alternative to suggest that the Company should go into voluntary liquidation; to ask if the directors would redeem at par shares held by the Association in their company."
24 Mar 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) West Kent Electric Co will not reduce prices as they say Hartley is unprofitable at present. (2) Buses, many complaints about fares and times.
Advert - Experienced Tutor
Oxford Honours (MA), prepared to coach for ANY examination school or university, in History, Economics, English etc; given moderate brains, success guaranteed; available March 26th - April 25th. Apply - Smith, Whitehaven [Stack Lane], Hartley, Longfield."
31 Mar 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Agricultural Co-operative Society
"Record turnover and dividend were announced at the annual meeting on Monday last. The report of the committee showed that the society had cleared the mortgage on the store and was free of debt...."
Cow for Sale
"Pedigree Jersey Cow with heiffer calf [.....] in every way; vet invited; 20 guineas. Barnard, [Copthorne, Ash Road], Hartley. Phone Longfield 8"
06 Apr 1934 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
Local News in Brief
"Double decker bus, converted into bungalow; newly decorated; splendid condition; cheap for quick sale - seen at Sunnymead, Hartley Bottom, Hartley, near Longfield, Kent."
21 Apr 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
New Church
"The work on the building of the new Congregational Church began this week, and it is expected that the foundation stone will be laid early in June."
Hartley Players in 'Hawk Island'
"Producer handicapped by weaknesses in cast. The Hartley Players disappointed me a little by their presentation of Howard Irving Young's play 'Hawk Island' in the Hartley Constitutional Hall last week. The performance was hardly up to the standard of the previous shows staged by this talented company......"
Longfield Funerals
(1) Dorothy Sales, 27 of Pinden, married with one child. (2) George Wooding of Martindown, Hartley Bottom Road, one of the floral tributes was from 'his workmates, Borough of Southwark' [tip]
28 Apr 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Fly tipping at Ash
Mr F Goodwin complained at Parish Council that houses from Ash Street and the Council Houses dump rubbish on his land. He thought the council ought at least to collect refuse from their land.
05 May 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Cricket - Ground Improvements at Hartley
"During the winter months over £100 has been spent on improving the pitch and outfield at the Hartley Ground. The wicket has been marled, and the outfield thoroughly ploughed and resown….."
11 May 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Hartley House to let
Semi-detached house to let - 5 rooms - £1 per week; House for sale - 5 rooms, l acre land - £695
12 May 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
Parish council decide to oppose Sevenoaks Rural Council's proposal for mains drainage.
Beehives for sale
"Four beehives and all applicances, good condition, what offers? Wood Hatchlands [Blue Firs], Hartley Hill, Longfield.
Re-routing of buses
Advert with new bus map from London Transport, to start 16/5/34. New routes 423 Swanley - Dartford - Longfield - Meopham Hook Green (replacing route 23 Swanley - Dartford and 491 Dartford - Hook Green). 451 Gravesend - Betsham - Longfield - Hartley Hill (formerly 451 and 489 (part)), 452 Dartford - Longfield - Fawkham - West Kingsdown (new route), 459 Dartford - Longfield - Ash Anchor & Hope (formerly 459), 489 Gravesend - Betsham - Longfield - Ash White Swan (formerly parts 489 and 490), 490 Gravesend - New Barn - Longfield Hill (formerly 452). All buses run daily except 452 which is weekends only.
Wedding of Mr R E Corder
At St James Plumstead. Robert Corder was from Stoney Corner, Meopham, he "attended Longfield School, and was for several years employed at Longfield Post Office as messenger and postman before being transferred to Bexleyheath."
18 May 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Dr Marsden leaving Hartley
Dr Marsden is moving to Shrewsbury, in practice at Hartley since 1926
19 May 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Meeting
(1) "West Kent Electric Company regret that techncial difficulties prevented the extension of the electricity supply beyond the church. (2) London PTB promise changes to fares. (3) 21 footpaths identified by committee. Messrs Gray and Nairn proposed adding the footpath from Manor Drive to the cross path from Hartley Wood to the Railway. (4) Capt Webster says that due to ill health he is no longer able to look after the War Memorial.
Child kicked by horse
"While playing on Fawkham Green on Saturday, David King aged 2 of Church Road, Hartley was kicked on the head by a horse and was detained in the King Edward Avenue Hosptial, Dartford."
Paper of 16/6/34 has report of inquest. Of Fairview, Church Road. "The child was the son of Henry Thomas William King, a greengrocer and accustomed to leading the horse which drew his father's van. On May 12th, Mr and Mrs King were serving customers on Fawkham Village Green, when the horse shied and David, who was sitting in the frong, fell under the animal's hoofs and wsa stamped on. Henry Thomas William King, father, said the horse shied at a ball which came from somewhere and David fell beneath its hoofs. Rose King the mother said it was quite an accident. Dir A N F Critchley of the King Edward Avenue Hospital, said the cause of death was cerebral abscess and neumonia following a depressed fracture of the skull"
Hay crop
Wanted. Someone to cut, make and stack about 100 acres hay. Fulford, New house Farm, Hartley, Longfield."
26 May 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Wants More Buses
"Residents of Longfield Hill, Longfield and Hartley are up in arms over the bus services operated by the London Passenger Transport Board in that district. So great is the feeling that these services are inadequate that Mr F J Bartholemew acting in conjuction with the Rector of Longfield has called a protest meeting to be held in the Longfield Schools tonight (Friday).
The residents' main grievance is that the Board has revised the timetable since it took over the services without any consideration of the circumstances of the residents. The former service, it is said, provided 19 buses to Longfield from Gravesend and 20 into Gravesend per day, and now, with the revised service there is only 8 out and in per day; one every 2 hours, an dthe last bus from Gravesend is 8.51pm. Another sore point with the residents is that the conductors will not allow standing passengers in the bus, with the result that time after time people have had to wait 2 hours for the next bus. 'The instance of the 7 years old boy who had to wait from 3 to 7 o'clock before he could catch a bus from Southfleet schools to Longfield Hill shows the state of the present service,' said Mr Bartholemew to a KM representative. The new company he said, was trying to enforce special stopping places, which were not clearly marked, and thus stranger to the district could not find them. The convenience of the people had not been considered, and instead of making it a public service it wsa being turned into a public disservice, and every day the feeling in the district was getting stronger. 'We meanto fight and keep on fighting,' said Mr Bartholemew. 'We have got to work fast, because the Company is bringing out a new timetable on July 1st and if we want an alteration we must get it sanctioned before that date. In any case,' he added, 'we will have a proper service, and trouble will be nade until we do.'
Residents in the Longfield district, said Mr Bartholemew, point out that the tradespeople of Gravesend would suffer considerably if hte present service was kept on, an dhtey hope that the Chamber of Trade will take up the matter. The KM understands that the matter has already been brought to the notice of the Gravesend Chamber of Trade, and will probably be considered at the next meeting of that body."
02 Jun 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Protest against Bus Services
"Residents of Longfield, Longfield Hill, Hartley, New Barn and Ash are very angry with the London Passenger Transport Board. They expressed their feelings forcibly at a crowded protest meeting held at Longfield schools on Friday last week, when a resolution calling attendtion to the alleged inadequacy of the bus services instituted on May 16th was passed.
Major F S Runcieman, who presided, said the size of the meeting indicated that something was wrong. Until recently they had 19 servcies daily to and from Gravesend. Now only 8 busesleft Longfield Hill daily for Gravesend, and the new arrangement was of little use to them, particularly as there was no surety that they could get back if a bushappened to be full. Teh farm workers were not being catered for, and there was room for complaint regarding schoolchildren's buses. Teh businessmean's buses to and from the railway station were vry much a farce. The did not wish to antagonise the Board, bu to get it to see their point of view.
Mr F J Bartholemew, at whose instigation the meeting was convened, said the matter concerned teh traders of Gravesend almost as much as the residents of that district, because they, too, would suffer under the new conditions. He proposed the following resolution: 'That this meeting of the residents of Longfield, Longfield Hill, New Barn, Hartley, Ash and Southfleet desire to offer an emphatic protest against the very niggardly service of buses to the district as at present organised by the LPTB. The number of buses in and out of Gravesend has been reduced to considerably less than half of the service hitherto obtaining to Longfield Hill, and much hardship has been imposed upon users compelled, owing to full buses, to wiat another 2 hours because of a strict enforcement of the no standing rule. The circuitous route taken also operates to their disadvantage. Apparently no consideration whatever has been given to afford quick shopping facilities in Gravesend, as no-one can nowget out to Gravesend, do the shopping and return in time for the mid-day meal.
The former owners, proceeded Mr Bartholemew had enough sense to run enough buses during the hours when they were most needed. One of hte residents had sent a letter of protest to the Superintendent of the LPTB, and he had replied that hte revised service to Longfield Hill was more than adequate (laughter). A voice: I should like him to live here and see if it is. Mr Bartholomew said there were no extra buses duirn ghe weekends, and the vehicles often became full of short fare passengers in Gravesend, with the result that people in outlying districts could not get on. There was a case, also, of Ken Woodward, a schoolboy aged 7, who was refused admission to the 3pm and 5pm buses from Southfleet School, and had to wiat until 7pm. It seemed to him that some young University man sat down in an office at Reigate and arranged the services according to his obsession for mathematical beauty and arithmetical prcision, and without any consideration of the requirements of the users.
Miss Burch said that many people were compelled to walk to Ash from Longfield, while the school children there had to leave school earlier in order to catch the bus. Later buses were needed for people who went to theatres in Gravesend and the Seaside. Mr W G Benson, who seconded the resolution, suggested that it should be sent to the LPTB, the Minister for Transport, the Members of Parliament for the district, their representatives on the Dartford Rural District Council and the local authorities. This was agreed. A lady stated that the buses to and from the station were wholly inadequate. Mr Bartholomew said that as new timetables cme into operation on July 1st there was no time to waste. Mr D T R Gray said he had ascertained that is was the duty of the Transport Board to act in liaison with the Southern Railway, but they knew from bitter experience that hte buses neither met the trains nor 'fed' them. In fact, a bus left the station just before the arrival of a train!" Committee formed, someone queried whether they were regular bus users [at least three of them were probably not] the reply was, not if they could help it.
Poultry farming
"I was told that a Hartley poultry keeper paid £5 for 100 eggs from America but only a dozen chicks were hatched."
09 Jun 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Gravesend Hospital
In 1933 it treated 6 inpatients and 34 outpatients from Hartley costing £60; 5 inpatients and 11 outpatients from Fawkham costing £43. [From edition of 16/6/34] 17 inpatients and 96 outpatients from Longfield costing £168.
Longfield Council Hurt
As organisers of bus protest didn't consult the parish council, the council want nothing to do with it. They did hear that some of the buses have been retimed to better align with train times. Dartford RDC to support protest. Cllr C S Bignell said they have taken off the decent buses and replaced them with ancient stock.
Stone Laying at Hartley
"The ceremony of laying the foundation stones at the Congregational Church at Hartley took place on Saturday, when a service was held outside the new church, which is in courese of construction. Nearly 200 attended, among them Mr George Day JP CC and Mrs Day. The Rev E J Barson of Penge Congregational Church presided, supported by Rev Arthur Haig RN, Secretary of the Kent Congregational Association, Rev A M Brakenrig BA BD Rocheseter, Rev Herbert Kenward, commissioner for church extension.
It was announced that the total cost of the building would be about £1,300 and that of this sum about £900 had been raised. An appeal for further financial assistance was made and an additional £70 was collected. Two foundation stones were laid, the first by Mrs W H Routly on behalf of hte Kent Congregational Association, and the second by Mr S H Ellerby on behalf of the Hartley Congregational Church......" (article includes picture)
Happy village with no history
"The little village of Fawkham has no Parish Council and only one parish meting has been held in the past 14 years. It is likely that in the near future the first parish meeting for many years will be called, and it is possible that the residents will ask for a parish council. The meeting is to be held because the Rural Council want all the footpaths in the parish marked on a map, and a public meeting is the only way to get over the difficulty. The Rector, the Rev J T Matchett said to a KM representative 'Everything goes on smoothly and happily in the village, and there is a saying to the effect that 'happy is the place where there is no history.'"
Longfield Bus Services - Transport Board Officials Investigate
"Several developments have followed the meeting held at Longfield recently to protest against the bus services provided by the London Passenger Transport Board. An interview has taken place between representatives of the LPTB and the local committee appointed at the protest meeting. There was a very frank exchange of views, an da number of suggestions with a view to improving the services were put forward by members of the committee. These related to timing, meeting of trains and frequency. One suggestion which appeared to have a favourable reception was that the Clock Tower to Hartley Hill route be diverted to pass via New Barn as was previously the case. Careful consideration of all the points raised was promised by the Board's representatives.
It is understood that changes have already been made in the times of buses taking children to an dfrom Gravesend, to fit in with school hours. Both the local MPs, Mr I J Albery and Sir Waldron Smithers, have been in communication with teh Board on the subject of the services, and have shown a keen interest in the question. The former proprietor of the Longfield services has been interviewed by the Board and his timetables discussed. The local committee is now awaiting a communication from the Board before taking any further action....."
16 Jun 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Country Bus Services
London PTB have agreed to add 4 more services on Saturday only but will not route the 451 to Hartley Hill via New Barn. Gravesend Chamber of Commerce have complained too.
Cricket
Picture of Fawkham Cricket XI. Hartley v Park House at Hartley. Park House 63 (R Balchin 5-23) beat Hartley 18 (R James 7-8) by 45.
Longfield Off Licence
(advert) "Reffells Celebrated Gold Medal Ales - Under new management - families waited upon daily - Manager H Stay. Station Road, Longfield." [Probably 25 Station Road]
Woman Fined for Betting
"At Dartford Police Court, on Thursday, Annie Simes, 38 of Merrythought, [27] Main Road, Longfield, was fined £25 for using Merrythought for the purpos of betting, with persons resorting thereto. She was defended by Mr N T Baynes and pleaded guilty. Accused is a married woman with two children."
22 Jun 1934 Dartford Chronicle
New Rector?
All Saints - living to be offered to Rev A Godson of Speldhurst
23 Jun 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Parish Church Finds
"A very interesting report has been received by the PCC from the expert appointed to examine the wall paintings in Hartley Church. On the North side of the Chancel Arch, portions of a painting, representing a figure standing under an arch or canopy, holding a round object between outstretched hands have been found. The antiquity of this paining is very evident from the fact that it was done straight onto an uneven wall surface, and also from the discover of fragments of anohter painting on top of it. The most important find, however, has been the consecration cross, on the left of the vestry door, dating as it does from the consecration of the Church after the Cancel was built."
Cricket - I don the white coat
"On Saturday I went to see Hartley Sports Club play the Old Saxonians and they requisitioned my services as umpire! Although I had little to do, I was nearly a grease spot in the heat. It was one of the most thrilling matches I have seen, and represented a duel of youth versus age and wisdom. Youth (the old boys) proved the victors, but only by 2 runs. The villagers took first knock and compiled 62. Ambrose (pictured) whose guileful spinners had the batsmen tied up was the destructor in chief taking 5-16. He flights the ball well, pitching it quite 15 feet in the air. On the bounce it breaks tremendously, and the batsman is often easy prey for the wicketkeeper. The Old Saxonians met with early disaster, losing 3 wickets for only 2 runs. Young K Wood (pictured), a little left hander, showed the Hartley bowlers what youth could do, and with that grace peculiar to left handers, hit all round the wicket. When the last man went in to bat, the Old Boys wanted 4 to win and just managed to do the trick." Hartley v Hartley Sports. Hartley Sports 95-4 dec (R Capes 50 no, R Balchin 2-35), Hartley 110-5 (W Balchin 40, A Longhurst 35). Hartley won by 5 wickets.
Accident
"On Thursday, near Longfield CofE school, there was a collision between Ernest Blackwell, Hartley Green, riding a motorcycle, and Leonard Simes, aged 12 years of Pinden, a cyclist. Blackwell sustained a broken arm, and Simes was detained in Livingstone Hospital with injuries to a leg."
Should the village tank be banished?
Parish meeting at Farningham to decide whether to sell the tank war memorial. "Woodville" of the paper says "A tank rusting on a village geen is an offence to the eye, and no-one who cares for beauty neeed regret its going. It strikes a note of discord and symbolises nothing except the lack of good taste which the post war generation should by this time have outgrown."
Tell The World - It Pays!
Editorial praises the bus protestors who have won improvements in the service to Longfield. They hope next time the LPTB will consider local needs before making sweeping changes.
07 Jul 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Mourns Mr F W Tate
"Mr Francis W Tate of Amphion, Hartley, died on Saturday at the age of 56, after a long illness. His death cast a gloom over the village, for nobody has done more to promote the welfae of the parish. The main purpose of his life was service for others. He was tenacious in the advocacy o fhis principles, and as a keenstudent of social and economic hisotry had decided views as to what should be done to alleviate the lot of those less fortunate than himself.
He was president and one of the founders of the Hartley Literary and Debating Society. The League of Nations Union claimed his active sympathy, and he filled the role of secretary of Hartley Group. For many years he was the People's Warden of All Saints' Church.
Probably his most useful work was done as Chairman of the parish meeting, a position he held for a long period. He played a proinent part in the the agitation for electric lighting in Hartley, and only recently prosecuted with zeal the case for a reduction in local water charges. He had several disappointments, however, and his fight for a playing field under the control of the parishioners will be recalled. He urgently pressed for a practical response to the Duke of York's appeal for the provision of open spaces. The parish meeting carried the resolution, but as the result of a ballot the proposal was defeated. The failure was a bitter blow, and resulted in Mr Tate's retirement from the chairmanship. Within a year, however, he returned to office, when it was repesented to him that there was a unanimous wish that he should do so.
21 years ago, with his brother, the late Tom Fleetwood Tate, he founded the Hartley Agricultural Co-operative Society Limited. From very modest foundations he helped to build up an organisation which today has a turnover of more than £10,000 a year. In all that time he served the society in an honourary capacity.
He leaves a widow, 2 sons and a daughter. The little church of All Saints' Hartley was filled on Wednesday for the funeral service and many were unable to gain admittance. The body was interred in the grave next to that of Mr Tate's brother, the late Mr T F Tate......"
07 Jul 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Village Bus Services
"It was reported that the LPTB had agreed to operate additonal buses at Ash, Hartley and Longfield…. The chairman …. Said he understood there would be an hourly service…"
10 Jul 1934 Daily Mirror
Buses that Do not Wait
"Plight of Passengers whose train is delayed. 'Our drivers have instructions to wait up to 3 minutes at stations for important trains.' This was the reply of a London Transport official yesterday to the complaint of Mr J Chatwode of Hartley, near Longfield (Kent). In a letter to the Daily Mirror, Mrs Chatwode states: 'A bus stops at our nearest station, Fawkham, as the evening train comes in, but the driver will not wait if the train is a minute late as it is contrary to regulations.' When this point was put before the board, an official said: 'Our drivers do not necessarily wait for all trains. Often in small country districts there are not enough people coming by train to justify it. But we do give instructions that all important trains must be waited for if they are late.'"
12 Jul 1934 Daily Mirror
Watch on Travel Chiefs
"Making Voice of the Public Heard - Shopping Aid.
Gravesend and District Chamber of Trade, which had a membership of 200 shopkeepers and professional men, is to champion complaints against the London Transport Board. The Chamber is forming a committee to negotiate with the LTB and press the claims of the people resident in adjoining villages to an improved bus service. They will deal with the complaints, already reported in the Daily Mirror, that buses on station duty do not wait for passengers if the train is late, and that village shoppers in Gravesend have to wait more than 2 hours for buses.
Mr Norman Cooper, chairman of the chamber, told the Daily Mirror yesterday: 'The idea is to form a committee to watch transport interests of the public in the entire area including Gravesend, Hartley, Northfleet, Longfield, Swanscombe and nearby parishes. At a rough guess I should say the population of the area is 60,000 and we know that all living outside Gravesend have trouble in getting to and from our shops. There is a much better service to Dartford. Before the LTB acquired the monopoly of the bus transport to Gravesend we were served excellently and the residents of adjoining villages could shop in Gravesend in comfort. The totally inadequate service substituted by the LTB is causing the widest dissatisfaction. The matter will be discussed at our meeting next Tuesday and it is hoped that the first meeting of the new committee will be possible in the following week. We mean to do what we can to remedy a disgraceful state of affairs."
13 Jul 1934 Dartford Chronicle
All Saints' Rector
All Saints - some of congregation want Rev Stevens to be rector
14 Jul 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
More Bus Service Protests
Several complaints at Hartley Parish Meeting. Specifically people have to wait 15 minutes after the 18.00 train arrives, and there is no bus to enable people to catch the 9.36 train to London and it is impossible to go to Gravesend to shop and be back for lunch. "They want to know whether the bus systems, as operated by the London Transport Board must be so inelastic that they cannot meet local needs? Under the old regime the smaller owners and drivers gave a real personal service. The present 'take it or leave it' attitude is by no means a progressive step.' "
Lower Slides Poultry Farm
"By instructions from Mr R B Capes, who is quitting.... Sale by auction on the premises on Friday August 3rd 1934 at 12 o'clock by Messrs W Wood and Sons. The whole of the stock of poultry and appliances including about 1,000 head of poultry. RIR Wyandotte and cross bred. All blood tested (RIR all bred LK Pye stock). 10 laying houses, battery house, cockerel house, incubator house and office, 10 'Apex' night arks, 30 laying battery cages, 1 summit minor battery (400 chick), 'Carry on' battery, 1 50 chick battery, 'Glevum' incubators, 10 sections 'Carfew Electric Brooder', 2 'Brambell' egg grader, 1 'Hiscock' egg grader, 'summit' egg washing machines, 'Salters' egg balance, automatic spring gunes, mash mixer, galvanised iron corn bin, 9 circular bins, chaff cutter, 2 wheel hand truck, quantity wire netting (new), large quantity of egg boxes, mash hopper, drinking fountains etc. Morris Cowley Delivery Van..."
Longfield Loses Council Chairman
Funeral af Fawkham church of Captain Frederick Edward Crick (pictured) of Holmwood [41], Kent Road, aged 47, for 12 years chairman of Longfield Parish Council. List of mourners and floral tributes, which included one from staff of Rootes (Rochester).
Messrs Pilley and Talbot's new office
"Messrs Pilley and Talbot, auctioneers, house and estate agents of 163 Windmill Street, Gravesend, announce that in consequence of the extension of their business in the Hartley, Fawkham, Longfield and Meopham areas they have, for the convenience of their numerous clients, acquired premises adjoining the Post Office, Ash Road Hartley, Longfield, Kent (phone Longfield 77) for a branch office, which they purpose opening on Monday next."
The Late Miss G M Hickmott
Funeral at Longfield of Gladys Marjery HIckmott of Longfield Court, age 40. List of attendees and floral tributes. Paper of 7/7/1934 has short obituary. Youngest daughter of J J Hickmott, lived in Longfield all her life and arranged the annual Hospital Pound day. Mostly kept to herself.
4,500 Children Make Merry
Dartford Co-operative Society's fete at Central Park included children from Longfield. List of competition winners.
20 Jul 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Taxi Offence
Wilfred Alexander of Cavan - no Hackney Carriage Plate on Car
28 Jul 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bus Service Grievances - Longfield Still Protesting
Longfield Committee report "that although the arrangements for meeting the morning trains at Longfiled Station are now satisfactory, those for the evening trains are not. It also wanted to know why the buses do not run up to the station to meet the trains, as before, instead of waiting at the Railway Tavern?"
03 Aug 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Motoring Charge
Edward RJ Barlow 20 of Nil Desperandum, Merton Ave cleared of careless driving
04 Aug 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Old Rivals Clash
Cricket. "Old rivals in Hartley [Sports] and Longfield Hillfound runs so difficult to get that they mustered only 120 between them. Hartley's share of this total was 64, for they found the veteran Stoneham almost unplayable. He claimed 8-17 and has taken 15 wickets in 2 matches. Longfield were soon in trouble against the fast deliveries of Broad. At one time they had 6 wickets down for 7 runs, but vigorous hitting by A Wooding (Pictured) put a different complexion on matters. Hitting all round the wicket, he scored 41, and from one over collected 22 runs - two 6s, two 4s and a 2. R Broad returned the best analysis for Hartley with 6-17. And incidentally had the distinction of taking his 100th wicket of the season." Hartley Sports won by 8. Hartley CC 30 lost to Eynsford 66 (W Balchin 7-27) by 36.
The Late Mrs Adams
Funeral at Longfield of Mrs Alice Adams of Hillbrow, Kent Road, age 73. Member of Mothers' Union and Women's Meeting. Leaves widower and two sons.
11 Aug 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Better Bus Service for Longfield
"Residents in Longfield district are pleased that as a result of 2 months of negotiation between their local committee and the London Passenger Transport Board, the bus services have been greatly improved. Now that a new service via New Barn has been started, there are buses at approximately hourly intervals between Longfield and Gravesend. The service is thus about double what it was when the Transport Board first took over. The new service also provides the needed transport between New Barn and Southfleet Church on Sundays. Satisfactory arrangements have also been made for buses to meet trains at Fawkham Station.
Hartley, however, is not yet satisfied. The two hourly service to Gravesend still remains, and residents complain that they cannot get to Gravesend and back in the mornings to do their shopping. A direct service between New Barn and Hartley Hill is also demanded.
The district owes a great debt to Mr F J Bartholemew, who as secretary of the local committee has worked hard to impress the Transport Board with local requirements."
Essex Road Wedding
Wedding at Longfield of Thomas Jesse Crouch of Oak Cottage, [51] Essex Road, and Lilian Mabel Bennett of Sunny Cottage [37] Essex Road. Picture of bride and groom. From the list of gifts it seems they worked for Bow Arrow Hospital and Dartford Co-op.
18 Aug 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Brands Hatch Stadium - Private Company Formed
"Brands Hatch Stadium Limited, was registered as a private company on August 10th with a nominal capital of £50,000 in 5s shares. The objects are to acquire the freehold property known as Brands Hatch in the parishes of Farningham, Kingsdown and Fawkham, Kent with the messuages and motor cycle track used in connection with motorcycle racing catering; and also the freehold property known as Pescot Farm in the parishes of Longfield and Hartley, Kent, with bungalows and cottages erected in part thereof, and to carry on the business of motorcycle racing and catering etc...." Local director Henry White, Park House, Brands Hatch, Fawkham, also registered address of company.
New Company
Grooms Stores Limited, to carry on business of grocers, provision merchants etc. Directors: Ivy E Groom of Hartley Manor (chairman, £100 per annum), William H Farrant, Ivydene, Hoselands Hill (£273 per annum)
18 Aug 1934 Westerham Herald
Future of Brands Hatch - Private Company Formed
"The scene of many thrilling motorcycle races, Brands Hatch grass track, in the parishes of Farningham, Kingsdown and Fawkham, Kent will in future be controlled by a private company under the style of Brands Hatch Stadium Limited. The company was registered on August 10th, with a nominal capital of £50,000 in 5s shares. The objects are to acquire the freehold property known as Brands Hatch, together with the messuages and motorcycle track used in connection with motorcycle racing and catering; and also the freehold property known as Pescot Farm, in the parishes of Longfield and Hartley, Kent, with bungalows and cottages erected in part thereof, and to carry on the business of motorcycle racing and catering. The directors are: Henry White, Park House, Brands Hatch, Fawkham, Kent; Herbert S West, 13 Victoria Road, Bromley, Kent and Arthur Denman, 21 Wedmore Road, Greenford, Middx. The secretary is Mr Thomas Earl and the registered offices are at Park House, Brands Hatch, near Fawkham, Kent."
21 Aug 1934 Lewisham Borough News
Rambles in Kent East of the Darent
(by Harold Shelton MA (Oxon) "Between the level marshlands that border the Thames near Dartford and Greenhithe and the southern escarpment of the North Downs there is a wealth of countryside, a good part of which can be explored in a single day. The route which follows is only one of the many possible ways. It has been chosen because of the variety it offers and because it is representative of almost every type of scenery for which kent is famous.
The first 2 miles are admittedly uninteresting. Their purpose is to remove us as quickly as possible from the vicinity of the cement works which preclude any satisfying Thames-side views. Thereafter the first half is a mixture of ploughed fields and orchardlands, and the second half brings us to the summit of the North Downs plateau, where arable gives way to pasture, and the views lengthen. We end in the quiet distinction of the Darent Valley. Finally there are a numer of small villages nestling in the eroded valleys between the long downland spurs, each with its characteristic church and odd cottages.
From Dartford it is best to take a bus as far as Greenhithe crossroads, so as to avoid the monotony of the Dartford - Gravesend road. Proceeding from the crossroads for 50 yards towards Gravesend, we take the first turning on the right - Mounts Road - a sunken lane which quickly takes us uphill. Where this becomes an unfenced road giving an alluring prospect over wooded country, we branch off to the left - the second turning on the left since leaving the main road. We must follow this byway, neglecting a left hand turning, for a full mile and a half, until it enters the village of Swanscombe.
Today with its cement works and the unutterably ugly dwelling houses which lie between it and the Thames, one would not suppose that Swanscombe was a town of any distinction, save perhaps for its industries. Yet, we know that it existed long before the Norman conquest and before the neighbouring large towns had come into being. The church is a reminder of its ancient foundation. Most of the tower is of Saxon workmanship, as was the shingled spire which was unfortunately blasted by lightning at the beginning of the century. Two other points of interest are the wooden lectern of the 15th century and the Jacobean rails of the altar.
Immediately before reaching the church, at a point where the road bends left, we take a concealed turning on the right which carries us for a mile as a well defined track beside Swanscombe Park. And then finally to Watling Street, which we cross (what a magnificent 'artery' this old Roman Road has become!) and continue by another footpath opposite through an extensive plum orchard to a byway. Here we bear right to the village of Betsham, a pretty village built largely on one side of the road facing orchards.
At the crossroads we turn left, then immediately right, through a gap in the wall, and so by a paved path towards Southfleet, where the square tower of the 14th century church is a conspicuous landmark. The path takes us beside the church and into the village by the timbered church houses to a cross roads.
We follow the signpost to Hook Green. On reaching this, where the road bends right, we continue straight ahead, up an open unmade road into a land of fertile fields. At the summit of a long hill there is another signpost marked 'Footpath to Longfield' - our next objective. Nor does the country belie its name, for the fields over which this path runs seems of infinite extent.
Skirting a copse on the right we reach the top of a long slope, at the foot of which Longfield makes an attractive, if rather sombre picture. As we descend the chestnut trees in the churchyard will claim our attention, though the whole setting of the church is picturesque. This, incidently, is one of the churches which retained a timber bellcote until the end of the last century. Of still greater interest is the Rectory which lies on the hill behind the church [I think Longfield Court is meant]. Parts of this magnificent house have been scarsely altered since it was built 500 years ago.
The next mile is necessarily along a road but a pleasant one which marks the transition between the rich country of the lowlands and the barer downlands. On reaching the main road at Longfield we turn right, then take the first turning on the left towards Fawkham Station, turning right again after 50 yards [Essex Road]. So we quickly pass through the village.
Where this road meets a transverse road [Fawkham Road], we turn left and continue through the tiny village of Fawkham - a small, partly Norman Church, a large farm, 3 or 4 cottages and some more recent bungalows scattered over the beautifully timbered country where the chestnuts and the laburnum and the lilac make a gay splash of colour in the spring. Half a mile past the church we turn left, by an unsignposted road [Pennis Lane] and at a fork in front of a large house go squarely right, up a rough lane overhung with trees, over a stile and across fields to the side of a wood, which we keep on our right.
After a short distance a signpost marked 'Footpath to West Yoke' beckons us across the valley. If we follow it we must ascend the other side, then take another footpath on the right, again crossing the same valley. The shorter way is to disregard a notice of 'Private' and follow a well defined path along the right hand side of the valley, bearing right, on reaching a plantation of fir trees, and right again after passing a second warning notice.
This new path takes us through the midst of the woodlands to a road. We cross this to another footpath, bringing us in half a mile to Fawkham Green, another unsophisticated village set in a hollow of the downs.
Hence the Farningham Road takes us once more on the high ground, and after a delightful mile reaches a pont overlooking the Darent Valley with the silver streak of the Thames far to the north. At a left bend there is a footpath signposted 'To Horton Kirby', and though this path has been ploughed over, it will give us our direction to the village, which lies a long mile to the north beside the banks of the Darent. If a longer route is desired, a quiet byway can be followed along the valley to South Darenth, so adding a furhter one and a half miles to the ramble.
Total walking distance, to Horton Kirby, 12 miles, to South Darenth, 13½ miles."
25 Aug 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Gardeners' Feat - Best Show for 14 Years Despite Drought
Pictures of A Couchman and G V Lynds the cup winners. The Longfield Parish Cup for best collection of wild flowers by schoolchildren was won by Violet Martin of Longfield School, having been won by Hartley schoolchildren the previous 3 years. Also featured children's sports and a fun fair.
30 Aug 1934 Banbury Guardian
New Boys Preparatory School for Banbury
Aubrey B Raymond-Barker, a teacher at St Louis School is taking over as head and moving it to Bodicote Grange, Banbury. Article says he "was educated at Mount St Mary's College, Chesterfield,and left there at the outbreak of the war. He was with the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Air Force. In 1916 he was captured and was in a German Prisoner Camp 28 months. After the war he remained in the service till 1924. He started his educational work by assisting his brother at the Raymond-Barker School, Hartley, Longfield, Kent, and since 1930 has worked under Mr Reginald Jebb MA at St Louis, Hawkesyard..." [From the schools their pupils won places to, it would appear St Louis was a Roman Catholic School]
31 Aug 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Local Marriage
Marriage of Alice Hollands [Probably Alice Mary Hollands, born Ash 1905]
01 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley's Call to Catholics
Picture of St Francis de Sales RC Church with history that has appeared before.
Vacant Kent Benefices
Following parish vacancies, Vicar of Blean (benefice worth £544 pa), Rector of St Martin Canterbury (£259), Vicar of Elham (£457), Herne Hill (£373), Vicar of St Luke Ramsgate (£418), Otham and Willington (£393), Vicar of All Saints Chatham (£527), Yalding (£1,476), "In the Rochester diocese Hartley is vacant through the death of the Rev C G W Bancks who had been vicar [sic] for 32 years. Mr E J King is the patron, and the net value is £277. Of the 14,000 benefices in England, only 264 are worth £1,000 a year or upwards." The Parochial Church Council has the right to tell the patron what sort of minister they want but can't name someone.
[although Hartley is a relatively poor benefice, the £259 income would still be in the top 10% of earners in 1937 according to the Inland Revenue figures]
07 Sep 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Pigeons
Broomfield, Ash Rd - stray pidgeon found
Motorbike Accident
Motorcycle accident to James Balchin (29) of Red House
08 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Garage Fire
"Fire broke out in a garage owned by Mr and Mrs N Miller of Milenroy, Church Road on Monday, Longfield Brigade was called, but arrived to find that the outbreak had been extinguished with little damage. A car in the garage at the time was saved." [Presumably this is Maxwelton (San Michele) Church Road - see Dartford Chronicle 7/9/34]
Cricket
"Congratulations to Dick Broad, the Hartley Sports fast bowler, who on Sunday captured his 100th wicket for the club. Broad who hails from Cobham, also assists Dimaanchians, and he has also taken a good bag for them. Broad when not playing cricket, is a pressman. He had a trial for Kent at Canterbury earlier in the season...."
Longfield Parish Council
They are to suggest the LPTB not issue tickets under 3d for Longfield buses at Gravesend, to stop them being filled with people only going to Perry Street. Council had complained about a bus refusing to stop, which board denied. A spot check at the Green Man found all buses had stopped.
15 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley to have a Parish Council
"Hartley is to have a parish council next year. At a parish meeting on Tuesday, when Mr E J Cuff presided, a letter was received from the Kent County Council drawing attention to the Local Government Act 1933, which necessitated all parishes of over 300 inhabitants being represented by a parish council. After considerable discussion, it was decided to request the county council to defer th change until April next, thus falling into line with other parishes of a similar nature. The parish meeting funds of £50, fire boxes, hydrants and other property will be transferred to the new Parish Council. The meeting decided to write to the General Post Office requesting that two telephone kiosks be erected in the village, and also to Longfield Parish Council regarding the conidtion of the footpath to the railway station."
Fatal Crash in Cloud of Dust
"A verdict of death by misadventure was returned at an inquest at Dartford on Tuesday on James Bernard Balchin, 29 of the Red House, Hartley, a timber merchant, who was fatally injured when his motorcycle collided with a car at Farningham the previous week. Roger John Balchin, Red House Hartley, said his brother, who wore glasses, rode a motorcycle to and from his business at Croydon. Frederick George Marsden, New Cross Road SE, said he saw Balchin pull out to pass a stationary lorry, when all of a sudden there was a terrible crash. 'There was so much dust about,' added witness, 'that I could not see anything. When the dust cleared I saw the motorcyclist under the offside rear wheel of the lorry.' William Joseph Checksfield, Benenden, Pound Lane, Kingsnorth, near Ashford, said he was driving an empty cattle lorry back to Kingsnorth and pulled up at Farningham to replenish with petrol. He was getting back into the lorry when he heard a crash and saw Balchin lying under the back light. Dr R A Lovatt said Balchin had a fractured leg and death was due to toxaemia following gas gangrene. Frederick William Alderton, Abbots Wood Road, Streatham, said he was driving a car and was almost abreast of the stationary lorry when he suddenly saw the motorcyclist turning into the car. 'Almost immediately I struck him,' he added, 'it was over in a couple of seconds.'
21 Sep 1934 Sheffield Independent
Flowers for Sale
(Advert) "Wallflowers, large transplanted, Cloth of Gold, Orange Bedder, Golden Monarch, Fireking, Harbinger etc, named or mixed 3s 6d 100; Pinks, Sinkins, 2 year clumps 2s 6d dozen; carriage paid - Hendley, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
22 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Opening of Hartley Congregational Church
"Crowds of spectators assembled on Saturday outside the newly built Congregational Church in Ash Road, Hartley, for the opening ceremony, which was conducted by the Rev Frank H Wheeler DSO, ATS, Moderator of the Southern Province. The ceremony was performed by Mr George H Leavey, who said how very much he appreciated the honour they had conferred upon him and how sincere were his wishes for the future prosperity of the new church. The service was conducted by the Rev T T James MA (chairman of the Congregational Union of England and Wales) who said what a great privilege he felt it to be, to join with them on the first day of worship in the new church. The offertory for the building fund amounted to £22. Mr Frank Comont was at the organ. Arrangements for tea were in the hands of Mrs Gable, assisted by Mrs Tate, Mrs Day, Mrs Sizmur, Mrs Parkin, Mrs Shambrook, Mrs Wise and others.
About 160 people were present in the gaily decorated Constitutional Hall, presided over by Rev Arthur Haig RN (secretary of Kent Congregational Association). He said it was a privilege to be associated with a church with a history - some of their churches had 300 years behind them. But it was a still greater privilege to make history, to look forward, as Hartley did, to writing a page which was so far unmarred by any mistake. He referred with gratitude and admiration to the devoted and disinterested work of Mr S Ellerby and of the many other willing helpers whose efforts had that day been crowned with success.
A number of messages of congratulation and good wishes were read, including letters from Mr Harold Andrews, Mr Wells Thatcher (Vicar's Warden), the Rev T Pearman Stevens, and Mr Taylor of the Vines.
The Rev Frank Wheeler welcomed the opportunity of rejoicing with them on the beautiful little building they had achieved and hoped that the spirit of friendliness which had been with them in their work in the old building, might go with them into the new. The Rev Ernest J Barson of Penge, reminded his hearers of the close association between his own church and the new church at Hartley. A few members of his congregation established themselves in Hartley some years ago, and had been successful in gatering together a body of people of like minds to themselves. He hoped that Hartley would keep in close touch with the churches round about, and suggested that deputations might be sent to swell the congregation at Hartley, and 'to warm their faith at the fire of your fellowship.' The Reve W H Wrigley of Sittingbourne brought greetings from the 30 churches in his district. The Rev Herbert Kenward (Commissioner for Church Extension) congratulated those responsible on their achievement. The total cost of the building was £1,325 and of this £1,025 had already been raised. He urged that every effort should be made to pay off the remaining £300.
Mr E J Cuff, People's warden of the Parish Church, expressed his gratitude to the Congregational Church for the beautiful building they had caused to be erected. He hoped that the happy relations that had existed between the two churches would long continue, and wished the new venture every success. Mr S Ellerby, secretary of the Congregational church told the story of how the church at Hartley came into being. Among those directly responsible for its formation, he mentioned Mr V Delf, Mr A H Edward and Mrs Gable. He expressed the gratitude of all concerned to the Rev J Eames for his never failing kindliness and help. Mr F Comont, chairman of the Hartley Congregational Church Council, expressed his gratitude to all who had contributed to the success of the afternoon." (includes picture of church)
22 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Founding of Hartley Country Club
"The Hartley Constitutional Club has formed itself into a company registered as the Hartley Country Club Limited, and as soon as soon as the new quarters are ready, will admit ladies to membership. It will be purely social and sporting club and non-political. The Hartley Sports Club, it is understood, will later join forces with the new venture. A most attractive building is being constructed on the Club Playing Field and is expected to be ready for use in November, when the premises at present occupied will be vacated. The lcub house will consist of carrd and reading room, a spacious billiards room, refreshment and committee rooms, and apartments for the use of lady members. A verandah will run the length of the building, from which games will be viewd. The hall will have a large dance floor and will seat over 200 for dramatic performances, concerts etc. Comfortable dressing room and a shower bath will be provided and hte whole will be centrally heated. The playing field is a valuable acquisition, situated in the centre of the village, about 10 acres in extent, and in delightful surroundings. Part of the ground had been used during the past 4 years for cricket, hockey and lawn tennis. The whole area will gradually be developed, as plans for the future include a bowling green, hard tennis court and miniature golf. Funds which have enabled this ambitious scheme to be carried out have been raised by the issue of loan stock bearing interest at 5 per cent per annum, and the greater part has alrady been subscribed by members and supporters. The ordinary capital of the company is in 5 shilling shares and each member must hold at least one share."
29 Sep 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Co-Operators Forge Ahead
AGM of Hartley Agricultural Co-Operative Society. 12 new members bringing total to 191. Sales for last half year were £5,157. Mr F J Bartholemew of Longfield has taken over as chairman following the death of F W Tate.
The Late Mrs Harker
Funeral at Longfield of Barbara Gladys Harker, 47, of Copse Side, Hoselands Hill, who died after a short illness. Her husband had died 2 years previously.
05 Oct 1934 Dartford Chronicle
New Rector
Rev T P Stevens to be new rector 2/11/1934 - induction
Disaster Fund
Whist drive for Gresford Colliery Distress Fund
06 Oct 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) To ask Dartford RDC to repair footpath at Elm Terrace [Station Road]. (2) Irregularity of street lighting being looked into by electricity company. (3) Mr Langford said bus drivers at Gravesend now shout 'Longfield and Southfleet passengers first' to prevent Perry Street passengers boarding first. //
Glories of Council House Gardens
"..... An outstanding feature of the Council's estates is the flower garden of Mr Tatlock, 7 Valley Villas, [219 Main Road] Longfield, which is described as the prettiest and best arranged garden in the whole district...." However prize for Longfield went to Mr A C Heaver, 6 Valley Villas [217 Main Road].
Lucky Children of Ash
"On Saturday the children's play field at Ash, was opened by Baroness Meyern-Hohenburg, who granted the use fo the ground for the village children for the next 7 years....." Details of fete stalls and children's sports.
Teacher wanted
"Good class sensible girl (over 20) wanted daily for little boy 4, girl 5, first lessons. Mrs Stickland, The Old Downs, Longfield, Kent."
13 Oct 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Ash Parish Council
(1) They discussed whether to join the Dartford RDC Fire scheme, but decided instead to install 3 public fire extinguishers. (2) Complaints about disturbance of the Sabbath from motorcycle racing at Brands Hatch, although Mr Storer said they shouldn't interfere with young people's enjoyment. They were told Dartford RDC was dealing with it.
Funeral of Mr Jenkins
James Jenkins, aged 68, of Mabel Cottages.
20 Oct 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hall's Revenue Still Falling
25th annual meeting of Longfield Village Hall. Mr H C Hickmott secretary said loan and overdraft had increased by £16 and they may have to increase fees. Thrift Club thriving and is nearly 200 strong. Mr C Wilkins thought Hartley Hall was "far ahead of Longfield and were securing lettings that might easily have come to Longfield."
Rector of Hartley
"After a considerable interregnum, the rectory of Hartley, Longfield... has been filled by the nomination of the Rev T Pearman Stevens MA, Curate of Tenterden, in charge of Smallhythe 1929-31, and subsequently vicar of Chacombe in the Peterborough Diocese."
Late Mrs Inkpen
Obituary in paper of 13/10/1934. Ada Inkpin of 2 Walter Cottages, [49] Kent Road, aged 59. Leaves 2 sons. Funeral held in Longfield Bethel.
27 Oct 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield obituaries
(1) James Peter Rowland of Longfield Siding, in his sleep, aged 68. Was signalman on Southern Railway and member of St John's Ambulance. Living at Longfield Siding for 32 years. Leaves invalid widow and 3 daughters. (2) Elizabeth Rich of Essex Road, 65. Leaves husband and 6 sons.
'Fly Train' on Fire - Rubbish Destruction starts too soon!
"A goods train ran into Fawkham Station on Tuesday with one of its trucks blazing. The station staff quickly got to work with a hose and after a short time the fire was extinguished. The train was what is locally known as the 'fly train' carrying refuse from the Borough of Southwark to the Longfield Dump. The street rubbish was set on fire too soon!"
Keston Nursery
"For sale: Choice greenhouse Chrysanthemums, trade supplied. Keston, Church Road, Hartley, near Longfield."
03 Nov 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Will
Miss Gladys Marjorie Hickmott of Longfield Court left property worth £33,786 with net personality of £33,716.
Hartley Rector Instituted
"A large congregation saw the Bishop of Rochester, Rt Rev M I Smith, institute the Rev T P Stevens MA to the Rectory of Hartley in the parish church on Monday night....." Reception held in WI Hall featuring Alex Kirke, one of Sir Thomas Beecham's first violins.
Chased through three villages
"An exciting story of the chase of a suspect through Ash, Hartley and Fawkham was told at Dartford Police Court on Tuesday, when William Willett of Mason Bridge Road, Earlswood, Surrey, was sentenced to 3 months' hard labour for assaulting a child of 8 living at Hartley Bottom. He was also fined £5 and disqualified from holding a licence for 3 years for driving a lorry dangerously....." Statements from PC Wilson of Ash and Miss Eleanor Barker of Hartley who drove PC Wilson on chase. Doctor at prison said defendant was mentally deficient.
Baby Suffocated at Ash
"Mr W A Thompson, deputy coroner, held an inquest at Ash Parish Hall, on Friday last week, on Kathleen Saunders, aged 4 months, of White Swan Meadow, who was found dead in bed by her mother the previous Monday. Evidence was given by James Saunders (a dealer) and Sara Ann Saunders, the child's parents, Dr F A Harrison of Sutton at Hone and PC Hills of Longfield. It ws stated that the child slept with her mother, and the coroner recorded a verdict of suffocation by overlaying, contributed to by the child's large thymus gland."
09 Nov 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Motoring Offences
Joseph Brooks, Frank L Cox fined for driving without licence
09 Nov 1934 Bromley & West Kent Mercury
Orpington Women Conservatives
"Miss Barker of Hartley, Kent, addressed a meeting of the Orpington Women's Constitutional Association on Wednesday on 'National Defence'. She said we did not want to fight, but we had to defend our trade routes. She advocated a larger Air Force, Army and Navy...."
10 Nov 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) 7.10am bus which terminated at Green Street Green will be extended to Longfield. (2) Council say they need more land for allotments, clerk asked to enquire of local landowners.
17 Nov 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Sunday School
"The new Sunday School was opened on Sunday last in the church schools under the direction of Mrs Todd. This is for the benefit of scholars living at the lower end of the village, and is in addition to the very flourishing one held in the church."
No service at War Memorial
"The following letter to the Kent Messenger calls attention to a misunderstanding as regards the Armistice Day service at Hartley on Sunday.
'This morning at 10.45am I went to the Hartley War Memorial. By 11am there wre about 40 people there waiting. We kept the silence, but there was no-one there to take a service or say a few prayers. Last year I believe, there was a service, and I should be glad to know if that practice has been abandoned. Surely a service held at a memorial on such an occasion would be preferable to one in a church.' from 'Disappointed'
Asked to comment on this, the Rector of Hartley, the Rev T P Stevens, pointed out tha the made it as widely known as possible that as Armistice Day fell on a Sunday he would be holding his church services as usual and that it would be impossible to ask his congregation to attend a service both at the church and the memorial because of the distance between. The silence was observed in the church and the names of Hartley's war dead were read out. The idea of an afternoon service at the memorial was abandoned as a similar one was being held at Longfield."
Longfield's Hall of Blooms
"600 chrysanthemums made a beautiful picture at the entrance to Longfield Village Hall on Saturday, when te Longfield and District Horticultural Society held their 4th annual exhibition of chrysanthemums, fruit and vegetables......" Best bloom won by F Smith for "a perfect chrysanthemum coloured bronze and yellow......"
24 Nov 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Social Centre for Kent Village
"Hartley is one of the luckiest villages in Kent. For years life has never been dull there. It has been unlike many villages in that its inhabitants have banded themselves into a very happy and enterprising community, with something to do and somewhere to go most nights of the week. Now it is to have one of the finest village halls in England, a beautiful building (pictured) which will be opened on December 7th by Mr A P F Chapman the cricketer.
The hall, which stands in 10 acres of ground to be used for playing fields, has been built by the Hartley Country Club Ltd, an Association formed by local people, on a non-profit making basis, with the object of providing an adequate social centre for the village. It cost £3,000 and with another £1,000 for the land and other expenses, the venture will have cost about £4,000 all told. The sum of £2,400 has already been subscribed by members towards the £3,500 capital required, and a loan has been obtained from the Kent County Playing Fields Association.
The new building, which is most attractively designed, comprises a large hall, capable of seating nearly 250 in comfort, dressing rooms, a large billiards room, spacious bar, cards room, members' sitting room, ladies' room, secretary's office, and a verandah overlooking the sports ground.
Although its use will be confined to club members, the subscription is so modest - 20s a year - that it is within the reach of practically everybody, and ladies are asked 5 shillings only. People living outside a 4 mile radius can also become members for 5 shillings a year. In addition, each member must take up one 5 shilling share. There are of course, additional subscriptions for tennis, cricket etc. Alread there are 140 members and a big increase is anticipated.
Tje Club wil lhave 2 full sized billiards tables, and there will be facilities for table tennis and badminton. A bowling green is contemplated, and another possible development is the formation of a hockey club. The cricket club, formed only 4 years ago, already meets on terms of equality teams of the standing of Gravesend.
Mr H C Hickmott is chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr C S Bignell secretary, and Mr W J Bye treasurer, other members being Col F C Willes RM, Messrs C M Ellerby, J Sale and A Witt. The new hall will become the headquarters of many local activities, including the Hartley Players. Their next performance will be in January, when they are to present 'The Naughty Wife,' in aid of the Personal Service League."
26 Nov 1934 Times
Road Death
Death of Frank Reed, pillion rider in collision with lorry at Bermondsey
01 Dec 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
More Traffic Lanes
Experimental traffic lanes (pictured) markings to be introdued on London - Folkestone road [the A20] (picture).
Farm Labourer seeks situation
"used to horses, married, no family, age 28, good references, [Harold] Stevens, New House Cottages, Hartley near Longfield.
Croydon Corporation Bill
Public notice for scheme to take water from Hartley, Cuxton and Fawkham to Croydon. To include well with adits and pumping station at Hartley and Fawkham. Conduit running from Cuxton to Addington Reservoir vias Cobham, Luddesdown, Meopham, Hartley, Fawkham, Ridley, Ash, Horton Kirby, Farningham, Eynsford, Orpington, Bromley and Beckenham.
07 Dec 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Country Club Opening
Country Club to be opened by cricketer A P F Chapman, details picture and report - 14/12/1934; Kent Messenger of 15/12/34 has picture of A P F Chapman playing billiards.
08 Dec 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley obituaries
(1) Henry Stoddart of Hill Top, Hoseland Hill, died suddenly at home, aged 78. Came to Hartley 6 years ago, one of first members of Congregational Church. (2) James Edward Pepper, 53, of Laxton Church Road. He was returning from meeting in Constitutional Hall, when he collapsed and died outside the Post Office. He was a keen cricketer and had been an umpire for both Hartley teams. (3) Eliza Blackwell, 62, of The Thatch Cottage, knocked down and illed by bus at Sutton at Hone. Leaves husband Arthur. Paper of 15/12/34 reports on funeral, said he had lived all her life in Hartley and been married for 39 years. Mourners included the local oddfellows lodge. Inquest found she had been visiting Florence Lines of Garretts Cottages and was running to catch the 3.50pm bus.
New Social Club
"The premises left vacant when the Hartley Sports Club moved to the new Hartley Country Club will probably be used for the proposed Hartley and District Social Club for Working Mem. The club, which has 50 members already, is being started by Mr A Watson, who founded the Constitutional Club 9 years ago. It is proposed to rent the ground floor of the premises from the Constitutional Hall Company, and to open early in the new year. Directors of the Constitutional Hall Company have guaranteed £100 to start the club.
Longfield Rector Leaving
"The Rev R F Galer is leaving Longfield in the new year after 5 years in the village. He has been appointed to St Mary Cray."
08 Dec 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Water 'Raid' on Kent Area
"Croydon is short of water and has decided to promote a bill in Parliament with a view to drawing a further rsupply from Kent in sites situated roughly between Thames and Medway. The scheme includes wells, adits and pumping stations in Cuxton, Hartley and Fawkham, and aqueducts and other works, fo rthe conveyance of water to Croydon, in the rural districts of Strood and Dartford, the urban districts of Orpington and Beckenham and the borough of Bromley.
It was reported to the Croydon Town Council on Monday that that area proposed to be exploited had been surveyed by well-known water experts, Messrs Walter S Nicolson and S R Raffety. They were of opinion that the sites were suitable and likely to give an ample yield of water out of chalk, and therefore, with quality 'generally similar' to the existing supply to Croydon. Alderman Wood Roberts, Chairman of the Water Committee said: 'This area in Kent has, as far as we know, been almost entirely unexploited for water supply purposes. If we get the powers we now seek, it will be 2 or 3 years before we obtain water along the new pipeline from Cuxton through Meopham, Farningham, Orpington and Bromley to our reservoir at Addington. We estimate that we could get from these 3 wells about 5 million gallons of water a day, and there is no doubt that we shall want it.' The proposal to promote the bill was approved."
Croydon Seeks Kent Water
Longfield Parish council concerned Croydon plans would be detrimental to local farms by taking the water. They decided to seek expert advice.
Allotments: They had the results of their canvas. Hickmott's executors will sell 40 acres but not just the 10 the council want [Main Road]. Porter Putt and Fletcher said the land opposite The Green Man would be £1,000 rejected by the council. Messrs Baker and Baker said they preferred to sell the allotment gardens at Nurstead farm for £300 rather than lease it for 60 years. This would mean doubling the rents which the act does not allow, so council to counter offer £200.
Cllr Potter to resign in March.
21 Dec 1934 Dartford Chronicle
Hartley House to Let
To let - Semi-detached house, 5 rooms, large garden 17s 6d pw
22 Dec 1934 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Ash Parish Council
(1) To write to Electricity Commissioners to find out when Ash will get electricity. (2) Croydon Water. Will affect parish as pipeline will go along Hartley Bottom Road. Mr Meadway thought it would mean Ash would be short of water and it would ruin the land. Mr Storer thought it would provide work. Parish to ask for more information.
Wedding Bells
Marriage at Southfleet of Horace Sydney Day of Station Road, Longfield to May Beatrice Caller of Southfleet. Picture of couple and Guide honour guard.