1937 News - Hartley-Kent: Covering Hartley, Longfield & District

02 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Late Mr G Venell (sic)

"The death occurred on Sunday of Mr George Venell [Verrell], 75, of Cherry Orchard Cottage, St John's Lane.  The occurrence is particularly sad, in view of the fact that Mr Venell was the devoted companion and sole helper of his blind wife.  The couple have lived in the village for the past 10 years.  The funeral took place on Thursday."

09 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Local Funerals

(1) Mrs M A Copus, 81, wife of Captain David Copus.  They came to Hartley in 1912, first at Willow Lodge "before moving to the newly built bungalow Aramgah close by".  (2) Herbert J Bignold of Steephill, Fawkham.  Funeral at St Mary's.  Daughter Eileen Bignold one of the mourners.  

15 Jan 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Burial Fees at Hartley

Burials - additional fees withdrawn

15 Jan 1937 Daily Herald

Killed by Train

"Mrs Isabella Clarke, aged 65, widow, of Longfield Avenue, Longfield, Kent, at Meopham Station"

16 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) LPTB to reinstate 8.15 Hartley Church to Gravesend bus, as the 8.12 which also runs to Gravesend was not sufficient.  (2) Tree on Hartley Green blown over by wind and iron guard surrounding it bent by a car.  Three stakes required to support tree and new plate required.  (3) Mr Campkin of Cherry Orchard has agreed seat donated by Mr Wells Thatcher can be in front of small piece of orchard opposite his house. [Paper of 27/3/37 reported it was now in place]

Late Mr H Bance

Funeral at Longfield of Henry Bance of Hosecroft, Hartley, 68.  Born Stansted but lived in Longfield for 48 years.  For 47 years he worked for Southern RAilway.

Funeral of Former District Nurse

"The funeral took place on Wednesday at St Mary Magdalene, Canon Parker officiating, of Mrs Martha Weaver, of Armstrong Cottages, Kent Road. A widower and two daughters are bereaved.  Mrs Weaver, who was 75, was until about 5 years ago the district nurse.  Since retirement she had carried on private nursing.  She enjoyed the affection of everyone, and was always willing to give a helping hand and advice....."

20 Feb 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Conservatives

AGM of Hartley Women's Constitutional Association.  Membership 259.

Coronation of George VI

Suggestions by Hartley committee were teas for children and old people, bonfires, more playground space, mugs, country and general dancing.

Death of Mr C W Nairn

"Mr Clifford Warner Nairn, of The Elms [Church Road, Hartley], died on Tuesday in Gravesend Hotel.  Mr Nairn who was in his 79th year, lived at Hartley for about 28 years, and had a large business as a builder.  He was a parish councillor and rating representative.  His wife, to whom he was devoted, lies gravely ill at her home in Hartley."  KM 27/2/37 Funeral at Fawkham where he worshipped for many years.

09 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Buses, further to December's meeting the LPTB promise several improvements, but said it wasn't their policy to offer workmen's fares.  (2) Recreation Ground - Dartford RDC refused to sell land at Whitehill Crossroads for this purpose.

23 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Late Mrs Bevan

Funeral at Longfield of Mrs Bevan, of Valley Villas, Main Road.

30 Jan 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hearts of Oak Lodge (Oddfellows)

"At a committee meeting it was decided to extend to members' children who did not belong to other societies an invitation to join in the Coronation Treat to be held on May 29th."  Apply G J Munn, secretary.

06 Feb 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Dartford Rural District Council

(1) Electricity companies will supply free lighting for displays from 10 May to 12 June as part of Coronation celebrations.  (2) Rumours of a new Swanley bypass.  (3) ARP - Cllr Bignell reported on anti-gas precautions.  (4) Surveyor to negotiate go buy land for passing places at St John's Lane.

Longfield Parish Council

Precept for next half year will be General expenses £80, Coronation £21, Street Lighting £60.  Clerk said they can add 4 or 5 streetlights in the autumn without increasing rates.

Cyclist fined

Albert James Fuller of Kent Road fined 5s for cycling on Station Road footpath.

10 Feb 1937 Bromley & West Kent Mercury

Motor Cyclist Killed

"Accidental death was the verdict at an inquest at the County Hospital, Farnborough, yesterday on Leonard Arthur Prosser, 25, milk roundsman, of Palm Avenue, Foots Cray, who died in the hospital on Monday from multiple injuries sustained in a collision between his motorcycle and a bus at Sidcup Hill, Sidcup, earlier that same day.

Evidence was given to the effect that Prosser, who was motorcycling uphill, drew out from behind a bus and collided with another coming down the hill.

The jury assisting Deputy Coroner, Mr W A Thomson, expressed the opinion that the driver of the second bus, George F Baker, of Longfield, Kent, was not to blame."

13 Feb 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Gravesend Butchers' New Chairman

W Leeves of Longfield elected chairman of Gravesend and District Master Butchers' Association.  [Paper of 13/3/1937 reports on Annual Dinner of the Association and includes a picutre of Mr Leeves]

Hay for Sale

"For sale last year's stack of hay, about 20 tons, price £70, Apply Hickmott, Longfield [Court]"

20 Feb 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Late Mr J Foster

"The death occurred in Gravesend Hospital on Monday of Mr John Foster, aged 87, of St John's Villa, [30] Station Road.  Mr Foster had been a farmer and coal merchant, but in recent year the coal business has been carried on by his sons.  He had 22 children, 15 of whom are still living.  A widow is also bereaved...."

27 Feb 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Country Club Cricket Team

AGM, captains for the teams for coming season were elected by ballot - 1st XI E J White; 2nd XI C Ellerby.

Hartley WI

"The popularity of country dancing is on the increase among young people, as was evidenced on Saturday evening in the WI Hall when about 70 took part in the old time dances..."

06 Mar 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Country Club

3rd AGM, Mr C M Ellerby presiding.  They hope to open the bowls green in the summer

Big Rise in Dartford Rural Rate

Up by 11d to 9s 2d in the pound general rate.  Extra expenses include Open Spaces £1,000; coronation £775 and Air Raid Precautions £450.  Longfield Special Rate 3d.

13 Mar 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Alleged Conspiracy to Defraud - Hartley Builder and Dartford Secretary Remanded

Rober Roy Burnsten-Wilson and Frederick A Job appear at Bow Street Police Court.  "The warrant alleged that between Dec 1st 1935 and Dec 1st 1936, the conspired together and with others to forge and utter a number of application forms, deeds an dother documents with intent to defraud the Pepole's Ladn Buildings and Dwellings Co Ltd, Furnival House, High Holborn, and that they obtained on May 29th last £950, on Aug 24th £2,300 and on Oct 16th, £800.  Job finds bail, Burnsten-Wilson did not

20 March 1937 Alleged Conspiracy to Defraud

"Hartley and Dartford Men said to have obtained £4,050….Robert Roy Burnsten-Wilson, 39, builder, Beauval, Gorsewood Road, Hartley and Frederick A Job, 62, assistant secretary, Sussex Road, Dartford, wre charged on remand at Bow Street Police Court on Friday last week, with conspiring with Mrs Wilson and others to forge and utter application forms, deeds and other documents, and obtaining sums totalling £4,050 from the People's Land, Building and Development Co Ltd.  Mrs Maude Burnsten-Wilson, the wife of Wilson, now appeared for the first time on a summons accusing her of the same offences.

Mr Vincent Evans, conducting the case on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions, said that Wilson was adjudicated bankrupt in 1932, and was still undischaged.  He called himself a clerk of works for H A Clarke Ltd, a private company with a registered office in Charing Cross Road, London and a branch office at 2 Ash Road, Hartley.  The nominal capital was £1,000, and Mrs Wilson his wife held 150 shares.  She and her mother were directors, and Mrs Wilson was also secretary.  Wilson was the man really behind the company, and he actually ran it.  Job was the assistant secretary of the company and actively assisted him.

In December 1935 the People's Land, Building and Development Co which lent money on property, received an application from H A Clarke Ltd for an advance of £950 on No 2 Ash Road, and an application from Mrs Wilson for a similar advance on No 1 Ash Road.  Eventually loans of £750 were made in each case.  These transactions were quite genuine.  In the submission of the prosecution, what happened after that wsa that H A Clarke Ltd proceeded to put forward a number of fraudulent applications for loans either on behalf of persons who had not bought any property and did not desire loans, or on behalf of non-existent persons.  Specific cases mentioned were loans on houses in The Drive and Southfleet Road, New Barn, Longfield, 2 Church Road, formerly known as Ash Road, Hartley; Windmill Street, Gravesend; and No 1 Road, off Shipwright's Drive, South Benfleet.  In each case the person in whose name the application had been made denied that the signature on the conveyance was his or else was non-existent.  Mr William Roll, until recently secretary of the People's Land Building and Development Co Ltd, gave evidence in support of counsel's statement.  Mr G D Roberts, counsel for Job, said that Job was a man of excellent character.  All that he had done was to witness documents, either in blank or already signed, as so many people did.  He was merely a servant of the company and did not receive one penny out of any of the transactions.  The hearing was adjourned for a week."

27 March 1937 Hartley Couple and Dartford Man Sent for Trial

Bow Street Magistrates committed them to the Old Bailey for trial.  All pleaded not guilty.  Wilsons had reserved their defence.  Bail allowed.  SEveral witnesses for the prosecution at the commital proceedings.

13 April 1937 (Evening News) Acquitted

Frederick Andrew Job, aged 62, an assistant secretary, was found not guilty at the Old Bailey......"

[Robert eventually jailed (Dartford Chronicle 12.3.37, 19.3.37, 26.3.37,16.4.37, 4.6.37)]

13 Mar 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Poultry Equipment for Sale

"2 sectional poultry houses, 40ft x 15ft £12 each or offer; 5 small sectional poultry houses 6ft x 4ft, £2 each; 3 night arks, 3 incubators, 360, 240 and 70 offers.  Webster, Church Road, Hartley, Longfield."

19 Mar 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Hartley Country Club

Boxer Jimmy Wilde visits country club

20 Mar 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Meeting

(1) Elections 8 nominated and following 7 elected: Miss E J Barker, Captain C S Bignell, Messrs E J Cuff, A E Edward, H H Meddick and C Z Sizmur and Mrs E A Tate.  Voting was by show of hands.  A resolution demanded a secret ballot in future (as did another 18 Kent parishes) (2) Dartford RDC has put forward a scheme for collecting unburnable rubbish in the villages, if all agree it could be arranged for a 6.4d rate.

Pansies for Sale

"Yellow and blue, good quality, Dunmall, 5 Victoria Terrace, [30] Essex Road, Longfield."

10 Apr 1937 Croydon Times

In Reply to Yours

(Children's Page) "Betty Lewis (Hartley, Kent): Thank you for the letter and the gift, Betty.  It was nice of you to think of sending me the violets and primroses.  You must have a lovely orchard.  I expect the country around Hartley is looking beautifully green and fresh now, isn't it?"

[Betty G Lewis b 1924 lived at Gorsewood Farm]

10 Apr 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Players Many Successes

"The Hartley Players are an enthusiastic amateur society with a high reputation for the quality of their productions, who have gathered a large circle of supporters from all over North Kent.  Glancing through the names of the well-known people who have taken part in their productions it is not surprising that the society's shows have always been outstanding box office successes......."  However the Players have a number of problems related to the high turnover of cast members, need of a strong producer, and the loss of Douglas Ross, "their quiet but thorough secretary, business manager, and advertising man.  This is an acute dilemma from which Cyril Boston, who becomes his successor is now trying to extricate them."  Next production is Noel Coward's 'The Young Idea' debuting Captain Bignell in a leading part.

Jobs wanted

"Experienced Cooper, disengaged, raspberry, tar etc.  Smith, Myrtle Villas, [Station Road], Longfield, Kent."

17 Apr 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Players in the Young Idea

"The Hartley Players introduced no fewer than 5 new players in their production of Noel Coward's comedy 'The Young Idea' on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of last week, at the Hartley Country Club.  The new talent introduced was an all round success...."  Charles Bignell was "just he discovery the Society has been looking for".  Praise for Cyril Boston as business manager and Andrew Kerr as producer.

Hartley Agricultural Co-Operative Society

AGM, F J Bartholemew presiding.  Turnover up, membership up to 239.  Divident is 1s in the £ plus a bonus of 8d in the £ for all purchases.

Late Mrs Rhodes

"The death occurred on Sunday of Mrs Rhodes, aged 77, of Gadial, Essex Road.  Mrs Rhodes had been in bad health for some months."

24 Apr 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) Charles Sizmur elected chairman, after Capt Bignell and E J Cuff said they had too much other work.  (2) Dangerous irons on corners of Hartley Green replaced by white kerb stones.  (3) Complaints of late delivery of post in Ash Road.  And that letters were being collected at 8pm from the box in Church Road, when it says last collection is 9.10pm.  KM 15/5/37 reported deliveries wer back to 9am and plate on post box had been corrected.

Air Raid Precautions

Large attendance at meeting at WI Hall on proposed ARP for the area and to get volunteers.

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Council still trying to buy cricket meadow at Longfield Hill for a children's recreation ground.  (2) Problem of rats in old dump at Whitehill, council query whether non-residents are allowed to dump rubbish there.  (3) Six additional street lamps to be erected before next winter.  (4) Request to Dartford Postmaster to put light in phone box, and to make the 10am collection later.  KM 12/6/37 Reply was that there was a collection at 11.15am which connected with despatch of mails from Dartford.  A collection at the time the PC wanted would not connect with anything.  (5) Buses, 490A is using Hartley Road instead of Station Road and it appears the fare stage at Whitehill has been altered.

01 May 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Gravesend Declare

Report of Gravesend's match notes that they have signed Hartley Country Club's star bowler (from Cobham) T R Broad "who last season took 146 wickets for Hartley Country Club.  Broad sends down medium pace deliveries and has a nice easy action.  He may well prove to be the bowler Gravesend have been needing.  In this game he claimed 4 wickets"

Labourer wanted

"Strong lad (16) for farm and garden, able to milk - Miss Davies Cooke, Middle Farm, Hartley, Longfield."

08 May 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Coronation Programme

(1) Hartley 2.15pm joint CofE/Congregational service.  "2.30 Sports, 3.45 Children's Tea, 4.30 Adult's Tea, 4.30 to 6 Hartley Folk Dancers Display, 6.30 Presentation of medals and prizes, 7.30 King's speech relay, WI Hall, 9-1am Dancing Hartley Country Club.  Events mentioned in KM 15/5/37

(2) Longfield 10.30am Parish Church Service, 12.30 Carnival and Culverstone Silver Band and Boys' Brigade assemble at Station, march at 1pm to Rectory Meadow, 3 Judging of carnival, 3.30 Planting of Oak Tree by Canon Parker, 3.45 Sports for all, 5 Tea in schools for children 2-14.  Souvenir Mugs, 5.45 Sports, 7 Final Sports and prizes, 9-1am Dance in Village Hall.  Meat tea and entertainment for people aged 60+ in Village Hall, Saturday May 15th at 6pm.  More details in report KM 15/5/37.  Telegram sent to King & Queen, 50 entries in the carnival, lorries and decorated bicycles, list of winners.  Bad weather caused curtailment of sports

KM 22/5/37 72 attended the old folks' tea.  Winners for best coronation decoarations announced.  Private Houses - 1 Mrs Tatlock, Valley Villas [207 Main Road], 2 Mrs A Longhurst, Valley Villas [235 Main Road]; 3 Mr [..] Lindsell, [22] Essex Road.  Businesses - 1 Messrs H P Hicks and F Pain [27 Station Road] (combined), 2 Mr Leeves [21 Station Road], 3 Mrs J Rich [1 Station Road], all Station Road.

(3) Ash.  Morning, relay in parish room of Abbey Service, 2.30pm Chidren's sports, distribution of mugs, 5pm Tea, adults' sports, gifts for old people.

Hartley 'Demons'

(Cricket) "The Balchins, R and W, took a heap of wickets for Hartley last season, and they soon recaptured their form on Saturday.  Between them they skittled Longfield [Hill] out for 23.  R Balchin had 6-11, and W Balchin 4-7.  There were 5 Longfield ducks.  Hartley had only 10 men, but they easily passed Longfield's total.  In fact H Goodwin (22) all but beat his opponents off his own bat. R Laws bowled well for the losers, his five wickets costin only 8 runs.

15 May 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) Dartford RDC want to plant trees on Stocks and Hartley Court Greens.  [KM 10/7/1937 now says it was PC who wanted to do this and DRDC only allowed them on Hartley Court Green]  (2) Bus passengers said to be trampling down grass at War Memorial.

Longfield District Nurses Praised

AGM of Longfield etc Nursing Association.  17th annual report said the two nurses paid 3,652 visits and worked 4,014 hours the previous year.  Committee includes Mrs Crouch (Fawkham), Mrs Robson (Hartley) and Mrs Leeves (Longfield).

15 May 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Bankruptcy Order - Maude Burnsten-Wilson

"In the Rochester County Court. In Bankruptcy No 4 of 1937.  Re: Maude Burnsten-Wilson (married woman), residing and carrying on business at Beauval, Gorsewood Road, Hartley, Longfield, Kent, as a Building Contractor and Company Director, lately carrying on business under the name or style of 'J and M Modes', 3 Ash Road, Hartley, aforesaid, as General Draper; and also lately carrying on business under the name or style of 'The Jubilee Stores', 1 Ash Road, Hartley, aforesaid, as Grocer and Provision Merchant....."

Dartford Chronicle 28/5/1937

Bankruptcy of Maud Bernsten-Wilson of Beauval, Gorsewood Road. Liabilities £3,464, assets £59. She said she had 150 shares in HA Clarke Ltd that had built a number of homes in the Longfield area and in Jubilee Stores and Hartley Pharmacy, now closed.

KM 29/5/37 Hartley Woman's £3,000 Deficiency - Echo of Old Bailey Trial

"A deficiency of more than £3,000 was admitted in Rochester Bankruptcy Court on Monday by Mrs Maud Burnsten Wilson of Hartley, who appeared for her public examination.  Mrs Wilson admitted that since the date of the receiving order, she had been convicted at the Old Bailey of conspiracy to defraud and bound over.  Questions were asked about Mrs Wilson's activity as a building contractor and company director and her businesses at Hartley as a draper and grocer.  The statement of affairs showed liabilities of £8,463 and a deficiency of £3,404.  Mrs Wilson was questioned on operations at Benfleet, Hartley, Longfield, and Halstead near Sevenoaks.  Asked by the Official Receiver (Mr F C Wells) how she stood with regard to H A Clarke Limited, she said she understood that accounts showed the firm owed her £700.  Mrs Wilson was questioned at length about her transactions through the People's Land, Buildings and Dwellings Co Ltd, London, and the examination was adjourned for her to file an account showing the receipt and disposal of monies received on mortgage on certain properties, amounting to several thousand pounds, also her transactions with H A Clarke Ltd.  Mrs Wilson appeared at the Old Bailey with her husband and another man, who was acquitted.  Sentence on her husband was postponed."

15 May 1937 Daily Mirror

Tragic Dream came True

"Wife of George William Packham, 32, labourer of Forge Cottage, Ash, near Dartford, who had been missing for nearly a month, dreamed he was drowned in a pond… Out for a walk next day she passed a pond, saw her husband's body lying in it.  At the inquest yesterday the coroner said he was 'under the shadow of a rather serious charge' and was wanted by the police.  Verdict: Suicide while of unsound mind."

21 May 1937 Bromley & West Kent Mercury

Motor Cyclist's Fatal Collision

"Albert Edward Hawes, aged 27, of 15 Bridge Road, Orpington, died in the county hospital Farnborough, on Monday following a collision between his motorcycle and a car, in Orpington bypass, just south of Provost Road, on Wednesday last week - Coronation Day.  The car, the driver of which was James Reginald Webster of Church Road, Hartley, near Longfield, is said to have been stationary at the time of the accident.  Hawes received terrible head injuries.  Sidney Sales, aged 20, of 1 Brookmead Way, Orpington, who was riding pillion, sustained a broken right arm and was also taken to hospital.  An inquest will be held.  The funeral of Mr Hawes has been arranged to take place at Orpington Churchyard tomorrow at 10.30 am following a service in the house.  Messrs J Humerston & Sons Ltd are the undertakers."

28/5/1937 Coronation Day Crash

"A vivid description of an accident at Orpington by-pass road, near Poverest Road Crossing, about 5.30pm on Coronation Day, when a motorcyclist sustained fatal injuries, was given at the inquest at the County Hospital, Farnborough, on Friday, by a special constable, Herbert Henry Colyer, who was on duty at the time.

The motorcyclist, Albert Ernest Hawes, journeyman painter and decorator of 15  Bridge Road, Orpington, recieved multiple injuries in collision with a stationary car, the driver of which was James Reginald Webster, of Church Road ,Hartley, near Longfield.  Hawes died in hospital on Monday, May 17th.  Sydney Sales of 1 Brookmead Road, Orpington, who was riding pillion on the motorcycle, also had serious head injuries and was unable to give evidence.

'The car came over the crossing, travelling very slowly', said special constable Colyer, a domestic gardener, of 31 Hearns Rise, St Pauls Cray, 'The motorcycle was then about 100 to 120 yards away.  Just before reaching the car breaker's yard on the opposite side of the road, the driver of the car put out his right hand as a warning that he was going to stop, which he did.'

Witness was questioned as to the sign given, as he at first indicated a 'turn right' sign.  He said he corrected the sign, adding that he clearly understood that the car driver intended to stop.  The car stopped 18 inch to 2 feet from the kerb.

'When the motorcyclist got about three parts over the crossing,' continued witness, 'he turned his head over his left shoulder, as though to speak ot his passenger.  He was travelling very slowly.  He continued to do that until he was 15 to 20 feet from the car, when he suddenly turned his head towardds the front.  He hit the near side of the car.  The pillion rider was thrown into the air and toppled backwards.  The driver of the cycle held onto the handlebars and as the hind part of the machine lifted, his head went through the rear window of the car.  His body lifted from the machine but fell back again, and, as the cycle toppled over to the right, he went over with it, still holding the handlebars.'

Mr W A Thompson, deputy coroner for West Kent, remarked that the pillion passenger had stated that the car turned to the right.  Witness: 'No sir.'

Mr Webster, a taxi driver, said he looked in his mirror before stopping, but did not see the motorcyclist.  He definitely gave a stop signal.  'I had been there at least a minute - long enough to take out my pocket book - when I felt something more a snap than a smash.  The glass partition in the car deadened the sound.'

The coroner said the pillion rider had stated that the car slowed down, but instead of stopping, turned across the road to the offside at an angle of about 45 degrees.

Henry Joseph Hawes, clerk, a brother of the dead man, said that his brother was conscious when the witness visited him in hospital, but was unable to remember anything of the accident.

Dr J F Hackwood, medical superintendent at the County Hospital, said that deceased sustained a facture of the skull, nasal bone and lower and upper jaw.

The jury, after retiring, returned a verdict of Accidental Death."

04 Jun 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Hartley Country Club

Bowls green opened

04 Jun 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Longfield Council Houses

Dartford RDC has 40 houses in Longfield, none in arrears of rent

05 Jun 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Meeting

(1) "The Chairman [Charles Sizmur] reported that the Rural Council had been asked to formulate a scheme for the emptying of cesspools and the collection of house refuse.  They had gone into the matter very thoroughly an had found that if all the parishes concerned joined in the scheme, it would be possible to arrange for a weekly collection of house refuse, and for the emptying of cesspools when required for a 6.4d rate."  If Hartley had to go it alone it would be a 9d rate.  (2) Fire protection, "it was stated at present all fire calls from Hartley were put through to Horton Kirby, who had a very efficient brigade"  [Prior meetings had said most fires in Hartley were dealt with by the Dartford Brigade]

Oddfellows' Children's Sports

"More than 100 children were entertained to tea, sports, conjuring and musical entertainment, on Saturday by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows' Friendly Society, Hearts of Oak Lodge No 4625 in the Social Club Hall...." List of winners of competitions for children and adults, including "Hidden treasure: Brother Dudney (10s groceries), Bro F Selsby (5s groceries).  The entrance fees for this competition were sent to the widows and orphans of the society.  The sports were held in the Meadow of the Hartley Co-Operative Society [Hartley Garage].  Each child was presented with vouchers to be spent at the stall on the field, also a gift on leaving.  The evenign programme included living marionettes by Mr Will Thorne, musical clowns by Mr Leo de Vere, conjuring and ventriloqual items aby Mr C Moore and songs by Bros F Day and Austin PMG.

Hartley Coronation Celebrations

Accounts show a surplus of £2 12s 3d, it was suggested this might go to seats on Hartley Green.  Supported by voluntary contributions (£24 9s 4d) also gifts of cakes and bread by Mr Groom, milk by Mr Parrett and cake by Mr Hicks.  400 teas served in the afternoon.

Eight Ducks!

(Hartley Cricket Club at Hartley) "Most disastrous batting display of the day was that of Stansted.  Hartley dismissing them for 13 runs.  There were no fewer than 8 ducks.  Hartley had previously declared at 115-4.  R Balchin had a grand match taken 7 ever so cheap wickets [7-4] and hitting 36."  [J Sopp scored 45no for Hartley]

Golden Wedding

"A happy family party celebrated at Homestead Cottages [I think 3 Valley Villas, 211 Main Road is meant] on Sunday, the golden wedding of Mr and Mrs John Thomas Redsell..... Mr and Mrs Redsell were married at Southfleet.  They had a family of 11 children.  Mrs Redsell, who is 73, made the cherry coated anniversary cake which all the family sampled."

11 Jun 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Darenth Cottages

Darenth Cottages, Ash Rd - did Defoe live there?

Congregational Church

thanksgiving service for raising of purchase money see also 18/6./1937

William McPherson

Obituary of William McPherson of Church Road, aged 57

12 Jun 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Parish Council

(1) Coronation, 11 trees promised for beautifying village as a memorial.  (2) Notice Boards.  "AS it wsa reported that parish meeting notices were often not seen, it was agreed that estimates for two special parish noticeboards be obtained; one to be put at the top of Hoselands Hill, if possible, and the other at the bus stop in Church Road."

Land Offer at Longfield

"Longfield Parish Council, on Monday, considered a letter from Messrs D & K Woodward, offering to sell a little over 3 acres at Longfiel dHill for a recreation ground.  The price asked was £750.  They stipulated that no buildings should be erected on the land if the council decided to buy, except such as would be necessary in connection with a recreation ground, and also that Longfield Hill CC should have the right to play there.  The chairman Mr A G Letchford doubted whether the land would be large enough for a recreation ground.  Mr A E Potter asked whether there was a need for a recreation ground at Longfield Hill, and Mr F R Langford said there was not ground available for recreational purposes at the present time.  They badly needed a place to keep children off the road.  On the proposition of Capt W M Partridge, it was decided to ask Messrs Woodward whether they would be willing to sell another 2 acres and what the price would be."

12 Jun 1937 Evening News

Defoe's Cottage Doomed

"Defoe's Cottage in the village of Hartley, Kent where, it is claimed, the author worte Robinson Crusoe, has fallen into disrepair and there is little hope that it will be saved.  The one roomed cottage standing on the main road from Dartford to Ash is owned by Mr A M Fleet JP chairman of the Dartford Bench.  He told me today, writes an Evening Standard representative, that although he is aware of the claim about  Crusoe, in the absence of documentary evidence he did not feel inclined to repair the cottage which, in any case, is too small now for habitation."

Paper has two other pictures of Hartley

(1) Thatching an old country cottage at Hartley

(2) The Schoolmistress at Hartley, Longfield, near Dartford Kent showing children how to play stoolball.

19 Jun 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Building Contractor Advert

 "Plastering, brickwork, painting - Trade Only.  E R Jones Barlow, building contractor, Longfield, Kent.  24 hour estimating service."  [probably of Viewpoint, Merton Avenue]

26 Jun 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Air Raid Precautions

"The first of a series of lectures, given on Friday evening in the WI Hall, attracted a large audience.  The speaker was Captain Spencer Tucker, ARP officer of Longfield, who described the uses of various gases in warfare".

No Inquest on Hartley Woman

"Fatal collapse on eve of 9th confinement.  Following a post mortem examination, it has been decided not to hold an inquest on Mrs Miriam Lydia Warren, 48, of South View, Church Road, Hartley.  The mother of 8 children, she was expecting a 9th on Monday morning.  Her husband went for the midwife and when he returned he discovered her in a collapsed state.  It is thought she had a coughing fit during her husband's absence."

Balchin's Brilliant Bowling for Hartley

At Gravesend Henleys 3rd XI 31, Hartley 129.  "Henleys 3rd batsmen could do nothing against the deadly trundling of R Balchin of Hartley, who returned the splendid analysis of 8-6.  Jones, Henley's first man in alone reached double figures.  Worsley and Goodwin batted confidently for Hartley and gave their side an excellent start.  Their combined effort totalled 78, but after their departure there was a slump and the innings closed for 129."

19 Jun 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Storm Damage

"During the violent storm on Thursday evening last week, Fernholme [Apple Tree Cottage], the residence of Mr and Mrs E J Cuff was struck by lightning, a chimney at the side of the house being damaged.  Fortunately no-one was hurt."

The Oratory

Jumble sale at hut in Stack Lane.  Priest in Charge Father McNamee attends.

Hothfield Dairy

"Cowman wanted, single.  Parrett, Hothfield Dairy, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."

19 Jun 1937 John Bull

Slow Coaches

"Yet another justified grumble of railway slow coaches.  The City man's train (call it not express) takes 65 minutes to cover 23 miles from Fawkham, Kent to Holborn and the local councils are protesting.  Cannot the much advertised speeding up of long distance trains be extended to the suburbs?"

02 Jul 1937 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Terrific Cricket

 // "The Terrific Cricket Club, composed of members of Tonbridge RFC, does not often appear in public, and although it was on Sunday able to field a team which scored 154 runs - some of whom are not unknown to the town's senior cricket club - this terrific feat was performed at Hartley, where the Country Club team, despite Mortlock's 4 for 49 scored 176 and won by 22 runs.  A good time was had by all.

Hartley Country Club: J Hitchcock 25, O Hicks 27, D Hitchcock 4, T Crouch 6, D Sleep 25, A O Jones 26, B J White 22, O Beadles 3, E Harris 15, R Broad 6, C Willmott 8*, Extras 9.  Total 176.

Terrific CC 154 all out Jones 4 for 21, Broad 6 for 47."

02 Jul 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Bus Accident

Bus in Church Rd has upper desk windows broken by bough of tree

03 Jul 1937 The Sphere

Thatching Kentish Cottages

"An uncommon sight in these days in which thatching is a dying art and few cottagers can afford the expense of it.  A picture taken at Hartley, near Dartford" (picture)

03 Jul 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

£2,500 HQ for Dartford

Opening of new St John Ambulance HQ at Princes Road, thanks to gift by Miss Serena.  "The Dartford Division was formed in March 1931, and has 43 members.  An ambulance was purchased in October 1931, and a new one will be dedicated on July 17th.  The area covered includes Dartford, Greenhithe, Wilmington, Longfield and Bean.  In 1936 there were 359 sick removals, 74 accident cases and 201 first aid cases, while 2,500 public duties were performed and the ambulance covered 5,204 miles..."

09 Jul 1937 Dartford Chronicle

All Saints' Church

Church Army to visit Hartley.  Repair Fund for All Saints

10 Jul 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Never Extended

(Cricket) "Stansted were overwhelmed by Hartley, who won as they liked.  Stansted were dismissed for 34, W Balchin taking 4-2, R Balchin 4-7, and C Worsley 2-17.  Hartley replied with 124-4, passing their opponents' total for the loss of one wicket."

Late Mrs A Morris

"The funeral took place on Tuesday at Hartley Church of Mrs A Morris, 81 of Hartley Bottom, who died the previous Thursday.  Mrs Morris was much respected in the district and was a great friend of the children, several of whom dropped flowers into the grave."

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Recreation grounds.  Owners say they want £900 for land at Longfield Hill, council to offer £700.  PC to speak to Playing Fields Association about how land at Whitehill Road can be made suitable for a recreation ground.  (2) PC reiterate their belief a mortuary is needed at Longfield.

17 Jul 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

No insurance

"At Dartford on Friday last week, Walter Robert Maynard, Hope Villa, Station Road, Longfield, was fined £2 with costs for driving a car without a policy of insurance.  His licence was endorsed."  [He lived at 1 Hope Villas, the old no 9 Station Road, since demolished]

23 Jul 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Haystack Fire

Hartley Manor - haystack fire

24 Jul 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

47 Extras!

(at Hartley Country Club) Kent Works 206-1, Hartley Country Club 2nds 85 (extras 47, W Bye 16)

30 Jul 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Hartley Manor - Barn fire

Fought by Horton Kirby Fire Brigade, assisted by locals with buckets of water.

06 Aug 1937 Dartford Chronicle

'Defoe's' Cottage

Sir Stephen Tallents - Defoe did not live in Hartley, Dartford

06 Aug 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Local News in Brief

Retirement of Longfield Postman Edmund Crouch (pictured) after 44 years; walked 20 miles pd, about 335,000 in all.  (2) Patrick J Mclnerny of Hampton Cottage, Hartley Green fined for assaulting unemployment officer

08 Aug 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Poultry Equipment Advert

"Two ace battery houses, 40 x 18; 324 layers cages, three cluck hovers, carry on; two night arks; all new last year; sacrifice third cost.  Payne, Thornton House [Gorsewood Road], Hartley, Kent."

Rectory Meadow

"For sale, ready for immediate development within 100 yards Fawkham Station, Chatham main line, 7 acres of freehold land, 950 feet frontage - Lenton, Lamorna, Hartley, Longfield."

13 Aug 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Local News in Brief

(1) Miss Bouchers shop in Church Rd broken into, two convicted see also 22/10/1937, 20/8/1937.  (2) Obituary of John Northover Stickland MBE, 84

15 Aug 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

£800 wanted for proposed recreation ground

Owners D & K Woodward ask £800 for land at Longfield Hill, but insist Longfield Hill Cricket Club have first call.  However parish council has been told by National Playing Fields Association that the land should only be used as a recreation ground.  Their highest offer so far was £700.

Longfield Postman Retires after 44 Years

"Mr Edmund Crouch, Hillview, Fawkham has just retired after 44 yearsas postman at Longfield Post Office.  When he started at the age of 16 there were 3 postmen at Longfield, now there are 9.  It is estimated that during those years he has travelled over 335,000 mils on foot and cycle.  Two years ago the Postal Authorities discovered that Mr Crouch has not received his annual holiday during his first year's work, so he enjoyed it that year although rather late.

Despite the hard winters that Mr Crouch has known, luckily they have not interfered with his health, and during his 44 years' service he has had only about 3 months' sick leave.  The biggest blow he suffered was the death of his brother, with whom he had worked for 30 years. Mr Crouch has received a letter in appreciation of his services from the Postmaster General, Mr G C Tryon.  Another tribute from the Head Postmaster of Dartford, Mr F C Swain, reads as follows: 'On the last day of your Post Office service, I cannot refrain, whilst regretting your going, from sending you my vry best wishes for a happy and long retirement.  I hope time in its passing will touch both yourself and Mrs Crouch lightly and that you will enjoy to the full your days of leisure, which I am sure you deserve after 44 years  and 9 months umblemished service in the Post Office.

Mr Crouch's colleagues at Longfield Post Office have presented to him a silver mounted walking stick and to Mrs Crouch an umbrella.  From Mr Percy Canon and others at Dartford Office he has received a case of pipes.  The accompanying photograph was taken during his last week on duty with Master David Stickland [1931-2010] with whom he's been great friends.  Master Strickland is the youngest son of Mr and Mrs J R Stickland, The Old Downs, Hartley.  Mr Crouch, who is held in high esteem by all throughout the district, has the earnest wish that he may enjoy many years of retirement.  His hobby is gardenign and some years ago he used to be a successful exhibitor and shows."

27 Aug 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Local News in Brief

(1) Theodore Mees of W Kingsdown fined - insufficient brakes; (2) Patrick Mclnerny of Hartley Green fined - no dog licence

28 Aug 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

History Repeated at Longfield Flower Show

Longfield & Dist Flower show.  E J Rich repeated last year's victory in the Perpetual Trophy.  Gladys Cherry of Hartley CofE school wins prize for best bouquet of wild flowers for 3rd year in a row.  Picture of Committee.

11 Sep 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) Lack of signposts on Ash Road said to be confusing drivers coming from Ash, PC to write to AA.  (2) "Complaint was made that many of the family [sic - they mean Fairby] mothers were frequently seen pushing their perambulators six abreast down the main road.  The clerk was asked to write to the matron of the home on the subject."

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Whitehill crossroads.  Dartford RDC to paint white lines, PC prefer stop signs be painted instead.  (2) Streetlighting.  They accept West Kent Electricity Co's quote of £3 12s for 6 new lights, want them in before winter.  (3) Longfield Hill recreation Ground.  They decided to accept D and K Woodward's quote of £800 for the land if they can get sanction.  One councillor thought it was overpriced.

Simple Flowers for Kindly Woman

"Posies of flowers from the hedgerows and cottage gardens were laid on the grave of Miss Kate Cromar, who died on Monday a few days from her 81st birthday, and was buried at Longfield Parish Church on Thursday.  Miss Cromar lived with her sister in law, Mrs F A Cromar, Principal of Merton House School, Merton House, Hoselands Hill, Hartley.  It was her dying wish that her many friends in the district would not spend money on flowers at her funeral.

Born in London, she came to Hartley 22 years ago, and since then had won the love of the poor in Longfield by her kindliness.  For 2 years she ran a kindergarten school in Longfield, and had for many years conducted on in Essex.  A member of the Longfield Mothers' Union, Miss Cromar was a regular attendant at Longfield Parish Church, a member of the Dartford British Israel Federation and Gravesend Pentecostal League.  She was also associated with the British Jews Society, and had done much to help working class Jews in the country...."

18 Sep 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Detective Sergeant Retiring

R H Nelms to retire after 25 years' service.  "A native of Charlton, Det Sgt Nelms entered the Royal Artillery in 1906, and 6 years later joined the Gravesend Police Force.  He rejoined the army in 1914, and for 5 years was in the Military Police.  He took part in the landing of Gallipoli and also served in France, being mentioned in despatches.  Returning to police work in Gravesend, he was promoted to Sergeant in 1927.  He has been commended several times and received high praise from the magistrates in 1931 for arresting a man - wanted on several charges of house breaking - who was in possession of a loaded revolver.  Det Sgt Nelms (pictured) will live at Glenelm, Hartley."

Village Hall Apathy

Longfield Village Hall AGM.  Rector thought some people shouldn't be on committee as they never turned up.  Trust deed altered so new trustees can be appointed.  Hall in £26 credit.

25 Sep 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Agricultural Co-Op Society

Half year meeting.  "The chairman reported that among improvements made during the last 6 months were a new draw in for lorries etc, the erection of a new pari of gates, and extensive repairs and strengthening of the original store.  Mr Cuff had given time and help and they were indebted to him.  Large and roomy shelves had been erected in the loft, which would be a great advantage when stocktaking etc., and, in addition, lights in the roof and ventilation had been inserted, so that a more even temperatiure was now maintained...." Sales up and so is membership to 247.

Attempted burglary

"Hearing an unusual noise while standing in the back garden of his mother's house on Sunday evening. Mr Stanley Hooper, son of Mrs Hooper of Woodcroft Hartley, found that somebody had entered through the front door and left the bedroom in a state of great disorder.  His shouts disturbed the intruders who disappeared in the darkness.  The local police were notified."

02 Oct 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Streetlighting

"Street lamps at Meopham Green, at the Parade and near the station, would be a boon on winter nights, and need not be a blot on the landscape.  Villagers regard with envy their neighbours at Longfield, about 2 miles away, which has a first rate streetlighting system."

08 Oct 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Local News in Brief

(1) Badminton Club formed.  (2) B J White, cricket captain, moving to Stratford on Avon.  (3) Longfield Parish Council complains of fireworks being let off on highway

09 Oct 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Dartford Rural District Council

(1) Walter Wright asked why council houses in Longfield don't have electricity.  The chairman said West Kent Electric have been given permission to approach the tenants, apparently they are working on houses at Crockenhill and Swanley and presumed they will move to Longfield eventually.  (2) Captain Bignell complained that Hartley is being penalised because they raised money locally for the Coronation celebrations rather than draw down the money allowed by the District Council.  Chairman told him they should have spent the money.  (3) Sutton at Hone said their parish should have 3 councillors - Swanley, Hextable and Sutton at Hone, instead of the present one.  Chairman said parishes shouldn't be warded.

Hartley Parish Council

(1) AA said they can't erect road signs as they have to be approved by MInistry of Transport.  (2) Following destruction of barn by fire at Manor Farm, Dartford RDC suggested a new hydrant at "the three wents at the top of Manor Drive".  PC said they have sufficient protection for house property, owners of farm buildings away from the road will have to act for themselves.  (3) Someone prevented using footpath in Foxbury Wood. Council to speak to owner.

Youths with housebreaking tools

Edric Churchley, 19, sent to borstal for 3 years for theft of £1, cigarettes and other articles at Hartley on July 25th and another break in at Darenth.

22 Oct 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Local Will

 // Will of J N Stickland of Kaye Cottage £10,066

23 Oct 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Woman Exhibits Dexter Champion

"….At Olympia where only TT cattle were shown, Miss Beatrice Davies-Cooke of Longfield [Middle Farm, Hartley], secured the breed championship cup for Dexters with a beautiful cow, Beenham Witch...."

30 Oct 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Magistrates' Cases

(1) Herbert Percival Austin, 20, Manor Drive fined £1 for driving motorbike without licence.  (2) Edward Robert Jones Barlow, School House, Hartley Green, ordered to pay 2d per day for father William Edward Barlow, who became chargable in September 1935 and defendant was earning £2 6s a week.

No dog licence

George Ripley of 2 New Hayes Cottages - no dog licence

Women's Institute

"Mrs E A Tate read a letter of thanks from the Personal Service League at Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, for clothes sent from the Institute members, and in view of the deplorable conditions of the poorer people of Merthyr, it was decided to make a further collection as soon as possible."  [KM 25/12/1937 - third sack of clothes sent to distressed areas of South Wales, thank you letter said "The poor people are suffering greatly from lack of clothing.  These gifts will make the festive season less of a mockery for many of them."  KM 1/1/1938 three sacks of clothing, tins of cocoa, milk etc and £2 2s cheque sent by Hartley WI in total]

Thorn Robbed them of only Child

" 'A very sad case' was the comment of the Coroner at an inquest at Dartford on Mondy on William James Reginald Skinner, aged 7, of 3 Woodview, [117] Main Road, Longfield, who died from septicaemia after his mother had removed a thorn from his finger.  The mother Ethel May Skinner, said that on October 18th she saw her boy, an only child with 2 little girls in a hedge.  They were among hawthorn bushes.  They boy said he had not been picking berries, but she had seen him reaching up.  Later she noticed a red mark on one of his fingers and, after sterilising a needle, removed a thorn. She called in the district nurse, but the boy died on Thursday at midnight.  Dr C Ilderton-Ilderton of Meopham said the boy had a temperature of 103 degrees when he was called, and inflammation was spreading up his arm.  The district nurse later reported that the boy's condition showed improvement.  He (witness) was called on Thursday and the boy had then been dead a few minutes.  'It was quite unexpected,' he added.  Verdict - misadventure."

06 Nov 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Hill Cricket Averages

1937 season. P29 W15 D5 L9.  Top of batting averages A Wooding 27 innings 23.4 Higest score 106.  To of bowling averages D Woodward 27 overs, 14 wickets for 68 runs, average 4.9.

11 Nov 1937 Times

Holidays abroad

Mr & Mrs Middleton organising sports holidays to Braunwald, seek applicants to join "jolly party".

12 Nov 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Hartley Country Club

England Cricketer, Andy Sandham, visited Country Club

13 Nov 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) Council accept offer of posts and chains round the War Memorial and a seat in memory of her husband.  KM 11/12/37 approved by Dartford RDC.  (2) DRDC have agreed to recredit the money Hartley didn't spend on the Coronation.

Hartley Players Enhance their Reputation

Favourable review and picture of the cast of 'A Cuckoo in the Nest' held at the Country Club.

Auction Sale

"Messrs Porter Putt & Fletcher are instructed to submit to auction..... the freehold smallholding, comprising the brick and tiled bungalow known as Tor Lodge, Church Road, Hartley, Kent.  Situarted in a high and healthy position adjoining le Stocks Farm.  The accommodation comprises: Entrance passage, one reception room, kitchen with range, scullery, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and WC.  Standing in about 7 acres of land with numerous timber and brieze block poultry houses....."

Autumn Glory at Longfield Flower Show

At village hall, opened by Miss Fleet of Darenth Grange, list of main winners.  Includes picture of event with club officials R A Crouch, Canon Parker and W Wright with Mr A M Fleet and Miss Fleet.

19 Nov 1937 Dartford Chronicle

All Saints' Hartley, Roof

All Saints - new roof picture 26/11/1937

04 Dec 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Accident

"On Tuesday morning a car driven by Miss Walker of Wye, collided with one owned by Mr H Parkins of Hartley, near the Agricultural Co-operative Society's Stores, Ash Road.  The driver was badly cut about the face and her passenger sustained the loss of two teeth and broken fingers.  They were taken into the stores where first aid was given.  Both cars were badly damaged."

10 Dec 1937 Dartford Chronicle

Longfield Parish Meeting

Question about sale of cricket ground.  Messrs D & K Woodward said cricket club had first refusal "That condition is final and cannot be altered.  If that condition is not upheld, there won't be a sale".  Concerns about cost of fencing said to be as high as £100.

11 Dec 1937 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) "A letter was read from the rural council inviting suggestions for a name for the lane leading from Hartley Green to Fawkham.  The larger portion of the lane, it was stated  was in Fawkham, and was known to many residents there as Castle Hill, as years ago, the old Fawkham Castle near the parish church could be seen from it.  The Parish Council agreed that Castle Hill was a very appropriate name, and the clerk was asked to make this suggestion."  [KM 18/12/37  Frederick Welch of Hartley Green (Steep Hill Lane) said "such a name as Castle Hill seems now, 1937, an out of date relic of a long disappeared fortress!"  Steep Hill Lane would be better.  (2) "A letter was read from Mr G F Oldrey, drawing attention to the fact that two bungalows, which it was proposed to build on land adjoining his property, would darken a room in his house.  He asked whether the building might be put back a few feet.  Captain Bignell said he would speak to the surveyor on the subject."  [new houses would be Broughton and Sally Ann, Ash Road, Mr Oldrey's house was Ambleside]  (3) Parish Council in favour of 30mph speed limit being imposed on Hartley.

Parish Council Member Leaving

"Captain Partridge [pictured], who is leaving Longfield shortly to live at Bexleyheath has been a member of the parish council fo rthe past few years, and taken a prominent part in the activities of the Longfield Boys' Club.  He was formerly a member of Dunton Green Parish Council."

Paper of 18/12/1937 adds more details: lives at School House, Longfield for several years.  Founded the Boys' Club.  Member of well known Breconshire family.  Served with South Wales Borderers and in Great War was in the East and France with the Leicestershire regiment, including the heavy fighting at Passchendale.  He was wounded 3 times and gassed.  After the war he became an  army pensions officer for North Hampshire.

Maintenance Arrears

"At Dartford Police Court on Friday last week, Bernard William Wheeler was summoned for £8 2s arrears on a maintenance order granted to his wife Olive Amy Wheeler of Station Road, Longfield.  The wife said she obtained an order for 10s for herself and 5s for each of two children.  Wheeler, who said he had paid everything due, was sentenced to a month's imprisonment, but this was suspended while he paid the order and 2s 6d a week off arrears."

Council and Recreation Ground

" 'If you are going to have a very elaborate recreation ground, it will cost you a 2s rate,' said Mr A Adams, clerk to Longfield Parish Council, at aa meeting on Monday, when Mr E J Potter submitted questions likely to be asked at a proposed public meeting to consider the provision of a recreation ground at Longfield Hill.  'What is required,' he said, 'is a place to keep the children off the road.'  The land he said, would cost £800 and a loan at £850 was contemplated, to be paid back in 60 years with the equivalent of a 1½d rate.  Fencing and preparing the ground would cost about £100."

Kent Schoolmaster-Sportsman to Retire

"One of Kent's best known sportsmen, Mr William H Chase [pictured], will retire at the end of the month from the headmastership of Longfield Village School after 49 years in the teaching profession.  He is 63.

Formerly a well known soccer player and legislator, Mr Chase is now a prominent bowls player and has represented Kent at bowls in over 100 matches.  As a member of the Brasted Club he was runner up in the Kent singles championship in 1921 and was skipo fthe Sevenoaks rink that won the county title.  He has won numberious other honours at bowls, including the singles championship of the Bexleyheath Constitutional Club last summer.

Mr Chase began his career as a pupil teacher at his native Burnley when he was 14.  Despite his age, he had a class of 60 to look after!  Later he was at a half-time school.  The scholars worked in the pits and factories in the mornings, and had to go to school in the afternoons.  'They started work at 6am and finished 12.30pm,' he told the KM.  'They then attended school from 1.45pm until 4.45 and it was as much as a teacher could do to keep them awake.'

After his apprenticeship, Mr Chase went to Bangor Normal College, and then secured an appointment at Bacup.  He reivived Bacup FC and played for the club in the Lancashire League for 3 seasons.  Returning to Burnley, he founded the first day-schools football league in the North.  He played as a left back for Burnley FC in the English League, also assisted Burnley Belvedere, a famous amateur club in those days.

In 1905 he was appointed to the headmastership of Eastry Kent CofE school.  During his 5 years at Eatry he played as a goalkeeper for Deal Town, and they won the Kent Amateur Cup.  He was appointed headmaster of the new Council school at Dunton Green in 1910.  He helped to reform the village football club, and to start the Sevenoaks and District Schools' League.  His own school team was unbeaten for 2 seasons.  For 16 years Mr Chase was hon secretary of the Sevenoaks and District Football League, and the members made a presentation to him in 1924.

He was appointed a member of the Kent County FA in 1911, and that year also saw him made an English league and Southern league referee.  He secured the Kent FA long service medal 21 years later.  It was during his refereeing days that he became friendly with the late Mr Herbert Chapman, the famous Arsenal manager.  Only two days before he died Mr Chapman wrote to him.  Once, in a game between Plymouth Argyle and Bristol Rovers, Mr Chase had to be escorted off the field.  It was a Boxing Day and he abandoned the game shortly after half time owing to the wretched conditions. The crowd, which included many sailors, didn't appreciae the decision and raided the pitch.  Later he resumed playing for Dunton Green and recollects Frank Woolley, the famous cricketer, appearing at outside left for Tonbridge.  'Woolley was a better footballer than most people realise,' observed Mr Chase.  During the Great War, Mr Chase was a sergeant instructor in the RASC and organised motor transport in the Sevenoaks area.

Leaving Dunton Green in 1926, he spent 2 years as a supply teacher.  During this period he did duty at Longfield, and, on application, retained the headmastership.  In the past few years several Longfield children have gained scholarships, and at present 8 scholars from the village school hold free places in secondary schools.  Naturally Mr Chase is very proud of these achievements.  Mr Chase, whose family has for generations been associated with the teaching profession is to live his retirement at Bexleyheath.  He proposes to devote at good deal of his time to motoring and bowls.  Incidentally he has held a driving licence since 1901, and before that rode a penny-farthing bicycle."

Hot dinners for Threepence

"Visiting Longfield Village school the other day, I noticed a savoury odour in the air, and discovered it came from the kitchen.  Inside they were preparing Lancashire Hotpot, and if it tasted as good as it smelt the children enjoyed it.  On an average 50 dinners are served daily to the youngsters, and the scheme is greatly appreciated.  Many of the scholars travel long distances to the school and cannot get home during the lunch period.  It is comforting for parents to know that in these cold days the kiddies can have a hot mea.  Mr Chase the headmaster, told me that the cost per dinner is only threepence, and yet the scheme is self supporting.  The meals are substantialtoo, so it is evident that someone knows how to make a little money go a long way!