1940 News
History > Newspaper Stories 1900 - 2000 > 1940-1949
03 Jan 1940 Times
Price of Electricity
"Increased prices of electricity for consumers in many parts of Kent were announced yesterday by the West Kent Electricity Company, owing to increased costs. The revised rates will come into force in quarterly accounts after March 20, and in other accounts after January 1. For parts of Beckenham, Bromley, Dartford, Chislehurst, Sidcup, Crayford, Erith and Orpington the lighting flat rate will be 6d a unit, and the all-in rate ½d a unit. For undeveloped areas, inlcuding Ash, Chelsfield, Cudham, Darenth, Downe, Eynsford, Farningham, Fawkham, Hartley, Horton Kirby, Kingsdown, Knockholt, Longfield, Lullingstone, Ridley, Southfleet, Sutton at Hone and Wilmington, the lighting flat rate will be 7d a unit and the all-in rate 1d a unit. In both cases there is to be a 20 per cent increase on power supplies."
[The Times (22.9.1938) had previously announced the lighting flat rate for the rural areas was reduced from 6d to 5½d, so an increase to 7d was over 25%.]
06 Jan 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
A Week's Festivities
"The local and evacuee children of the village have been well catered for over the Christmas holidays. All the evacuees spent Christmas Day with their foster-parent and joined in the family festivities. On boxing Day the children helped to prepare the Village Hall for a big party. A play performed by local children, entitled 'Pantomime Unlimited' was under teh direction of Mr Goff, the headmaster of Longfield School, who has worked hard to make the week a success. This was follwed by another play, 'An Old Christmas' performed by evacuees. These were much appreciated by the audience. Mrs Goff and Mrs Heaver are to be congratulated on their arrangements for providing the tea. Games and community singing followed, and as the party broke up, each child was given a bag of sweets, apples and oranges, the apples being a gift from Mr Gain , of New Barn. The Village Hall was open every day for country dancing, games and small tea parties. Football was played in the Rectory Meadow. The week's festivities ended on Friday with a huge party for all the children, about 250 sitting down. After an excellent tea the evening was spent in community singing under the direction of Mr C Lynds. Mr George was at the piano. Tap dancing by Miss Cissie Wills was much enjoyed. The evening ended by a visit from Santa Claus (Mr Stan Acton). Each child received a present, and on going home received sweets and apples. Mrs Leigh and her helpers are to be congratulated on the arrangements for the tea. The party was given some of the proceeds of the concert held some weeks back."
Baker's Roundsman Wanted
"Male or Female. Apply Slater, Longfield, Kent"
Christmas Festivities
The Christmas Festivities at Hartley were organised by the evauated school staff with the very active cooperation of the village. On Wednesday last week, {NAME} and Norman Haybittle [Norman Dennis Haybittle of Bexley 1927-2002] won the treasure hunt. On Thursday 70 took part in the junior party. The senior party next day was attended by over 100 and the first item was the judging of the Scavenge Hunt which had lasted 2 days and drew a large number of competitors. Avril Stewart, Peter Stewart and Joy Allkins were the winners, with Joan Everett's group second. In the evening Mrs Harold Day, Miss Gillian Worsley and the pupils of Mrs Randall helped to entertain the children. Mr Edwin Langton, who was responsible for the organisation, thanked those who had helped to make the festival such a success, especially Mrs Fuller who supervised the catering, and Mr and Mrs Gay for their help at the Country Club. Quite a number of the children were in fancy dress and at a parade Frank Woodall was judged the winner.
20 Jan 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Short Weight in Sacks of Coal
"When Walter Sidney Walters of Station Road, Longfield, was summoned at Dartford Police Court on Friday, for selling short-weight sacks of coal, it was stated that police kept observations on his coalyard, with the result that a boy was to appear before the court for stealing.
Mr W A Elkington, inspector of weights and measures, said on December 19th he tested defendant's scale and found them to be correct. When two sacks of col from defendant's van were weighed they were found to be deficient. At defendant's yard, eleven sacks were weighed. One was 4lb overweight, but the others were a total of 51lb underweight. Defendant, when asked for an explanation, said his coalyard was open, and anyone could have access to it. He added that he was convinced someone must have taken coal from the sacks.
Defending, Mr Hugh Goff said defendant was surprised when he found the sacks were short weight and informed the police. Observation was kept on his yard, and as a result a boy was to appear at court for stealing coal. 'It appears to be a case where this man is the victim of circumstances,' Mr Goff added. Defendant, who was also said to be a licensee at Southfleet, was fined £2."
Foot and Mouth Disease
Southfleet, Longfield, Hartley, Ridley and Ash declared to be part of the infected area.
25 Jan 1940 Daily Gazette for Middlesbrough
175 Men Go Down with Destroyer
"The 1,475 ton destroyer flotilla leader Exmouth, which the Admiralty announced early today has been mined or torpedoed with the loss, it is feared, of all hands, is the second British destroyer to be sunk within a week, and the fifth since the war began. But it is the first in which there have been no survivors. There were some 175 officers and men abroad.
Just before Christmas the Exmouth's commander, Captain R S Benson, was awarded the DSO for successful action against enemy submarines in the flotilla leader.......
Captain Benson, who commanded HMS Montrose and the 40th Destroyer Flotilla at the Jubilee Naval Review, and from 1935 to 1937 the 8th Destroyer Flotilla on the China Station, returned to England three years ago to join the staff of the RN War College at Greenwich. He entered the Navy in 1905, and during the last war was a sub-lieutenant and Lieutenant in HMS Superb (Grand Fleet), until he was selected to specialise in gunnery in 1917. Later he served in HMS Royal Oak, which was sunk last October in Scapa Flow, in HMS Frobisher and in the Iron Duke, the sea going gunnery firing ship and Jellicoe's former flagship, which was bombed at Scapa last October. Captain Benson qualified as a staff officer in 1930, and attended courses at the Staff College and the Imperial Defence College. Captain Benson lived at Ash Manor, near Dartford. He leaves a wife, a son, who is also in the Navy, and a daughter."
03 Feb 1940 Gravesend Reporter
House for Sale at Hartley
Pilley & Talbot - Detached residence on high ground, conveniently situated, 3 bed, bathroom, 2 sitting rooms, kitchen, electric light, large garden. £675
10 Feb 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
English Folk Dance and Song Society
First AGM of Hartley and District Centre of Society. Miss Parker, president. Mrs Gates, secretary. 16 members attended county festival at Aylesford. Weekly meetings since outbreak of war, but war has prevented classes being set up.
Old Resident Laid to Rest
Funderal of Charles Lightfoot of Siding Cottages, Longfield, aged 88. Before retirement he was a signalman at Southwark's depot there.
Comforts for the Troops
"Longfield first aid point has been very busy knitting for the troops. Altogether 15 parcels have been sent off. The destinations and numbers of articles sent have been as follows: Royal Navy, 29 articles; Dover Patrol, 12; Deep Sea Fishermen 13, Army 49 knitted articles and in addition 29 separate gifts; RAF 10; a local anti-aircraft station 5; a local RAF man, 2. For the purchase of wool, direct contribution and the proceeds of socials have amounted to £17 7s 3d up to Jan 30th. Contributions will be gratefully received at Kent House by Mrs Gomer Davies, who is in charge of the Working Party."
16 Feb 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Faulty Car Lights at Hartley
John B Gayes [1916-1993] of Hartley Wood Corner - faulty car lights
17 Feb 1940 Daily Mirror
Hartley Comic
"I've brought back the stockings I had from you yesterday. They're too fast for me." "Too fast, what do you mean?" asked the shopkeeper. "Well, when I walk they run," answered the customer. Sent by Miss A Constant, Fairby Grange, Hartley, Dartford, Kent"
17 Feb 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Women's Constitutional Association
(Hartley) AGM. Membership 255. Decided to suspend subscriptions for the duration.
09 Mar 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Canteen Fund
"The School managers met on Monday to receive a report from the Canteen Fund sub-committee. The Rev L G W Lenton, at present home on leave from the BEF, was in the chair. In the absence, through illness of Mr E J Cuff [Edward James Cuff 1868-1941], chairman of the Canteen Committee, Mr Sizmur, Parish Council representative on the School Managers, reviewed the position to date. Though there had been considerable delay, he said, owing to the necessity of obtaining sanction and assistance from three different official bodies, they had now reached the point where the KEC had definitely promised to give equipment and other help, the permission of the Board of Education had been obtained, and plans and specification for the canteen kitchen extension had been prepared and passed by the Rural District Council. The fund collected locally would cover the erection of the kitchen on ground adjoining the school. Tenders were being invited and work could commence very shortly. Considerable satisfaction was expressed by the Managers with the work of the Canteen Fund Sub-Committee."
Cook Wanted at The Anchorage
Cook housekeeper wanted at Halfacre [now called The Anchorage], Ash Road, annual salary £50
Longfield Parish Council
(1) No elections for councillors during war, vacancies must be by co-option. (2) "Longfield residents will be able to take part in the National Savings Campaign by means of their own local organisation. Mr N Goff, headmaster of Longfield School announced.... he was willing to run a group. Mr Goff already has a Savings Club for the schoolchildren...."
Dartford Rural's new rate
Next year it will be 11s 6d in the pound. Increase largely down to expenditure on ARP.
15 Mar 1940 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)
Christmas Gifts for the Poor
"Mr Edwin John King, of Danemore Park, Speldhurst, late of Messrs Bullard King & Co Ltd, steamship owners and insurance agents, ship and forwarding agents, and on the London board of The Dundee Coal Co Ltd, who died on January 4th last, left gross estate of the value of £864,356 16s 4d with net personality £790,171 10s 11d on which £361,680 10s 1d estate duty has been paid.
In the will he left Danemore Park Estate, subject to his wife's life interest and £10,000 to the National Trust, but revoked this in a codicil of June 8, 1939 'in view of the heavy extra duties that have since the date of my will been imposed upon deceased's estates.'
He left £2,000 to the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for any benefice of the Rectory of Speldhurst with Groombridge, providing the Commissioners provide not less than £1,000 for the same purpose; £1,000 for the purpose of providing coal, meat and blankets every Christmas among the poor of Speldhurst with Groombridge; £1,000 to the Church Army; 10s per week to Violet Pesketh, his waitress at Baltic Exchange. To his daughter, Iris Nowell King, the advowsons, donations, rights of patronage and presentations of and to the Rectories of the Parish Churches of Hartley, Hadlow and Ryarsh.
Shirley Hall Estate, Langton Green, and his estate, Pashley, Ticehurst, Sussex, and certain mortgages held by him and £10,000 to his wife. Property in Chislehurst to his daughters Vera and Iris. Danemore Park Estate and other property and £ £40,000 for maintenance of his wife for life." [The Bank of England Inflation Calculator reckons £864,000 in 1940 is worth £51 million in 2021]
15 Mar 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) ARP - public shelter at junction of Hoselands Hill and Station Road, Longfield; and near Pepper Hill, Southfleet; (2) Hartley House - American Tea for wool to make sailors' comforts
16 Mar 1940 Kent Messenger
Speaking up for Pacifists
(Reply to KM's editorial fo previous week) "Before you proceed further with your 'relentless combat' against pacifist propaganda, may I ask you to consider that everyone has a conscience. Some people are very conscious of their consciences, but in others it lies burie dunder weight of outside conventions or by pressure of modern life. Nevertheless, there it is, in each man and woman. Al breaches of conscience are followed by regret and remorse.I am certain that all those putting ofrth the propaganda to which you object are only making an honest effort to save from remorse the many men whose consciences are already uneasy at their being faced with the prospect of assisting directly in war; and therefore feel they must do all they can to put forward their views against hte overwhelming weight of public opinion to enable such men to see both sides of the case. For if a man who is a conscientious objector at heart fails to obey his conscience courageously, remorse will follow. For it needs courage to proclaim the light as one sees it if 98 per cent of one's countrymen think otherwise; a moral courage which is by no means to be despised. And because it needs courage, isit so worng for pacifistss to help one another to face the ordeal of appearing before Tribunals?
Isn't it the usual thing for friends to help each other in difficulty? It may interest you to know that at one of the two mock tribunals I have atended the 'tribunal' was composed of non-pacifiists, and even you, sir, could not fail to have been impressed by the statements of the men 'examined.' A religious writer said last year that although to him pacifism was impracticable at present, he had no doubt that at this time God was calling some men to make this stand against war. If he is correct then in teh days when war is no more England will be as proud of those who stood out against it as she is of those who stood in the past agains other evils in spirt of opposition. Is it the business of the tribunals to make sure that every objector is genuine. Isn't it more patriotic to leave the sifting to them? W L Gates, Wild Garth, Fairby Lane, Hartley, Dartford."
Paper Replies "We agree. As we said last week, the genuine consientious objector has the nations's respect. We agree also that war is an abomination, but remember a mad dog is running riot in Europe. What else could Britain do but tackle it? Indeed, we feel inclined to wonder what members of the Peace Pledge Union would do if a mad dog burst into a room in which they were holding a meeting. Give it a leaflet? Or run?"
Hartley Doctor Attacks 'Conchies'
"Genuine congratulations to the two women writers, 'A Lover of Justice' and 'Fairplay' for putting the truth into plain English words. Having known two so-called conscientious objectors, neither of whom ever went to a religious service of any denomination although they laid their so called claims to religious belief, it certainly seems to me that there is a lot of humbug and nonsense talked by these selfish men. They are so much wrapped up on their own silly ideas that apparently they would be too selfish to make any effort to defend women who might be in danger should Britain be invaded. It does seem to me that such selfish or funky youths are not going to be any use to the British Empire. Frederick D Welch MRCS, Hartley, Longfield."
[Frederick Day Welch 1878-1953 lived at Dalesford, Castle Hill and is buried at Fawkham Church]
Hartley WI Meeting
"The March meeting attendance was a record for this year of 49.
Mrs McDonald was elected delegate to the West Kent Federation Annual Meeting, and 4 members drew for the one available visitor's ticket and Mrs J L Cook won it.
Mrs Townley, who presided, reported that 76 knitted garments had been finished for the services, other being on the way.
A demonstration 'Making the most of your rations' was carried out by Mrs McDonald, cookery representative, assisted by Miss Boutcher, Mrs Gates and Mrs Townley, showing successively easily prepared breakfasts that should conteract any tendancy to get out of bed the wrong side, savory meatless and near meatless dinners with the use of potato pastry, and sweets without sugar, also one for the day when it's 12:30 before you know where you are! For tea, cake without eggs, and even jam without sugar were produced. Two excellent recipes for supper dishes concluded the demonstration.
Moving a vote of thanks, Miss Robertson expressed appreciation of these 4 talented members of whom the Institue was proud. The motion was carried with enthusisam."
Hartley WI Meeting
Chickens for sale
"Buff rocks, black leghorns, sittings of eggs from healthy stock, 5s 6d. Apply Mrs Stickland, Old Downs, Hartley"
"
""The Annual General Meeting of the Southern Railway Company was held yesterday at Southern House, Cannon Street Station, London EC. Mr Robert Holland-Martin CB (the Chairman of the Company) presided....
The Chairman, who was received with applause said: ........
Electrification of lines - In listening to the story I have to tell you I want you to remember that, unlike the other three main line railways, the Southern is essentially a passenger as opposed to a goods line. In normal times we used to reckon that 75% of our traffics came from passengers and only 25% from goods.
We have no large manufacturing cities on our system, which owes its success to the far sighted way in which its general managers have always sought to improve the communications between the dormitory towns and the City and to encourage those who work in the City to spend their holidays in the health towns on the sunny outher coast or on visits to the Continent. To that far sightedness is due not only the enormous increase of population that has taken place in South London but also the continual growth of the attractive coast towns which have been placed on the map by ease of access.
To meet that growth and to carry that increasing population we have continued to electrify our lines and to make new ones. On January 1, 1939 we brought into use the lines from Virginia Water to Reading, Ascot and Pirbright Junction, and Frimley to Guildford via Aldershot. By this electrificaion we were able to improve the services operated considerably, increasing by 58% the mileage worked on this section.
Our second scheme for the year, which completed the plans we had given the public, was the electrification of the lines from Gravesend Central to Maidstone West, Swanley to Gillingham, Strood Junction to Rochester Junction, and Otford Junction to Maidstone East, which were opened by the Minister of Transport on the introduction of the summer train service in last July. By this electrification improved services were operated on two ore sections of the line - namely Charing Cross to Maidstone West, and Victoria to Maidstone East and Gillingham, with a resulting increase of 42.7% in the train mileage on these sections.
During the 5 years allocated to certain schemes of electrification your railway had electrified 267 route miles - 619 track miles - and built 828 electric vehicles at a cost of £8.5m making in July last the total number of Southern electrified route miles 709 with 1,760 track miles.
Chatham and Gillingham Electrification -
21 Mar 1940 The Times
Southern Railway Company Annual General Meeting
""The Annual General Meeting of the Southern Railway Company was held yesterday at Southern House, Cannon Street Station, London EC. Mr Robert Holland-Martin CB (the Chairman of the Company) presided....
The Chairman, who was received with applause said: ........
Electrification of lines - In listening to the story I have to tell you I want you to remember that, unlike the other three main line railways, the Southern is essentially a passenger as opposed to a goods line. In normal times we used to reckon that 75% of our traffics came from passengers and only 25% from goods.
We have no large manufacturing cities on our system, which owes its success to the far sighted way in which its general managers have always sought to improve the communications between the dormitory towns and the City and to encourage those who work in the City to spend their holidays in the health towns on the sunny outher coast or on visits to the Continent. To that far sightedness is due not only the enormous increase of population that has taken place in South London but also the continual growth of the attractive coast towns which have been placed on the map by ease of access.
To meet that growth and to carry that increasing population we have continued to electrify our lines and to make new ones. On January 1, 1939 we brought into use the lines from Virginia Water to Reading, Ascot and Pirbright Junction, and Frimley to Guildford via Aldershot. By this electrificaion we were able to improve the services operated considerably, increasing by 58% the mileage worked on this section.
Our second scheme for the year, which completed the plans we had given the public, was the electrification of the lines from Gravesend Central to Maidstone West, Swanley to Gillingham, Strood Junction to Rochester Junction, and Otford Junction to Maidstone East, which were opened by the Minister of Transport on the introduction of the summer train service in last July. By this electrification improved services were operated on two ore sections of the line - namely Charing Cross to Maidstone West, and Victoria to Maidstone East and Gillingham, with a resulting increase of 42.7% in the train mileage on these sections.
During the 5 years allocated to certain schemes of electrification your railway had electrified 267 route miles - 619 track miles - and built 828 electric vehicles at a cost of £8.5m making in July last the total number of Southern electrified route miles 709 with 1,760 track miles.
Chatham and Gillingham Electrification -
One bright spot was the result of the first two months' working of the Chatham and Gillingham extension, which showed an increase of 54,000 passengers and £4,000 in receipts, an increase of 8%. In the whole electrified area the volume of traffic was 195,000,000 passenger journeys, bringing in £6.1m, an increase of 2.3%.""
"
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22 Mar 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Restrictions on certain kinds of cultivation; (2) Kent Messenger: Air raid sirens to be tested in Kent on Sunday 31st March at 9.30am. Details of how to tell if it is a real raid at the same time.
29 Mar 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Unnecessary' Spending on ARP
Parish council complains of "unneccessary" expense of ARP Wardens
30 Mar 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
ARP's Talkies
The Village Hall was again filled at the weekly talkie show. There are now 2 shows 6-8pm and 8-10pm. This is more convenient for the children and those who use the buses. These talkie shows are arranged by the ARP Committee."
Parish Assembly (Hartley)
12 attended. Mr Edward absent due to his firm's relocation from London. (1) Mr DTR Gray asked why local people weren't consulted on recent road renaming [Presumably Castle Hill is meant]. Reply was it was suggested by the Post Office and Fawkham were keener on the idea than Hartley. Meeting agreed that road name changes should be decided at Parish Meetings. (2) Mr Gray also proposed that ARP wardens should not be paid as was the case at the outset, this was passed 5-3 (Hartley had 2 paid wardens). (3) "Following the growth of population in the Gorse Wood area the question of public footpaths was again discussed on a question concerning a path which had been closed by a wire fence."
05 Apr 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Easter Activities for evacuees; (2) Chantry Cottage, Stack Lane - knitting party for sailors' comforts
06 Apr 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Refugee Association
"In the WI Hall last Saturday, Mr Charles Sizmur presided over the first annual meeting of the Association. The chairman stressed the value of the Association's work and said that subscribers should feel proud of the fact that they had rescued one alien child from persecution. Mr G B Davies, treasurer, stated the total subscribed was £80 1s 3d, and that there was a balance in hand of £27 4s 7d of which £8 15s was unlikely to recur. In her report the secretary, Mrs Gates, explained that an education fund was being kept distinct from the general fund, because some people did not wish to subscribe to education. £10 pa had therefore been earmarked for this purpose, but only £9 9s 10d had actually been used. She gave a personal report of the boy's social and educational activities. The meeting was surprised to learn that he had come first in English, Maths, History and Geography. Mrs Gates read a letter from the boy's mother, expressing her deep appreciation for all that was being done by the Association on his behalf. A vote of thanks to the collectors was passed. Officers and committee for 1940 were reelected as follows: Chairman - Mr Chas Sizmur; Hon Treasurer - Mr Gomer B Davies; Hon Sec - Mrs Gates; Committee - Miss Armstrong, Mrs Sizmur, Mrs Townley, Mr Comont and Mr Gates. Mr Benson was appointed Hon Auditor."
Hartley Book Club
Report of meeting.
'Bombs' on Ash
ARP exercise. "...A fire patrol was first called into action to deal with the attempted 'bombing' of the White Swan. 5 people sustained slight 'injuries' when an explosion occurred near the REctory, while the Emergency Ambulance and a first aid party set out to deal with an unexpected call from Swanley at the same time. The first really serious casualty was when a 'bomb' fell on a cross roads. He was whisked away to headquarters at Horton Kirby for treatment; another 5 not so badly injured, were taken to the local post for treatment. There they found the building in 'ruins' so they evacuated to the nearby Special Police HQ. The result of the exercises was satisfactory though all units would benefit from more frequent and smaller scale test on their own to give experience. A striking aspect of the test was the creditable work of the ladies in the ARP services."
12 Apr 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) To let: Gossy Croft, Hartley Hill - £52 pa; (2) Dudley Sizer [1905-1981] of 1 Church Rd - speeding; (3) Dartford Chronicle to be reduced to 8 pages due to newsprint rationing
13 Apr 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Agricultural Co-Op Society
AGM. Mr Bartholemew reelected chairman. Turnover down at £10,500 but profits up from £729 to £758. Availability of feeding stuffs a concern, customers told to give good notice of orders.
ARP Exercise
"Great excitement was caused in Main Road, Longfield, on Sunday morning. A 'gas bomb' fell outside the Retreat Stores [The Elms] and was promptly dealt with by the decontamination squad. There were no 'casualties'."
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Buses, LPTB to be asked why the fare from Gravesend to Pescot is 7d on the 490 but only 6d on the 451 and that 6d fare stage goes up to the Railway Tavern. (2) Roads. PC asks KCC to have white traffic lines painted on roads. (3) Council Quorum to be reduced from 5 to 3.
27 Apr 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Death of Elizabeth Low
Of Dawsland, Church Road, aged 70. Born at Billet Farm, sister of Harold Glover of Hartley Bottom Farm. Leaves widower and 3 married daughters.
Dramatic Performance
'Husbands are a Problem' by Longfield Social and Dramatic Society at Village Hall.
Hartley WI
"The Drama Group gave fine performance of two one act plays in aid of Institute funds on Thursday last week before a large and enthusiastic audience. (1) Favour is Deceitful (2) Can the Leopard
04 May 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Late Alfred George Jarrett
Of [5] Elm Terrace, aged 81, lived there 37 years and worked on Southern Ralway 43 years. Before that he lived in Northfleet and was a thatcher and gardener. "By an express wish he was carried from his son's house in Essex Road by officers and members of the local branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows Manchester Unity. Died at County Hospital, Dartford
Barnardo Day
"The collection in Hartley amounted to £4 1s 11d, the helpers being Mrs Barrow, Joan Everett and friend, Jean and Peter Goodwin, Harry Leucht, Mrs MacKenzie, Mrs Sephton." [Harry Leucht was the Austrian being supported by the Hartley Refugee Association]
10 May 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) WI Preserves Club has applied for 38 cwt of sugar (see also 12/26.7.40); (2) Elsa Benham's stage show for evacuees' canteen
11 May 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
"Longfield Women, whose husbands are in the services are to be assisted with their gardens and allotments. The parish council, at a meeting on Monday, agreed to form a joint committee with the Longfield Cottage Gardeners' Association to promote the scheme." [Paper of 25/5/1940 reported that Mr Goff the headmaster said 8 older boys at the school had offered to help]
Dartford RDC
(1) Cllr Rev Stanley Morgan said they were reducing social services but apparently have the same number of staff, reply was they are being redeployed to things like ARP and billeting. (2) "The Managers of Hartley CofE School have applied for a grant towards the cost of a canteen at the school, the need for which was chiefly on account of evacuees. It had been recommended that a grant of £25 be made, subject to an assurance from the Minister of Health that the money would be reimbursed as an evacuation expense. A letter was now received stating that the Minister was unable to approve the grant, and it was decided to presss the Kent Education Committee to provide a canteen immediately."
18 May 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Keston Nusery
Tomato plants, hundredfold, Market King, Essex Wonder 3/6, 3/-, 2/- a dozen. 60 cucumber plants Conqueror Keston, Church Road"
Marriage at Hartley All Saints
Conducted by Canon Wallis, of Katherine McDonald [1919-1983] of Newbury, Ash Road to Ronald Lynds [1917-2005] of Longfield. Reception at Newbury, Ash Road, groom returned immediately to regiment.
24 May 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Obituary of Alice Maud Fitzroy-Mundy
Obituary of Alice Maud Fitzroy-Mundy of The Bungalow, Church Road (84)
25 May 1940 Kent Messenger
His Forge is Closed
"43 Years a Northfleet Blacksmith
Mr Elvy William Cooper, who for 43 years worked in the two centuries old smithy in Old Perry Street, Northfleet was buried at Gravesend Cemetery on Wednesday, following a service at All Saints' Perry Street, where he had worshipped for many years and used to sing in the choir. Mr Cooper lived at the cottage next to the smithy. He died on Friday last week, aged 77.
Because of ill health he gave up work at the end of March. Now the forge, a landmark in the district for so long, is closed.
Mr Cooper had been a blacksmith over 60 years and had owned the Perry Street forge for 16 years. Previously he worked for Mr H Livings and afterwards for his son. When he went to work for Mr Livings, five men were employed there, but in recent months he had been assisted only by his brother.
Son of a blacksmith who worked at the old Hartley forge for 55 years, Mr Cooper worked at Green Street Green, near Longfield, before coming to Perry Street.
There is a widow and one son."
25 May 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Pilot Officer Missing
"Mr and Mrs Charles Appleton of The Stoep, Fairby Lane, Hartley, learned on Saturday that their son PO Llewellyn Lister Appleton RAF [pictured] is reported missing. While notihing is yet known of the circumstances in which his plane was lost, they still continue to hope for his ultimate safety. PO Appleton joined the RAF 2 years ago when he was 21. He was home on leave at Easter, and again a fortnight ago." [According to the Gravesend Reporter 11/10/1958 "On May 12th 1940, he went out on patrol over Belgium. He did not return."]
Obituary
Of Mrs Kate Hills of Clewer, [25] Fawkham Road, aged 68. Leaves husband and one daughter. [KM (MT) 1/6/1940 born and lived in Longfield all her work]
Silly Rumours in Gravesend
Paper debunks ridiculous rumours that the Kaiser had escaped from Holland and was staying in the Clarendon Hotel, and that Rev S Lister, head of Gravesend County School for Boys and Chief ARP warden had been interned, they think the gossips had mixed up his recent ordination! "People who give credence to such rumours or help to circulate them, are playing the enemy game, which is to cause confusion and mistrust among us."
His forge is closed
"43 Years a Northfleet Blacksmith
Mr Elvy William Cooper, who for 43 years worked in the two centuries old smithy in Old Perry Street, Northfleet was buried at Gravesend Cemetery on Wednesday, following a service at All Saints' Perry Street, where he had worshipped for many years and used to sing in the choir. Mr Cooper lived at the cottage next to the smithy. He died on Friday last week, aged 77.
Because of ill health he gave up work at the end of March. Now the forge, a landmark in the district for so long, is closed.
Mr Cooper had been a blacksmith over 60 years and had owned the Perry Street forge for 16 years. Previously he worked for Mr H Livings and afterwards for his son. When he went to work for Mr Livings, five men were employed there, but in recent months he had been assisted only by his brother.
Son of a blacksmith who worked at the old Hartley forge for 55 years, Mr Cooper worked at Green Street Green, near Longfield, before coming to Perry Street.
There is a widow and one son."
31 May 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Land Girls - picture of them feeding cattle at a Hartley farm; (2) Mr Langton, evacuees' headmaster, recalled to Eitham by LCC
01 Jun 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Husband Ordered to Prison
// "When John Butler of Bridgend, Glamorgan, was charged at Dartford Police Court on Monday with being £1,089 in arrears on a wife maintenance orde, the magistrates remitted £1,000 and sent him to prison for one month in respect of the £89. The order was made in 1932 for £2 15s a week. The wife, Mrs Gladys May Butler of Knightsbridge, formerly lived at Hartley. Butler told the magistrates: 'My wife made out I was a wealthy man, but was not earning 10s a week. The boot was on the other foot, it was my wife who was wealthy, not me. My wife and children knew where I was."07 Jun 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Aliens Banned from Rural District
Dartford RDC - aliens banned from area
14 Jun 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Savings Group considered; (2) Obituary of Margaret E Elliott of St Johns Lane (69); (3) Burglary at Meadow Cottage, home of Col Francis Willes
15 Jun 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Council
"Parish Council: On Thursday last week Mr Sizmur presided. The Rural Council wrote requesting the parishes to remove all public display of parish maps. There were none such in Hartley, but the Council decided to take steps for the removal of the name of Hartley from all signs on shops, churches and other buildings, the chairman undertaking this duty. Advice was received from the Postmaster General that under present conditions it was impossible to meet the requet for later afternoon collections. The widening of St John's Lane was agreed to in principle by the Kent County Council, and the clerk was instructed to press the Rural Council to pursue the matter with the county authorities. The Parish Council has always felt that the widening throughout was the only safe way and the public spirited action of Mr Hoath of Hartley Grange, in offering a 12 foot strip has greatly facilitated the project. The "Dig for Victory" campaign was again considered. It was felt that Hartley is doing its duty, and the clerk reported that no applications for allotments had been received. This offer is still open for any of the fewe who have no plot to cultivate."
Stole a Pistol
"John William Hollands [1922-2001] (18) of [7] Elm Terrace, Station Road, Longfield and a boy of 13 were bound over on condition that they did not associate, for stealing a pistol and other property belonging ot Col F C Wills, Meadow Cottage, Hartley. Charles James Hollands [1892-1956] (49) father of J W Hollands was fined £3 for receiving the pistol and an oak clock and not having a firearm certificate." [John was up before the bench the following week and fined 5s and £2 10s damages for criminal damage at Pinden]
Table Rabbits (ad)
"Ensure your meat supply whatever the circumstances. Reliable breed. Does in kindle, 15/-, 17/6, 20/-, 25/- each according to size. Youngsters for fattening 4 for 10/6. All carriage paid approval. Mrs Danecourt, Glebe Cottage, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."
22 Jun 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Salvage of Waste Material
"Arrangements have been made by the Parish Council for a dump for old iron in the field of Mr Len Harris [Beulah?], Stack Lane. This will be collected by the senior boys of the day school, under direction of Mr Sizmur, chairman of the Parish Council, a barrow having been provided by the Rural Council."
Death of Mrs Alice May Rogers
Aged 29, wife of Fred of 2 Valley Villas [209 Main Road], who died in childbirth of a baby son.
Cigarettes for the Troops
"Longfield men serviing in the forces will be sent cigarettes if they communicae with Kent House, Longfield. Funds for the scheme, which is run by Longfield Dramatic Society, are being raised by social events."
28 Jun 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Forces Comforts
Treveor [now Westfield Lodge], garden party for forces comforts attended by 100
29 Jun 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Death of Miss Minnie Guzder
"The death occurred last Thursday in London of Miss Minnie Guzder of The Slides, North Ash. Miss Guzder, who was an Indian lady, had resided in Ash for 5 years. Here she spent most of her time among her animals, of whom she was passionately fond. At one time her pets included goats, chickens, a dog and 20 cats. She was a well known and respected figure in Anglo-Indian Society in London."
Alarming Experience
"Mrs Rose Goodman of the White Swan Ash had an alarming experience recently while travelling by train from Chatham. The only occupant of a carriage, she was startled by a crash and breaking of glass and realised that the window was splintered and the blind torn. Pieces of the broken pane were scattered over her and her face was covered with powdered glass. She reported the matter to the railway authorities."
Scholar's Success
"Kenneth Tomkins of Ash Church School [1929-2009. Lived at 13 Butler's Place] has won a special place at Gravesend Boys' County School."
05 Jul 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Experimental Dartford RDC scrap metal dump at Hartley; (2) Soldier killed in motor accident on Hoselands Hill
06 Jul 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Shopping not Barred!
Gravesend traders want to make it clear that although the borough is classed as a defence area, it doesn't stop people coming from outside to do their shopping.
Obituary of Stanley Charles Gordon Bridger
Aged 30 of Sutton at Hone. "Only a month to the day after his marriage... [he] met a tragic death at Gravesend on Saturday... A tractor driver he was engaged in ploughing land when he met with a fatal accident....He had always been engaged in agricultural work, and for several years was in the employ of Mr W Chaplin, driving first horses, and later tractors. For the past 4 years his employer had been Mr Ellerby, agricultural contractor of Hartley, for whom he had driven tractors in various parts of the county...."
13 Jul 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
WI Surplus Fruit Scheme
Ash and Hartley Wis have formed a joint committee to deal with the preservation of surplus fruit. The scheme came into operation from Friday last week, and the committee is open to receive produce at the Hartley Institute every Tuesday and Friday between 9 and 10am. A certain amount of sugar has been allowed, and the fruit will be bought at market prices. It will be made into jam and bottled in syrup and will then be available for purchase. On Friday members of the two institutes, under the supervision of Mrs Gates, of Hartley, made over 100lb of jam and jelly. All the fruit offered for sale to the depot was in perfect condition, resulting in first class produce. Orders for jam and bottled fruit may be placed with the depot ord sent to the Hon Sec Mrs W Simmons, Hillside, Ash."
20 Jul 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Fairby High School Sports Day at Hartley
"On Wednesday afternoon may parents were present at the annual sports day at Fairby High School, Hartley, and the event proved in every way a success.
A gymnastic display was given by the pupils under the direction of Miss Betty Appleton. Tea was served on the lawn.
The sports programme consisted of races, obtacle races, long and high jumps. Among many prize-winners the following especially distinguished themselves: - Juniors: Mollie Edwards, Thomas Hemesley. Seniors: Marie Colley, Sheila Hale, Pamela Gorringe, Brian Delf, David Robson. Prizes were also awarded to scholars for horticultural work.
The Headmistress, Mrs Appleton MSC [May Florence Grace Appleton 1886-1966] distributed the prizes, thus bringing the proceedings and school year to a close. A short summer school will be held from August 5th to September 14th, and the autumn term proper will begin on September 30th."
Dartford's New Telephone Exchange
"The new automatic telephone exchange came into operation at Dartford on Wednesday. As a result the 1,450 subscribers will now be able to make most of their calls without the assistance of an operator. The new three storey building at the rear of the Post Office in Hythe Street can accommodate 1,900 lines and space is available to cater for 4,000 lines."
20 Jul 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Lady Justly Indignant
"A Hartley correspondent, who says she is a widow with no pension, is feeling justly indignant because someone has stolen from her home a white enamel bowl full of blackcurrants. She has written to tell the KM about it because she wants the culprit to know that the fruit was intended for the canteen at Longfield School. I hope that whoever purlioned the bowl of currants reads this and feels thoroughly ashamed of such a mean and petty theft."
27 Jul 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Gnat Nuisance at Ash
"Parish Council to Seek Advice - Dump Competition with Hartley
At the quarterly meeting of Ash Parish Council, hled in the parish hall on Thursday…. A pamphlet from the Small Pig Keepers' Council was next dealt with and the advisability of village dwellers rearing pigs was discussed - Councillor Coles pointed out that whereas the government urged the small man to keep pigs against this was the BBC announcement urgint hte necessity of cutting down stocks owing to food shortage. The chairman said he considered that the idea was that a small stock could be fed on house scraps, but doubted whether this were possible in a scattered district like Ash. Cllr Goodwin agreed, observing that in the country districts there were few hotels or restaurants to provide waste material.
The chiarman dealt with a report which he had received stating that children were being bitten by gnats. The bites were severe ones. In the doctor's opinion the gnats were produced by stagnant pools. Children were in the habit of playing by a pool at the foot of Billet Hill. He asked for obeservations. Cllr Meadway replied that the pool had been there for 40 or 50 years and that children were repeatedly discouraged but would not stay away. Cllr Coles pointed out in discussion that the pool could not be done away with as it was necessary for drainage - water would run down into Fawkham Green. He added that it was cleaned out yearly and he did not understand how it could attact mosquitoes or gnats. The clerk suggested the doctor's advice be sought and this was agreed.
Dartford Rural Council having decided to collect refuse from the whole district, Cllr Goodwin pointed out that this would bring the rural parishes under the General Sanitary Rate....
Cllr Goodwin said that the RDC had set aside the first week in August for a 'Dump Week'. No dust collection would be made, but salvage collected. He went on to say that Hartley had improved on the 'dump' idea by one of its councillors having made a personal door to door collection with a barrow (laughter). The chairman: We'll beat Hartley. I'll collect old iron myself or have a dump on my own land (more laughter). Cllr Goodwin stressed the point that old bones as well as old iron were important items of salvage. The council agreed on a door to door collection in the first week of August. The chairman declared that Ash war effort should have a local headquarters and suggested that the parish council might have been approached. 'We've never been approached about anything except pig keeping!' (laughter)
A number of organisations had branches in Ash, but were all working independently, and he felt that they ought to be centralised and publicised, 'What is Ash doing in the war'. Cllr Goodwin pointed out the various work being carried on by local bodies and said he though they were doing very well. The Chairman: I still think we should have one central control. Cllr Goodwin retorted that he though the Parish Council was to blame for not having taken the lead in the first place. The Chairman said local branches of organisations should keep in close touch with their own council as well as with their own national headquarters."
US and Kent Villages
"Members of Hartley Women's Institute, which is allied to Ash branch in a joint effort for the Fruit Preservation Scheme - had the distinction, in conjunction with their 'ally' of being interviewed for the American Press. Pictures of them at work will be published in 'Life' the famous New York magazine, when America tells America how English women are working for victory."
27 Jul 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Meopham Wedding
Bridegroom George William Parker of Camer Gardens received bedroom clock from his colleagues at Fawkham Station. He is in the Home Guard.
Ash Wedding
Between Richard Stirk of Blackheath and Esther Ripley youngest daughter of Mr and Mrs Ripley of Hayes Cottages, Hartley. Reception at Ash Parish Hall featured "a novelty in wedding cakes - a three-tier cake surmounted by a coloured replica of a bride and bridegroom, was cut by the bride." They will live in Crayford.
02 Aug 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Failed to Empty Cesspool
"H S West (trading as West and Son) of Station Road, Swanley, was fined £2 and £3 3s costs on Friday, for failing to comply with a notice requiring him to empty a cesspool in connection with houses at 1 & 2 Jubilee Parade [Ash Road], Hartley." (also in Kent Messenger 3.8.40)
03 Aug 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Presentation to Mrs Cromar
"The presentation of a substantial cheque from 85 subscribers on the electoral roll of Longfield Parish Church to Mrs Cromar [1866-1942], of Merton House, Hartley, was made by the Rector Canon W Parker, recently, with the following accompanying letter signed on their behalf by the Rector and Churchwardens, Messrs F Crouch and F A Lancashire: 'Dear Mrs Cromar - on behalf of the Longfield Parochial Church Council we ask you acceptance of the enclosed cheque as a token of the appreciation in which your work as Secretary of the Council fromt he time of its inauguration [1921], is held by all the subscribers whose names are appended. Your devotion to the work, the care you have taken in its efficient performance, and the interest you have shown in all the activities of the council, as indeed of the church generally, are known to us all, and it was a matter of deep regret to us that the time had come when you felt obliged to pass on the reseponsibilities of your office to another. Our earnest prayer is that you may be given health and strength for many years, to share in our church life and share with us your knowledge of the working of the PCC.'
Mrs Cromar, in acknowledging this letter and the gift, expressed her appreciation and gratitude to all subscribers, and hoped that, as she was unable to thank them individually, they would accept the publication of her thanks in the magazine. With the list of their names in her possession her gratitude to suscribers was personal.
Many will regret that the subscription list was not open to the public, for Mrs Cromar's activities have not been confined to church work only. Born at Brentford, she came to Hartley some 45 years ago as head teacher of the Hartley CE Schools, but after 14 years of highly appreciated service in that capacity, a breakdown in health compelled retirement. Regaining her health, she started a private school at Merton House, and it was quickly filled with pupils, but later it was found necessary to reduce the number owing to pressure of work in her husband's office, work that required special knowledge that she possessed. Monday last was the 44th anniversary of her marriage to Mr Alfred Cromar, who for 50 years was the organist and choirmaster at Longfield Church. He died 8 years ago. Mrs Cromar was for a period of 5 years president of the Hartley Women's Constitutional Association [=Conservative Party], and is now, and ever since its inauguration, has been the Enrolling Member of the Longfield branch of the Mothers' Union.
All residents in the district will join in the prayer of the Rector and his council that health and strength be given her for many years."
03 Aug 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Man wanted
"with experience Market Garden, fruit, flowers etc; live out - Apply Woodlands, Hartley, Longfield."
10 Aug 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Hartley Bonfire Tragedy
"Only Child fatally burned at play - Sad Inquest Story.
9 year old John Sandall Phillips, only child of Mr and Mrs C J Phillips of Trevone, Ash Road, Hartley, threw paraffin onto a smoundering bonfire while playing in the garden of a friend's home on Friday afternoon. The fire blazed up and the lad's clothing became a mass of flames. H ran screaming through the garden and into the house where a mat was thrown round him to smother the flames. Afterwards he was rushed to the Livingstone Hospital, Dartford, but his burns were so severe that he died the same night. The tragic story was told at the inquest at Dartford Fire Station on Wednesday morning, when the Deputy Coroner (Mr W A Thomson) praised 70 year old Mrs Lavinia Pulford, who was staying at the house where the tragedy occurred, for the manner in which she tended the burned child.
The mother, Ethel Rose Phillips, who was greatly distressed, told the Coroner that the boy, who was on holiday from school, left home on his bicycle on Friday afternoon to visit a friend who lived a short distance away. At about half past five she heard that he had been hurt and was at Mrs Ball's house half a mile away. She went there at once and found that the doctor was taking her boy to hospital. She went with them and stayed there until the boy died the same night. The Coroner: was he able to tell you anything abou it or was he unconscious? Witness: He was not unconscious but he did not say anything. Have you ever had occasion to warn him about playing with matches or fire? - No.
Dr E Sells of Park Road, Dartford, said that when the lad was admitted to the Livingstone Hospital on Friday evening he was suffering from very severe burns and grave shock. He was in a stupor and rambling. The arms and chest, back, buttocks and thighs were burned. The boy died at 10pm, the cause of death being shock from burns.
8 year old Peter William Ball, of Hasleholt, Hartley, who sat on his father's knee while giving evidence, said that John Phillips came to his house just after 3 o'clock on Friday afternoon. They played in the garage first and then went into the garden. John suggested they shoudl have a bonfire. They got a box of matches which they had played with on previous occasions and which they had hidden on the rafters of the shed. 'We were going to make the fire ina bucket,' witness continued, 'We put some wood and twigs in it and then John tried to light them with a match. We could not get them to lilght so we went to the shed and got some paraffin. We empied some into a paint tin and John carried it to the fire, which was just smouldering. John poured the paraffin on and it blazed up and caught his clothing alight. John screamed and ran up the garden towards the house. His clothes were blazing.' The Coroner: Have your father and mother ever told you not to touch the paraffin? Witness - yes. And not to play with matches? - Yes.
Lavinia Julia Pulford said she had been staying at Hasleholt, Hartley, and Peter Ball was her nephew. She was in the kitchen preparing tea on Friday afternoon, when she heard screams coming from the garden. 'I ran out at once,' witness continued, 'but I could not see the children. I got on to the air raid shelter and saw John Phillips coming down the garden in flames. He ran into the kitchen and I followed him and put a mat round him to smother the flames. There was not a thing left on him except the band of his knickers. Everything else was burnt off.' Witness said she applied tannic acid and wrapped a cloth round the boy. She sent for the doctor, who arrived in a few minutes with a nurse and dressed the burns. The doctor then took the boy to the Livingstone Hospital. The Coroner said he would like to compliment Mrs Pulford on the prompt and efficient aid she rendered, 'You did very well indeed,' he said.
PC Knight, Longfield, said that after he had been informed of the child's death on Saturday, he visited Hasleholt. At the bottom of the garden he found a pail blackened by smoke and a paint tin which had also been blackened. There were burnt twigs lying about the ground near the pail. In the garage witness saw a petrol can containing a quantity of paraffin. Witness said that Mr Ball informed him that both boys had been warned not to touch paraffin or matches.
In returning a verdict of death from misadventure, the Coroner described it as a very sad case and expressed sympathy with the bereaved parents in the loss of their only child."
[Paper of 17.8.40 reports on funeral at All Saints' church, large list of floral tributes from family and friends, includes one from Merton House School]
Parish Council
"…The Clerk reported an interview with the local Tithe Collector in regard to a claim for exxtraordinary tithe on the council's site in Foxborough Wood. The Council are still in doubt as to the legality of the claim, and the discussion was postponed pending further research.
The chairman stated he had received several complaints as to discolouration of water from the mains, but expressed his opinion that it could be avoided by proper handling of the taps.
It was resolved that Mr Chas Sizmur, chairman of the parish council, be appointed to represent the council, and Mr Parkin, the parishioners, on the Dartford and District Youth Committee.
The chairman reported he had removed the inscribed plate from the War Memorial, and it was decided that it should be in the clerk's care until the end of the war.
The chairman further reported that some 4 or 5 tons of scrap metal had been collected and was ready for removal and disposal by the Rural District Council."
10 Aug 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Newsboys' Outing
"Instead of their annual trip to the sea, the newsboys of Messrs Redman and Millner, paid a visit to the Palladium to see Garrison Theatre on Wednesday last week. A party of 14 had an enjoyable time and were entertained to tea."
Longfield Parish Council
They have received a letter from London firm of accountants offering £650 for 7 acres of land at Whitehill so long as it was free of all restrictions. Council wrote back to ask why they wanted it.
Wedding at Watford
At Watford of Ronald Charles Simes [1918-2000] of St Johns Cottage, [32] Station Road to Joan Mary Barker of Watford. Conducted by deaf and dumb minister because bride is deaf and dumb and groom suffers from dumbness.
Longfield Fireman Weds
"Mr James A Sales [1901-1958], son of Mrs Mancer, [49] Kent Road, Longfield was married at Longfield Parish Church on Saturday to Miss Lilian E Caller [1903-1985], daughter of Mrs Caller, 4 St George's Cottages, [20] Whitehill Road. Canon W Parker conducted the service. The groom is a popular member of the Longfield AFS....."
16 Aug 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Obituary of Mrs Faith Temple of Oaklands, Church Rd (56); (2) 4-5 tons of scrap metal collected in Hartley
17 Aug 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Resisted Mr Winston Churchill
"Popular Licensee Retires
When Mr William Cox, licensee for the past 8 years of the 'Black Lion' at Hartley, hands over this famous old house to its new tenant, Mr Kitto, of Biggin Hill, tonight (Friday), it will be his third retirement. Mr Cox, in the course of his colourful life, has had many adventures and met a number of famous people.
Reluctant as he is to talk of his varied experiences, our representative was able to glean, in the course of an interview, a sidelight on some extremely interesting exploits in which Mr Cox had participated.
Before he was 21, he held a Master's certificate, and was skipper of a trawler.
Leaving water for fire, Mr Cox then joined the London Fire Brigade, and did not retire until 1918, having by then completed a service of 29 years. He was, it is stated, Station Officer at the time of the Sidney Street Siege and, while the affray was at its height, was ordered by the Superindendent of Police not to extinguish a fire which had broken out in the house from which the besieged gunmen were shooting. Mr Cox, as a fireman, naturally had to refuse to comply with this order. Even Mr Winston Churchill, who was then Home Secretary and was directing operations, failed to move him until Mr Cox had telephoned his own superior officer for special authority. Mr Cox, incidentally, in addition to the many medals, holds the highest honour which the London Fire Brigade can bestow, that of the Silver Medal for bravery - VC of the Fire Service. This was gained 'just for saving two lives in Mile End Road, that's all.' which is Mr Cox's modest description of the incident.
Mr Cox's second retirement was from a hosiery business which he carried on in Lewisham, SE. When he took over the Black Lion, this 450 year old building was a grocery store as well as a public house. Afeter running the store for a few months he decided to scrap it, and built in its place the present saloon bar.
In his retirement Mr Cox takes with him, not only the good wishes of the countless friends he has made in Hartley and district but an abundance of pleasant memories of 'the very happy 8 years' he has spent there. Additionally his many masonic friends, who were so proud and delighted when Brother Cox was elevated to the dignity of an officer of the Grand Lodge in recognition of his long and devoted service in the craft, join with his local acquaintances in wishing him happiness and health for the future."
[The Sidney Street Siege was a gun battle between the Police/Army and Latvian revolutionaries in January 1911. Winston Churchill caused a lot of controversy as Home Secretary because he was accused of meddling with operational decisions of the police and fire brigade. Cyril Morris, the senior fire officer on duty later said he had allowed himself to be overawed by Churchill who had no right to do this. He said his junior an LFB Superintendent kept requesting to be able to do something, presumably this was Mr Cox. The Globe of 26.2.1912 mentions the medal for saving 2 lives at 196 Mile End Road. The fire was described in the Pall Mall Gazette of 29.1.1912 "Early this morning a fire was discovered at 196 Mile End Road on premises occupied by a confectioner. The fire occurred on the ground floor, but several children were sleeping upstairs, and in rescuing them Police Sergeant Walters and PC Little were overcome by smoke and lost consciousness. Station Officer Cox and Firemen Wilks and Bird were also overcome by smoke, while Fireman Geary sustained injury to his wrist during the fire. All the 5 children who were in the building were rescued, but it was found necessary to convey PS Walters, Constable Little and Fireman Bird to the London Hospital for treatment. The fire was extinguished within half an hour."]
Mrs Mary Faith Temple
Funeral of Mrs Mary Faith Temple, aged 56, of Oaklands, Church Road at All Saints. She and her husband had moved to Hartley from Erith 8 years ago. Mourners include Ivy May Chawner [1912-1988] and Mary Faith McCulley [1904-1989], daughters.
23 Aug 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Gillman Wedding
Wedding of Constance E Gillman [1917-1999] of Chilton [now Weybourne], Church Rd to Geoffrey F Towell [1917-2003]
24 Aug 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield ARP Arrangements
"Stirrup pumps will be kept at the following addresses - Marringdean, Longfield Hill; Lyndon, Main Road, New Barn; The School House; 13 Valley Villas [231 Main Road]; 18 Woodview [Probably a mistake Woodview (113-143 Main Road) only numbered up to 16]; Mr Gibson's Shop, Main Road; Pinden End Farm; Kent House (ARP HQ). There is also a trailer pumpand 7 AFS men under the direction of Mr H P Hicks; a first aid party of 30 under Miss Parker; 14 wardens with Mr Lynds at the head; rescue and demolition squads and cleansing party directed by the surveyor (Mr Webb) at the RDC Depot. More male ARP voluntary wardens are required. Those wishing to join can obtain particulars from Kent House, Station Road."
31 Aug 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bomber Fund
"Look out this week for Miss Raine, who is starting to collect in Longfield and Hartley for a bomber, with her badger dog, Imber Felix…." [Paper of 7/9/1940 mentions donation from Mr Raine of Gravesend to give to his namesake. Paper of 14/9/1940 says she had raised £27, including 12s "collected by the finder of a German boot which dropped in the vicinity. Also mentioned in Evening News 4/9/1940]
Hartley Pumping Station
Public notice of Mid Kent Water's application to extend to 1944 the time allowed to compelete the works.
KM Roll of Honour
"Jack Ernest Waters, 21, of 3 The Gun Station, Church Road, Hartley, Signaller RA. Tractor Driver, employed at Hartley Manor, Hartley."
07 Sep 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Knocked off Cycle
"On Saturday morning while on duty as ARP Warden, Mr Stan Acton [40] was knocked off his cycle by a motor car [at Station Road]. He has an arm broken in 2 places and badly bruised ribs. He was attended to by the Longfield first aid party before being taken to [the County Hospital, Dartford]"
[item appears twice, additional information from other article in square brackets]
New Industry for Longfield?
"Chalk Quarrying Project - There is a possibility of a new industry being established at Longfield. Recently a letter was sent to the Parish Council, asking whether they were prepared to sell land at Whitehill….. At the parish meeting on Monday, a resolution was passed authorising the parish council sell 6 acres at Whitehill for not less than £650 for the purpose of establishing works for the quarrying of chalk for the production of highly manufactured products on the site. The land will be sold subject to the sanction of the Ministry of Health and other authorities concerned. [List of those present]."
14 Sep 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley WI
Fruit Preservation Depot has now made 1,300 lb of jam and 800 bottles of fruit.
Church School
Jumble sale raises £15 towards canteen fund.
Longfield Obituaries
(1) Mr D Foster of Sandwich who had been living with his neice Mrs Potter of Essex Road. (2) "Miss E Coulson of Station Road, Miss Coulson was a teacher at Gordon Road Schools, Gravesend." [It would not be until 9/11/1942 that the paper would reveal that she had been killed by fire from a German plane as she drove to play the organ at Sutton at Hone church.]
14 Sep 1940 Deal Sandwich & Walmer Mercury
Mr Demetrius Edward Foster
"We regret to record the death of Mr Demetrius Edward Foster, of Chotaghur, Dover Road, Sandwich, who was killed in a London air raid on Saturday. He had been on a visit to his daughter, who was in hospital. 71 years of age, the late Mr Foster was surveyor to the Eastry RDC for over 30 years, retiring in 1935. The funeral took place at Longfield Parish Church, Kent on Wednesday, conducted by the Canon, the interment following in the churchyard....." He was born in West Kingdown and came to Sandwich in 1903. [Died 7.9.1940 at 110 Watling Street, Stone (now Dartford). Because newspapers were not allowed to say which buildings had been hit, it is difficult to know the circumstances. It would appear that it was this event mentioned in the KM (Maidstone Telegraph) of 14/9/40 "....a bomb fell on an Anderson shelter. The family were indoors, but the house collapsed and a man was fatally injured." In 1939 Peter Harle, who later came to live in Hartley, lived nearby at 104]
21 Sep 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Saved by Stirrup Pumps
A picturesque thatched cottage, the property of Mr J C Kershaw, was burnt out on Sunday morning, but the efforts of neighbours armed with stirrup pumps, the auxiliary firemen and the regular fire brigade, saved another 300 year old cottage, the home of five generations of the Goodwin family, and no one was injured. There was an air raid.
[No doubt the paper was not allowed to say the house - Whiffins Cottage, now Orchard House, was destroyed by a Hurricane which had been shot down. The neighbouring property saved was Goodwins Cottage, Church Road. The Gravesend Reporter (Hidden Legacy of War, 21.11.1991) reported that the plane had just been dug up and taken to nearby Shoreham Museum. The Hurricane of Pilot John Gurteen (24) crashed at full throttle, he was thrown clear but sadly died. This was on Battle of Britain day 15 September 1940. An eyewitness wrote to the paper (5.12.1991) "I was a milkman on my round with my boss, Harry Parrett of Hothfield Dairy, Hartley. About midday we were at Hartley Court and heard this air battle above. We saw this furnace coming towards us at full throttle. It crashed about 100 yards away. I jumped over a five bar gate and raced to see what I could do, thinking the pilot was in the inferno. The machine guns were exploding all around and it was hopeless..."]
26 Sep 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Housing Wants
"Unfurnished bungalows wanted, Longfield, Hartley and Ash districts, good tenants waiting. Rents collected. Property Managed. Coney and Coney, Hartley Bottom, Longfield" (ad)27 Sep 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Ancient Church Damaged: Stained Glass Destroyed
"An ancient parish church in South East England was damaged during a recent air raid. A bomb fell near the building, and smashed the beautiful stained glass, and did other damage to the fabric.
The Rector, who is doing ARP work, was engaged, during the raid looking after the needs of his parishioners when the church was hit. He is grieved over the loss sustained by the smashing of the stained glass, which must have been at least 300 years old.
The Church is built of flint and stone in the early English style."
[This may be the report of the landmine which fell on Northfield, which blew out the windows of All Saints church, although the windows damaged were nowhere near 300 years old. However the next week the paper reports services are not being held in the church. When the windows were restored after the war, the name of the donor was changed from Trimmer to Summer.]
28 Sep 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Extinguishing an Incendiary Bomb
"Notices will shortly be posted on all fire boxes warning people of the danger of pouring the contents of patent extinguishers on a burning incendiary bomb, which will result in sending off a poisonous gas. Water from a stirrup pump or light spray syringe, or better still, a bucket of sand or sifted earth, should be used, but the patent extinguisher may safely be used where fire has spread from the incendiary bomb, but not on the bomb itself."
28 Sep 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Conscientious Objectors
"Stanley Vincent Hurrell, 20 of Ash Lane [sic], Hartley near Gravesend, a junior draughtsman at a cement works, who said he was willing to serve in the RAMC, was registered for non-combatant duties."
04 Oct 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Local News in Brief
(1) Gorse Way man fined for speeding; (2) All Saints - Sunday services to be in schoolroom [A clear clue that the reference to a church being damaged the previous week was about All Saints']; (3) Marriage of Miss Joan Hetty Fielder [1916-1990] of the Stores to Frank E Barwood [1912-1991] at Congregational Church
05 Oct 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Blackout Offence
"When Robert Roy Burnsten Wilson of 'River View', Church Road, Hartley, was fined 32 shillings and 8s costs at Dartford Police Court on Friday in respect of a light showing from his bungalow during blackout hours, Mr Hugh Goff stated that defendant's mother went into the garden to get some clothes off the line and left the door half open. 'The offence was only committed momentarily,' Mr Goff added.
05 Oct 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Parish Church
"Divine Service at 11am and 2pm will be held in the church schools next Sunday instead of the Parish Church, owing to damage to the ceiling of the church."
[As near as the local paper were allowed to mention bomb damage to the church]#
Wedding
"A wedding of considerable local interest was solemnised on Saturday at the Hartley Catholic Church, Fr McKenna officiating it the presence of a large assembly of friends. The bride was Miss Dorothy Francis, who has been employed at the Fairby Homes ever since its opening 17 years ago, and the bridegroom Mr George Field, of Hartley, late of Sittingbourne...."
05 Oct 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Speeding
Edward Owen Jones of Elderberry Cottage, Church Road, fined for speeding at Welling
05 Oct 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
West Hill Hospital Bombed
"When Nazis Bombed North Kent Hospital - British Courage Rose above the Storm - High Tributes to Staff
High tributes to the conduct of the staff of a north Kent hospital which received a direct hit in an air raid - 2 women's wards being demolished - were paid at a meeting of the local guardians committee this week.
The chairman said the bombing might easily have caused panic and developed into something worse than it was and the public was indebted to the staff for the way it faced the crisis. This revealed that the care the guardians had always taken in the appointment of the staffs was not wasted. When the storm was at its worst the staffs gave of their best.
"There was the horror of darkness added to the awfulness of the occasion", the chairman added. "It made the work more frightening, but the staff carried on facing every difficulty."
A lady guardian said the master of the hospital kept his head marvellously. She did not think they should diiferentiate as all did their duty and more than their duty.
Another member said "I am not surprised at what the staff did. I am satisfied that our nature is such that we can rise to the occasion when it comes."
It was decided to express the Guardians' thanks to the staff.
A report by a hospital official who was quickly on the scene of the bombing stated: "It was a harrowing scene, and the cries of those trapped in the wreckage were pitiful, but amidst this pandaemonium I did not observe one case of panic amongst the staff, but instead they worked like Trojans, untiringly and unceasingly.
Several of the nurses were clad only in pyjamas with a coat thrown over, as they had no time to dress. I would like to make special mention of the way in which these nurses worked with a calm and efficiency which was inspiring. Sisters and probationers alike worked the night through.
Rescue work was rendered exceedingly difficult throughout the night as the enemy planes were still in the vicinity and only the minimum of light could be used. At times it was necessary to extinguish all lights when it became apparent that the enemy were close.
The ARP workers worked magnificently and one after another the patients were freed. When daylight came there were still about 6 patients trapped, but eventually they were all accounted for, and when then roll was taken it was found that the casualties amounted to 24 killed, including 2 staff, and 9 patients and 6 staff are injured. Of the injured, only 2 of the patients were serious, and the staff slight.
Whilst it was not my intention to mention any individual as being outstanding in the rescue work, all the staff having worked so wonderfully well, it is only fair that I should mention the names of Dr Green, Sister Gantry and Mr C T Shaw, whose untiring efforts were worthy of recognition."
[This was probably the worst loss of life locally in the whole war. West Hill was then the main local hospital for the Dartford area, which included Hartley. One of the stained glass windows in the chapel survived the bombing and can now be seen in Darent Valley Hospital.]
12 Oct 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Parish Council
On Thursday last week, Mr Charles Sizmur presided. A committee of three was appointed to confer at once with the landowner, Mr Hoath, on the widening of St John's Lane, now more urgent with the approach of the second winter under blackout conditions. The chairman reported receipt of £24 for the Spitfire Fund from Mr Dallen, collected from members and friends of the Hartley Sports Club and some £17 collected in the village by 9 authorised collectors. The satisfactory total of £41 had thus already been raised with more to follow from collecting boxes not yet cleared, and other promises. The Clerk was instructed to send a letter of compliment and thanks to the local Auxiliary Fire Service for prompt and efficient work, whereby Mr Goodwin's cottage was saved from destruction or even damage, although the next cottage only a few feet away was totally destroyed during an air battle. Appreciation was expressed of good neighbourly actions following on houses being badly shaken by blast and it was confidently felt that everyone in the parish stood ready to offer immediate shelter where needed pending the operation of official action in similar cases in future. Happily there have been no fatal casualties in Hartley. (Dartford Chronicle of 11.10.40 said the Spitfire Fund was £41 6s 2d)
Southfleet ARP
Parish Council said they were a large parish with not enough public shelters, shelter just within parish on arterial road [A2] for motorists not parishioners. The part of New Barn in Southfleet parish covered by Longfield ARP.
26 Oct 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Bungalow to let
Glenelm, Castle Hill to let for duration at 32 shillings per week; owner also put James Auto Cycle for sale - £9
[Paper of 2/11/1940 has further advert for bungalow to let with contact address of Glenelm. 3 bedroom 34s weekly].
26 Oct 1940 Gravesend Reporter
Hartley Resident's Experience - Fell from Second Floor to Basement
"Buried in tons of debris
Mr Jim Sheppard of Bellerive, Gorse Way, Hartley, had a remarkable experience during an air raid in a Midland town. Part of a hotel at which he was staying collapsed while he was in bed, and he fell from the second floor to the basement. He was buried for some hours in tons of debris, and when he was rescued it was found that he was not seriously injured. Mr Sheppard (pictured) tells his story in the following words:
"Having been 20 years on the road, the war forced me to take a clerical post and this I stuck for 12 months. Outdoor workers among your readers will guess how I felt when I obtained another position on the road two weeks ago. I was working the first week, around a northern district where the lucky inhabitants consider it an event if Jerry drops a bomb. I did not see a crater there in 8 days' travelling and had very good nights in bed.
Then on the night of the 15th, in my second week, I came to a Midland town. Jerry found this out and paid his first visit for a considerable time. He started dropping 50lb bombs (all small stuff) and incendiaries - I think about 10pm. It quietened down about midnight and I turned in on the top (second) floor of my hotel. At a guess I should say about 1 o'clock it started again.
I was only half asleep when I heard one bomb drop quite close and the next second another one more than very close, for I heard masonry falling I remember I thought to myself - gosh - that's a bit close. It was close for the wall of the room below mine must have caught it, as the next momet my floor began to fall. It wasn't unpleasant as the motion was like being in a lift. For about 2 seconds all was quiet and I began to breathe and I had missed all the bricks. Then came another fall and I was apparently thrown out of bed, my mattress miraculously threw itself around me and debris piled all over me.
There was a final fall and apparently I finished aobut 2 feet from the basement floor - very fortunately for me. I found this out afterwards. The mattress of course, being wrapped around me obviously saved my life. I suppose for about 1 minute I was suffocating as the pressure increased I had my right arm fairly free and was able to grope in a downward motion. A couple of bricks gave way. It was then I found that I was about 2 feet from the basement ground. I could only guess this as, of course, it was pitch dark.
As is perhaps natural, for a few seconds I did a bit of wild struggling with my body, but to no avail. I could not move my feet as they were pinned The air was then coming up to me very nicely and every 5 minutes I yelled out a 'hello' until I heard somebody answer me. I should imagine that the Midland Town's ARP boys were on the scene within 20 minutes. I then realised that all I could do was to keep cool and wait, and of course hoep that they would get to me in time.
My sense of humour had not left me at this particular moment as I remembered I had taken out a 1 shilling (5p) thousand to one Air Raid Insurance the day before, and thought out aloud that I wished I had taken out a dollar's (25p) worth. I then realied that it was no good as the receipt was in the debris. About half an hour after this, I was located but there were literally tons of debris over me, and it took them over 4 hours constant work to remove it, so that they could see where I was.
One of the ARP lads, also blessed with a sense of humour, flashed his torch on me about half an hour when he realised I could take it, and every time had the same words - 'We will have you out of there in no time, there is only about a half ton on you'. Towards the end I was able to indicate the exact position of my body, when a small gap was made above me. I could then push my right hand through and indicate to them where my feet were pinned and so on.
As I reached hospital about 6.30 I estimate that I was an Egyptian Mummy for about 5 hours. I cannot think of the right word - lucky is not strong enough. All I have to show, apart from bruises of course, is a temporarily paralysed foot. As I can walk this does not see to matter much. I was taken to a Military Hospital, and it took me back to Christmas 1915, which was the last time I was in Hospital (after Gallipoli). Did I have a good tiem? I had six pretty nurses dressing me when I was informed that my wife was waiting for me in the corridor. I wonder whether I should have told the nurses I could have dressed myself.
I have lost everything I had with me in the debris, as of course I only came away with my pyjamas. I am thinking of starting a Spitfire fund with the pyjamas; they are worth looking at. Although I have lost everything I expect my usual luck will come to my rescue I have always been lucky. In conclusion I must say that with my first hand experience of the Midland town's ARP service, if this is the standard all over the country , it is an amazing self-sacrificing and efficient service."
[Bellerive is now called Applewood, Gorse Way. It had only just been built in 1939, and Mr and Mrs Sheppard was the first tenants.]
02 Nov 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley Agricultural Co-Operative
"A special meetin of the committee was held on Sunday last to make arrangements for carrying on the business in the absence of the secretary and general manager, Mr William Wise, who volunteered for active service on the outbreak of war, and has now been called up. Reference was made to the fact that Mr Wise had nearly completed 21 years with the Society, and that much of its success was due to his efficient work. HIs many friends in Hartley and district join the committee in wishing Mr Wise success in his army life. The Society will fully maintain all its services under the personal supervision of the chairman Mr Bartholemew, during Mr Wise's absence, supported by the present staff."
French Lessons (ad)
"by French girl, possessing teaching examinations; moderate terms. Fairhaven, Manor Drive, Hartley, Dartford."
15 Nov 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Soldier Summoned after 'Family Squabble'
"Private Alfred George Cook of the Royal Artillery was summoned for assaulting William Edward Barlow, of View Point, Merton Avenue, Hartley, at Wilmington on October 25. He pleaded guilty. Mr Bertram Lovell, who appeared for Barlow, said it was one of those regrettable cases arising out of a family squabble. Complainant was father in law of defendant. He did not think it necessary, in view of the plea, to go very far into the matter. Complainant did not want to be vindictive, and if defendant was bound over it would meet the ends of justice and there was no need to occupy the time of the court. The deputy clerk (Mr Tattersall) pointed out that there must be some evidence of the assault. Barlow then stated that his wife and he had had a few 'words', and he tried to make it up. Defendant, who was on 24 hours leave, came out of his bedroom and asked what all the noise was about. 'I told him it was nothing to do with him and that he should not interfere with a man and his wife.' Barlow added, 'He then hit me in the face with his fist.' Cook alleged that Barlow struck him first. 'He had previously hit my wife in the stomach with his knee,' defendant stated. 'When I asked him what all the noise was about, he told me to mind my own business. He hit me in the face with his fist, and I hit him back. I picked him up off the floor and got him to bed.' In dismissing the case under the First Offenders Act, the chairman said the squabble should now stop, and they hoped defendant would in future keep his temper."
16 Nov 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Hartley School Canteen
"Subscribers to the Canteen Fund of the CofE school were invited to inspect the canteen on Tuesday. The equipment was much admired. Over 50 children, and some of the staff now have dinner at school every day, the elder boys and girls acting as waiters. The menu is changed daily, and Miss Fiddis (headmistress) reports a marked improvement already in the children's health and spirits."
18 Nov 1940 Times
Orde - Walker Engagement
Engagement of Capt Algernon E Orde RA [1904-1984] to Helen Mary Walker [1915-1980] of Radnorshire
04 Dec 1940 News Chronicle
Guard stole from Mail Bags
"Sentencing William Reginald Skinner (44) [b Kemsing 1897, d Sutton at Hone 1960, served in Navy in WW1] of [117] Main Road, Longfield, near Dartford to two years' imprisonment, the Recorder (Sir Gerald Dodson) said at the Old Bailey yesterday: 'It was a paradox you should have been called a guard. You have guarded nothing save your own desires to get rich at the expense of the public. No wonder postal packets do not reach their destinations if there are guards like you. I am happy to think these are very few'. Skinner pleaded guilty to stealing postal packets in course of transmission.
[Kent Messenger artilce of trial 16/11/1940 said that on 21 October he stole 15 watches and £2 10s from 2 registered packets between London Bridge and Dartford; the next day he took £15 in cash and postal orders; and in early October he stole £70 in cash, plus some cheques he destroyed. He admitted offences and returned the 15 watches and £244 in cash].
06 Dec 1940 Dartford Chronicle
St John's Lane Widening
Sub-Committee of Dartford RDC re widening of St Johns Lane (see also 20.12.40)
07 Dec 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
War Savings
"The Savings Group which was started in July by the Longfield First Aid Post, now has 51 members and has accumulated £132. More members are needed and particulars can be obtained from the Hon Sec Mrs Gomer Davies, or the Hon Treasurer Miss Weller, who are in attendance at Kent House on Mondays from 3-5pm."
Farewell Head Warden
Mr T W Lynds, Head Warden of Longfield is leaving the district to take up a manager's position in a Sussex firm of vehicle builders. Many residents will regret his departure."
07 Dec 1940 Kent Messenger
Secondhand Wood For Sale
Secondhand Wood For Sale, also poultry house. Workshop opposite Miss Boucher's shop, Church Road, Hartley
07 Dec 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Longfield Parish Council
(1) Whitehill Road land. Public Meetion on 2/9/40 had authorised council to sell for not less than £650. Council had employed a valuer and asked £1,200 for 6 acres. Account Firm wrote back to say they wouldn't pay that but would negotiate on their £650 offer for 7 acres. Surprised council had employed a valuer. (2) Dartford RDC has said school shelter can be used by public out of school hours.
Secondhand Wood For Sale
"also poultry house. Workshop opposite Miss Boucher's shop, Church Road, Hartley"
14 Dec 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Motor Combination and Boy Cyclist
"Charles Arthur Chatfield of Princes Road, Dartford was fined £1 and £1 17s 6d costs on Friday for driving a motorcycle combination without due care and attention at Longfield on October 22nd. Mrs Dyer of the Rambers' Rest Tearooms, [10] Main Road, Longfield, who was standing at her gate, said she saw the motorcycle combination run into the kerb and crash into a boy cyclist and a car. Defendant, who did not appear, was said to have told a policeman that he had only a slight experience of motorcycles."Hartley Parish Council
(1) Spitfire fund up to £52. (2) St John's Lane, they can't get Kent County Council to see the urgency of widening. (3) Irregular refuse collections at present but no action seems appropriate given current conditions.
Late Mary Ann Townley
Funeral at Longfield. She was aged 87 and from Lancashire originally. Had been in failing health but still active, especially in WI where her daughter in law is now president. Leaves 3 sons, eldest is Fred C Townley of the Cake Shop, Hartley.
27 Dec 1940 Dartford Chronicle
Hartley Neighbours Summon Each Other
"A dispute over the ownership of some land at Church Road, Hartley, resulted in a cross summons for assault. The parties were Dora Alice Stokes [1895-1972] of Keston Nursery, Church Road, Hartley; and David Thomas Robson Grey [1884-1968] of Brumleigh, Church Road, Hartley. Mr S Benson appeared for Mr Gray and Mr Hugh Goff for Mrs Stokes. Mrs Stokes had a plot of land with poultry and ducks, and on December 1 when she went to feed the birds she found a piece of fence down. She was putting it up when Mr Gray tried to stop her. She shouted to her husband for help and, it was alleged, tried to punch him and then kicked him. Evidence was given for Mrs Stokes by Edward Owen Jones of church Road, Hartley, Mrs Ellingham and Mr Charles Stokes. Defendant stated that Mrs Stokes tried to put the post up and he tried to prevent her. She became very abusive. He gave her a push and she fell down. She tried to strike him over the fence and kicked him twice. Jack Sopp and Thomas Elliott gave evidence for Gray. Mrs Stokes was fined 10s and the cross summons was dismissed."
28 Dec 1940 Kent Messenger
Ellerbys Advert
Ellerbys Agricultural Contractors advertise for tractor driver
28 Dec 1940 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)
Busy Knitters
Hartley Congregational Women's Guild have knitted in last year 166 pairs of socks, 26 pullovers, 72 helmets, 35 pairs of gloves and mittens and 17 scarves for the troops.
Ellerby's Contractors
Ellerbys Agricultural Contractors advertise for tractor driver