1961 News - Hartley-Kent: Covering Hartley, Longfield & District

06 Jan 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Hartley Parish Council Meeting

The provision of a playing field at Hartley is being held up because the owners of the land required for the purpose cannot be traced.  When the matter was discussed at a meeting of the Parish Council, the chairman Mr William Ball, said it was possible that county records might be helpful in this respect, but it appeared that the attitude of some county officials was not only unhelpful but unreasonable.  Mr L U Judge, clerk,  had reported that no information had been received about the owners of part of the proposed site.  It was understood that before the County Council could proceed to compulsory purchase of the site, written proof must be furnished that all possible steps had been taken to traced the owners.  Mr Ball said a rural council could of its own initiative take the necessary steps for compulsory purchase of the land, but a parish council could only do so through the county council.  Application had been made for the land concerned to be scheduled as a playing field.

Mr Judge read a letter from London Transport stating that the question raised in respect of the bus stop near Cherry Orchard is being considered.  Mr Grieve again raised the point of the lack of coordination of 489 buses from Ash with train departures from Fawkham Station and it was agreed that this matter would be pressed further.

Mr Judge reported that maintenance work in All Saints' Churchyard was satisfactorily completed.  Owing to weather conditions no inspection of the footpath from Hartley Court to Hartley Bottom had yet been made.  Mr Hall referred to the 'appalling mess' on land outside two bungalows near the Memorial end of Church Road.  This was as a result of drainage work and he thought the occupiers of the bungalows were fully justified in making a complaint.  It was arranged that the clerks should discuss the matter with the District Surveyor.  Mr HItchin raised the question of providing a footpath at Stocks Hill.  This was a very narrow part of Church Road and the bend at the bottom of the hill was always a danger spot.  After further discussions it was resolved to press the matter with the rural council and county authorities.

[The playing ground referred to was the current site at Woodland Avenue.  The county council was not being unreasonable, the land had been sold in several building plots half a century before and ownership of many was unknown.]

06 Jan 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Complaints that roads had not been swept for 2 months when county supposed to do them weekly.  Also that roads had not been properly reinstated after drainage excavation works.  [Editorial in paper of 13/1/61 said problem is countywide and was down to introduction of mechanical sweeping.  They called for lengthsmen who the sweepers had replaced to be reinstated] (2) Application for grant for more street lighting at Station Road for parking purposes refused by Ministry.

Rector's Venture - Produces own parish news

"Longfield's Rector (the Rev Reginald Bavington) is now producing his own parish magazine which he calls 'The Parish News'.   The first issue, which has a picture of the parish church on the front cover, appeared this week......" He wrote earlier magazine had to be stopped because it was losing money.  Cover price of new one increased from 3d to 4d and will contain more local news.

Bit postwoman

"[NAME], Gresham Avenue, Hartley lapsed into tears at Dartford Court when she appeared on a summons for being the owner of a dangerous dog and not keeping it under proper control.  'It is not dangerous, only very playful,' she told the court.  She added that she allowed the dog, an Alsatian, out at 6.15am, when nobody was about, and he usually came back at 7am.   [NAME], postwoman of Main Road, Longfield, gave evidence that the dog had torn her uniform, bitten her arm and bruised her ribs when she was delivering a letter at a caravan site at Wellfield.  An order wsa made for the dog to be kept under control and [NAME] was fined £1 for not having a licence for it."

Weather Report

"Colonel C J Jenman, of Elizabeth Cottage, Gorse Way, Hartley, has resided in the village for many years and for the last 15 years he has kept a weather record by means of a rain gauge.  As may be guessed the figures for 1960 are worth noting.  Hartley had measurable rain on 181 daysduring hte whole year and 114 days during the last 6 months.  In effect it amounts to rain every other day throughout the year.  There were 36 inches of rain, 25 inches in the last 6 months.  This was easily the wettest year since 1951 when there were 34 inches of rain, although in 1954 there were 145 wet days...."

Play Field Hold up - Who owns the land?

Hartley Parish Council meeting.  (1) Delay in acquiring playing field land [at Woodland Avenue] because owners can't be traced.  County council can compulsorily purchase the land but need proof all attempts have been made to contact the owners.  (2) Cllr Hitchin calls for a footpath at Stocks Hill, saying the dip is a known danger spot.   (3) Mains Drainage.  "Appalling mess" of land outside two bungalows at Memorial end of Church Road.

13 Jan 1961 Chatham Observer

To the Country

"It's back to the country for Mr and Mrs E W Know who, until recently, ran a small gorcery and provision shop in Gillingham Road, Gillingham.  The Knows are now living at Longfield, near Meopham, where this wiik Mr Know took over the appointment as village sub-postmaster.  Mr and Mrs Know were previously very well known in the village of Hoo, where they spent thier married life before moving to Gillingham, and entering on their first business venture. Prior to that, Mr Know was employed at a Rochester riverside factory, while his wife was for many years on the clerical staff of the Chatham Observer.

Mr E Know [1921-2007] Longfield's new sub-postmaster and Mrs Know [Winifred Ruth 1927-2014], photographed at the Longfield postal workers' dinner at the Railway Tavern, Longfield. Mr Know has been deputy to Mr Basil Hampson, retiring sub-postmaster."

[Same picture appears in Maidstone Telegraph of 13/1/61 along with one of retiring sub-postmaster of 14 years, Basil Hampson being presented with a travelling case by senior postwoman Mrs E Blackwell.]

20 Jan 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Bloodstained lint found in loaf

"While slicing a loaf of bread a Hartley housewife and school teacher discovered pieces of plaster and lint, parts of which were bloodstained, Dartford Magistrates were told when Tip Top Bakeries Ltd, Orpington, were fined £35 with £7 7s costs.  The firm admitted responsibility for the loaf and at the end of the case, [NAME], presiding, criticised a certain practice as being 'bribery or compensation'.  [NAME], prosecuting, said a pupil at Swanley Secondary School obtained a loaf from the High Street Swanley, shop of Tip Top for a teacher, [NAME], whose home is at [Maraussan], Gorsewood Road, Hartley.

The following morning she started to slice the loaf but found it difficult to get a knife through it.  [NAME] then noticed that a slice appeared to contain something which looked like sticking plaster.  [NAME] and her husband decided to complain.  The firm were informed and during the morning a representative of the firm called at the school to see her.  [NAME] went on to say that the agent was shown pieces of the loaf.  He asked to be allowed to take them away but [NAME] refused.  She did allow him to take a small piece.  'She formed the opinion that he was treating the matter very lightly,' he said.  'The agent said she could get a replacement loaf and a box of cakes from the High Street, Swanley, shop.  [NAME] collected a loaf but declined to accept the cakes.'

The matter was reported to the local public health authorities and the bread and contents analysed.  Pieces of adhesive plaster, lint and other woven material were found and some of these were bloodstained, added [NAME].  For the company it was stated it was not correct to say the matter was treated lightly as the firm took a very serious view of the matter.  After announcing the fine, [NAME] said the bench had heard evidence that [NAME] had taken the bread back to the shop where it was purchased.  'Then she was offered another loaf and some other commodity by way of bribe or compensation,' he said, 'We think the practice should stop.'

Surprise for the Major

"There was a pleasant surprise for [NAME] CO (pictured) of 'R' Battery, 263 (Thames and Medway) Light Regiment RA (TA) when he arrived at the officers' mess at Grange Road, Drill Hall.  The RA cadets who have their headquarter there were waiting to present him with a plaque bearing the RA badge as a token of their appreciation of the keen interest he had taken in the unit since he took over 'R; battery.... Under the Territorial Army Reorganisation scheme, 263 regiment is to be disbanded and [NAME], who has served in the Territorial Army since 1937, will retire.  He and his wife came to live at [Puckhaber] Larksfield, Hartley, in the spring of last year."

20 Jan 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Sale of Stock at Manor Farm, Longfield

(Advert) "Manor Farm, Longfield, kent.  About 3 miles from Gravesend and 7 miles from Dartford.  Sale by auction of farming stock, including 9 tractors viz Caterpillar TD6, 3 Fergusons, 2 Internationals, Oliver 90 and 2 Ransome MG.  Claas Combine Harvester; Ransome 2, 3 and 4 furrow ploughs, mole plough; Ransome heavy 13 tine and other cultivator; 4 sets disc harrow; rotavator; expanding brakes; ring and plain rolls; corn, root and munure drills; Salopian Dung Spreader; Potato and Cabbage Planters; Potato Spinner; Grass Mowers; Lely Vicon Swath Turner; Allis-Chalmers Roto Baler; Lister Elevator; Hammer Mill; Mayrath Elevator etc.  Land Rover (1949); Bedford 7 ton and 3 ton lorries.  4 tractor traillers; Hop Bins; 4 Oast Hairs; Quantity used hop poles and bats; 10 metal fruit ladders; Cutler grader; Fruit and Crop sprayers; Pig Weighing machine; portable steamers; dry feeders; poultry equipment and miscellaneous effects.

E J Parker & Sons, having sold the farm are instructed by Messrs D & K Woodward Limited to sell the above by auction on the premises on Thursday, 26th January 1961, commencing at 11 o'clock am......"

20 Jan 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Danger Spot

Mr D C Goodwin, School House has written a letter to the Parish Council complaining about the rough state in which contractors carrying out main drainage work in the illage, have left the pathway in front of the parish church.  His wife sustained severe bruising after a fall there.  'There may be a serious accident if something is not done quickly,' said Mr Goodwin, 'I know residents in the area who are afraid to venture out at night for fear of falling.' "

22 Jan 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Obituary of Len Cheary

of 2 Darenth Cottages (66), painter and decorator who won prizes for vegetable growing.  Leaves widow, 1 daughter and 4 grandchildren.

27 Jan 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Served with Scott in Antarctic

"In a small cottage at Longfield Hill, near Gravesend, lives a man surrounded by relics of Captain Scott's last expedition to the Antarctic, which have transformed his home into a veridtable museum.  He is 72 years old Mr Edward McKenzie [pictured] who is one of the 4 surviving members of that great expedition which set out in 1910 to reach the South Pole....."  Notes of his lecture to Longfield Women's Fellowship.  He was in Merchant Navy but left to become a PC in the Met in 1913 when he married. He says he is writing his autobiography.

Late Mr L Cheary

Obituary of Len Cheary of 2 Darenth Cottages, Ash Road, aged 66.  Retired painter and decorator.  Keen gardener who won prizes for vegetables.  Leaves wife and daughter.  Funeral at All Saints.

Hartley Naturalist Club

11 new members enrolled at Annual Party at Congregational Hall.  Paper has picture of 26 members.

Dartford Rural District Council

Rubbish collection scheme to be introduced in Darenth, Eynsford, Stone and Swanley to be charged to whole district (other parishes didn't want to join).  Leslie Reeves of Swanley pointed out that cesspool emptying and rubbish collection in the rural eastern parishes cost three times what they get in rates from them, and now they plan to charge an £15,000 car park and public toilet at Longfield to the whole district.

Hartley Players

Picture of a scene from "Laura" showing 7 of the cast (named).

Review in paper of 3/2/61 is mixed.  Reviewer said it had been 7 years since they had seen them and was pleased to see they still keep a high standard, and while many of the actors were praised, the reviewer thought they failied to convey the American setting of the play.

03 Feb 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Obituary

of Charles Henry Brown (72) who had lived at Ivydene for over 30 years.  Worked as gardener until 5 years ago.  One place he worked was Old Downs.  Leaves wife of 49 years, no children

Thursday Club

Thursday Club - 1st meeting of 1961.  Mrs Casebow showed cine of her holiday in Yugoslavia

03 Feb 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council Meeting

(1) London Transport said they would provide a bus shelter at junction of Church Road and St John's Lane when the [Cherry Trees] development was complete.  (2) Stocks Hill, KCC agree a footpath is needed but it was a long term aim.  (3) PC say there is no suitable place for gypsy sites in Hartley. (4) Burial Ground.  Mr Hitchin has donated shrubs which have been planted on the boundary.

10 Feb 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Council Backs Car Park Scheme

"There was a lively debtate at Monday's Longfield PC meeting on Dartford RDC's proposal to provide a public convenience and car park at the top of Station Road.  Letters were read from four residents, including Mr E A Martin, a member of the PC, strongly protesting against the proposals which they described as 'appalling, hideous and quite unnecessary.'  One writer suggested the car park being situated away from the business thoroughfare would be a considerable annoyance to resident when used late at night because of the noise created.

Mr F T Sims said a public convenience was essential in Longfield, especially as the bus service was so very infrequent and people were forced to wait around for half an hour at a time.  Mr A E Potter, chairman, who also welcomed the proposal, said there had been a demand for a convenience for 4 or 5 years.  Mr Martin suggested the site would be put to a much more useful purpose. 'If a car park is constructed will it mean doing away with parking in Station Road entirely?' he asked, 'If this is so, many residents will be unable to leave their cars outside their homes.'

On Mr Sims' proposal it was agreed to tell the rural council that the protests against the scheme had been carefully considered, but the parish council was in favour of it."

Wants to fill pit with factory waste

"The use of factory waste in the reclamation of land was discussed at Monday's meeting of Longfield PC when the matter of the proposed infilling of a pit a Pinden End Farm, Longfield by this method was raised.  It was stated that a local firm which had been reclaiming land in Longfield for the past 30 years, wished to use this method of infilling with the intention of reclaiming this site for agricultural purposes......" PC decided to object until more information about what will be dumped there is forthcoming.

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Well discovered during works on Longfield Hill Green, thought to be related to former mission hall.  To be filled in.  [paper of 10/3/1961 reported that it was actually as cesspool]  (2) Council object to any gypsy sites being provided in the area.

Country Club Bowls

Annual dinner for 120 members and friends.  Picture of 10 prize winners and principal guests.

17 Feb 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Obituary

of Arthur Ernest Slater of Clovelly, Ash Road.  Moved to Longfield as master baker.  Moved on retirement to Hartley on retirement in 1953 at age 75.  During war he was in charge of special constabulary in Longfield.  Leaves 1 daughter, Mrs Iddison of Church Road

Ash Cricket Club

Ash Cricket Club Dinner, [NAME] on entertainment committee

17 Feb 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Break with tradition at Longfield

Parish church to dispense with summer fete.  Rector said he didn't believe in this way of raising money as the work fell on a few organisers.  Direct giving to be encouraged but they don't want to join the Christian Stewardship scheme.

24 Feb 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Obituary of Alice Louise Whitehead

Aged 76 of 9 Kent Road, Longfield.  A widow, she belonged to the OAP Association and Mothers' Union and was a member of the PCC.

Hartley Church PCC meeting

Accounts for 1960 show balance of £141 in additionto £500 in fund for hall furnishings.  £25 to be spent modernising the vestry.

Hartley WI Birthday Party

Nearly 100 attend 40th anniversary party.  Picture features two remaining founder members Mrs D Webb and Mrs L Meddick cutting the cake.

03 Mar 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Youth for Christ

100 attend Youth for Christ "squash" at URC Hall

Hartley Social Club

Social Club Chairman DTR Gray reports profits down to ? £137 10s 0d

03 Mar 1961 Chatham Observer

To receive Royal Maundy Money from the Queen

List of 70 OAPs to receive the gift at Rochester Cathedral include John Crouch (88) of Woodville [11] Kent Road, Longfield.  [This is the only time Rochester Cathedral has hosted the event so far, although it was held at Rochester Castle in 1213].

03 Mar 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Presentation at Longfield

Picture of Mrs Esmonde, president of the British Legion Southfleet and Longfield women's section, being presented with a certificate by Mr A Potter.

Cyclist hurt

"In collision with a stationary car at Station Road, Longfield, John Bernard Storey [1932-2000], 29, Railway Cottages, Longfield, received injuries to his forehead and left hand."

Bus schedule blamed for missing trains

Hartley Parish Council Meeting.  (1) Complaints about difficulty making train connections at Longfield even if bus is on time.  (2) Delays in refuse collection and cesspool emptying down to staff sickness.  (3) Longfield PC write to say they are considering a car park but PC think they mean the site at junction of Essex Road and Station Road which is not so near the station.

10 Mar 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Planning enquiry

on plans to build 40 houses at Manor Drive.  Land was 4.25 acres to north of Manor Drive between 2 existing bungalows.  Said to be poor agricultural land "impenetrable with scrub".  Applicants were Porter Putt & Co, would be builders R E Jury & Co.  Douglas Waugh acted for 6 objectors.

Obituary

Obituary of Mrs S Peto of School House, Ash Road (77).  She came to Hartley 20 years ago with her husband who died in 1943.  She was for some years employed at the Country Club.

10 Mar 1961 Chatham Observer

New Shops for Longfield

(Advert) "Shops, offices, flats, garages etc in Station Road, Longfield, planning permission has been granted for the construction of the above in fast developing Longfield - Enquiries to Geoffrey Schofield & Co, Arundel House, 13 Arundel Street, London WC2."

10 Mar 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Gay Cousins Advert

"Now at Gay Cousins, 59 Station Road, Longfield… a Playtex Living Bra…..". Playtex Princess D Cup 32/6; Princess Cup (AA-C) 27/6.

17 Mar 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Copse Side

planning appeal dismissed ([NAME] on behalf of J H Brewster)

17 Mar 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Old Resident

Funeral of 80 years old Mrs Mabel Dunmall of 30 Essex Road.  Born and lived all her life in Longfield, she leaves widower and one son.

Unfare Travel

"Derek Victor Peeke [1939-2017] of [131] Main Road, Longfield was fined £2 at Maidstone Court on Tuesday when he pleaded guilty by letter to travelling on the railway without paying his fare, and using a defaced passenger ticket on January 12th."

Same page mentions his wedding at Aylesford.

Tennis

Country Club Tennis section had 41 senior members plus number of junior members in 1960.

24 Mar 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Hartley and Ash OAP Club

7th anniversary of Hartley and Ash OAP Club

Obituary of Mrs Elizabeth Martin

of Old Downs, 88.  Moved there 9 years ago

24 Mar 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Crash after wedding

"Two guests who had been to a wedding reception at Longfield were involve in an accident at Main Road, Longfield.  A car driven by [NAME], 24 of … St Albans skidded, mounted a footpath and ran into a garden fence.  [NAME] was unhurt, but his passenger [NAME], 20 of ... Dartford received a head injury. He was taken to Gravesend and North Kent hospital but was not detained."

24 Mar 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Drainage work under fire at Longfield

"Only one member of the public [NAME] was present at Longfield's annual parish meeting on Monday.  He asked the PC whether any recreational facilities or sports ground would be provided for public use int eh village in the near future?  Mr A Potter, chairman, repliedthat a fairly large area of waste ground in the village had been designated by the council for recreational purposes.

The contractors responsible for laying the drainage pipes in the village were strongly criticised by Mr O Cole.  'The work is progressing a a snail's pace,' he said, 'and a trench in Main Road had been left open for over a week.'  Mr F T Sims said, 'Dartford RDC optimistically forecast that the laying of these pipes would be completely finished in 18 months.  I cannot see it being finished in 3 years.  Where allotments have been disturbed by the work, only a htin layer of top soil has been replaced over the trenches, and the tremendous number of stones and pebbles thrown up have been left lying where they are.  When it rains, those allotments are going to look like Brighton beach.'  Mr R Mace complained that pavements in Hartley Road and Essex Road had caved in where the contractor's vehicles had been parked on them.  It was agreed that the matterbe raised by Mr Sims at the next meeting of the RDC."

Fined £50 for taking car

"A fine of £50 was imposed at Gravesend on Kenneth Calver, 19 [1942-2002], labourer, Cranmere, Church Road, Hartley, when he pleaded guilty to taking a car without the owner's consent and driving it without a licence....."  He had been out in Gravesend with friends one evening and they stopped to buy pies at coffee stall at Barrack Row, when Calver suddenly drove off in his friend's car.

31 Mar 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Handbag snatched

"While walking along Knockhall Chase, Greenhithe, at night, [NAME], Mile End Green, Longfield had her handbag snatched by a man who rode off on a motorcycle….."

Naturalist Club

Hartley club have set up a library  at home of Mrs M Cook in Church Road, opening time Monday 5-7pm.

Hartley Village Fete

"A meeting of representatives of all village organisation, convened by Mr John Fry, was held in the Institute Hall to discuss arrangements for the village fete to be held in the rectory grounds on July 1st.  It was decided that the profits from the fete should be sent to the Cancer Relief Fund.  The following were elected to organise the fete: Chairman, Mr John Fry; Secretary, Mrs Y Fry....."

07 Apr 1961 Chatham Observer

Diamond Wedding

"Mr & Mrs Frank Shambrook, formerly of Fairby Cottage, Hartley, Dartford, Kent, now at Rectory Grove, Wickford, Essex."

07 Apr 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hamlet passed by in census

"When the national census is taken on April 23rd, there will be one place in Kent where the people will make quite sure that they are included with the rest of the country.  For in 1931 it was overlooked by the enumerators and ithad to have its own special census the day after everyone else.  The place which was embarrassed by the lapse, and became famous overnight as the 'forgotten hamlet' was Hodsoll Street, a small community of some 80 souls in the parish of Ash-cum-Ridley.  The explanation for the mistake was that in those days Ash and Ridley were separate parishes.  Each of the enumerators in Ash and Ridley thought the other was distributing the census papers at Hodsoll Street.  As it happened neither of them did so.  And there were some red faces later on census day when the fault was discovered.

But Hodsoll Street was not the only place in Kent to have its incident in the 1931 census.  Four families representing 18 people at Crockenhill were left out entirely and the 250 residents then living on the Heathwood Estate at Swanley were only included by the skin of their teeth.  By noon on the day of hte census the inhabitants had received no papers to fill in.  A retired schoolmaster living there made an emergency telephone call and three officials from Somerset House made a dash to Kent by car to delver the papers......"

Brings new life to churches - Stewardship campaign is a success

"Churches in the Gravesend area which have adopted the Christian Stewardship campaign to improve finances and gain larger congregations report that so far the scheme has proved an unqualified success.  The Rev R A Williams, Rector of Harltey, the first parish in Rochester Diocese to atopt the diocesan scheme, said: 'I believe the campaign has released a new impetus in the life of the church and that the idea will expand in the years to come. The congregations at Harltey have swelled considerably during hte past year and the church income has increased threefold.  The church council has been freed from anxiety about everyday financial needs and can 'look outwards' to the needs of the community.  Our present stewards' committee, conisting of 7 men and women is concerned at the moment about the welfare of old people in Hartley and is looking towards the buidling of bungalows specially equipped for the aged.  This is only an idea at the moment......'  "

Accused of 'wholesale cheating' - Car 'sold' twice court told

"Alleged 'wholesale cheating' in a second hand car business led to the appearance at Chatham on Wednesday of last week of Roger Davidson Cleaver, aged 43, of Field House, Burham, Maidstone [1918-197], and Kenneth William Tugwell (38), of Larksfield Hartley [1923-1997, he was decorated in the War for his bravery while an air gunner in a Lancaster in 1943].  Both men were committed for trial to West Kent Quarter Sessions, accused of a lengthy series of offences concerning fraud in hire purchase agreements.

Mr I Graham, prosecuting, said the cases arose from 'wholesale cheating by the defendants during last summer, in a second hand car business which they were operating in Chatham and Maidstone, under Cleaver's name.  They had deprived not only members of the public, but finance companies and fellow dealers, of many hundreds of pounds.  In July last year, Mr Graham alleged, a customer came to the defenants - who were trading at 'KT Car Sales' and through a trust company, bought a car from them.  Teh customer later returned his car and exchanged it for another, pointing out that the first car was stil the subject of a hire purchase agreement.  He was assured by the accused, that the balance would be paid, and in his presence they purported to telephone the finance compay regarding the matter. 2 months later, the customer received a letter from the trust company, saying that the balance on the care had not been paid. But Tugwell assured him that it had.  // Meanwhile another customer had bought the car from the defendants, paying for it through a different finance company.  He had brought them a moped to help pay for the car, and they had, for some reason, allowed him £75 for it, although he had originally bought it for only £73, said Mr Graham.  The remaining offences concerned transactions of a similar nature, in which the defenants had made agreements through finance companies in order to pay others, but the finance companies had never been paid.

Some of the cars sold by Cleaver and Tugwell came from a firm of dealers who supplied them to the defendants on a sale or return basis, Mr Graham alleged.  On one occasion, a representative of this firm called to reclaim three cars, but it was later discovered that in the meantime, one of them had been sold by the defendants, and had not been delivered to the customer.  On several occasions, it was alleged, this customer - who had paid a £60 deposit - called at the defendants' garage to collect the car, but was repeatedly put off with various excuses.

Another customer, who had attempted to buy a car from the defendants, was told by them that it had not been possible to make out a hire purchase agreement on the car, the court was told.  When he returned the vehicle, they gave him a cheque for £35, to cover his deposit and repairs which had carried out.  This cheque, however, was not met by the bank.

Tugwell was released on bail in his own surety of £100 and one other of £200.  Cleaver was retained in custody failing a separate surety of £200."

[I have been unable to find a report of the trial]

14 Apr 1961 Dartford Chronicle

Obituary of Herbert Meddick

(89) of Haggersville.  Emigrated to Canada as a boy, came back in 1911, married and moved to Hartley where he was one of the original smallholders and founder of the Agricultural Cooperative.  Former Parish Councillor.  Wife is 90 and founder member of WI.

Darby and Joan Club

Darby and Joan Club to return, meeting Old Downs on alternate Mondays.

Mains Drainage Delays

"Dartford Rural Council on April 4 approved a public health committee recommendation that an engineering assistant be appointed to undertake the preparation and supervision of the proposed West Kingsdown Sewerage Scheme…. Mr F T C Sims (Longfield) said it was understood that the West Kingsdown scheme would roughly coincide with the completion of the Hartley, Longfield and New Barn main sewerage scheme. 'I think we are being a little premature.  The Hartley, Longfield and New Barn scheme was to be completed in 18 months.  12 months have gone by and you can take it from me that it will not be finished in 6 months time.  It will probably be another 18 months.' he added..... Mr Brian F Kirby (Engineer and Surveyor)  said, 'It took quite 4 years working on and off to prepare the Hartley, Longfield and New Barn scheme.' ....."

14 Apr 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield to expand

"Longfield may soon undergo considerable expansion, as an outline application for the erection of houses, shops, a public house, post office and filling station in Station Road, has been accepted by the county council.  This was stated at the monthly meetinf of the parish council by Mr F T Sims, its representative on Dartford RDC.  'It looks as though the main shopping centre of the village will be in Station Road rather than Main Road very soon,' said Mr Sims.  He added that a further outline application had also been accepted for a public convenience and car park at the junction of Station Road and Essex Road."

Protest at Road Closure

"Contractors responsible for the laying of pipes in Hartley Road, Longfield, were severely criticised by members of the parish counicl at their monthly meeting on Monday.  The road has been closed to traffic since March 17th.  'This is absolutely disgraceful,' said Mr A E Potter, 'Great inconvenience has been caused to bus travellers because of changes in the bus stops.  To close a much used road for over a fortnight is just too much to tolerate.'  Council to complain to KCC.

Hartley Church APCM.   Rector said the Church Hall should be ready for use by the end of June.

Former Police Officer

Funeral at Longfield Church of Retired Met Police Sergeant Henry Sims of 221 Main Road, aged 79.  Retired after 24 years' service in 1921 and has lived in Longfield ever since.  Founder member and former steward of Hartley Social Club.  Leaves son and daughter.

21 Apr 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

County Council Election

Dartford Rural East Result: W Simmons (Con) 2,684 (75.8%), A J Easdown (Lab) 856 (24.2%).  Swing Lab > Con 7.3%.

Cons gain Dartford Rural West and Dartford West, Labour hold Dartford East by 4 votes.

21 Apr 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Youth Club

Has about 80 members and meets in the Congregational Church Hall on Tuesday and Friday evenings.  They are planning drama and discussion groups.

Hartley Darby and Joan Club

Picture of club members with leader Winnie Hall.

28 Apr 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Late Mr G Skelton

"The late Mr George Skelton who had been in business in the village as a hairdresser for 25 years was buried at Longfield on Tuesday…..Mr Skelton came to Longfield from Stepney and started a business in Station Road.  He later moved to premises in Whitehill road which he carried on until he retired through ill health 9 years ago.  He was 69.  A widow and son are bereaved."

Fundraising at Railway Tavern

"Charity begins at home says the old proverb, and this is certainly the case where the residents of Longfield are concerned, particularly the regulars at the Railway Tavern.  Over £60 has been collected for the British Cancer Research Campaign during hte last few months at the inn, due to the initiative and enterprise of the landlord Mr George White and his wife, and the generosity of their customers.  Money has been collected in the form of columns of pennies in each bar, one of which was officially 'knocked down' by Dave Charnley a few months ago, and by competitions and auctions.  'There is a friendly rivalry between the customers who use different ends of our public bar,' said Mrs White.  'Each end has its own column of pennies, and the patrons keep the amounts a deadly secret from each other!'  A local farmer, Mr Arthur Ferris [Prob 1927-2011], recently organised a rather unusual auction of a barrow load of cauliflowers in the Tavern, which raised an additional £3 10s for charity.  'Durign the 22 years we have kept the Tavern we have always meet with this kind of generosity from teh folk in Longfield, said Mrs White.' "

Longfield Hill WI

Celebrated their 31st anniversary at the Community Hall.

Minister agrees with council

Appeal against refusal for housing development at Copse Side dismissed.

The Cast of 'Harvey'

Picture of Hartley Players production.

05 May 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Village 'Mystery' House to go

"Longfield is soon to lose one of its oldest and most interesting buildings - Longfield Court - which stands in about 2 acres of land behind the parish church in Main Road.  The property has been sold by Dr P Read, who has lived here for several years.  The house is to be demolished to development.

Longfield Court has long beena mystery to historians as no records has been found to establish when it was built.  It is not mentioned in the register of Longfield's ancient church nor in the county archives at Maidstone.  It is believed, however, that parts of the house are almost as old as the church itself.  There are various theories about the original purpose of the building.  Much of its architecture is of an ecclesiastical nature, with thick walls and oak beams.  It was probably a priest's house and this theory would seem to be supported by the fact that an old wicket gate connects the grounds of the house with the church.  Several years ago an ancient goblet was unearthed in the grounds of the court.  Possibly when the demolition work begins other historic finds may be made."

Rare Sight

(Picture) "Thatcher Mr W A Jarvis, assisted by his 25 years old son [NAME] thatching the end of 'Woodins' Church Road, Hartley, the home of Mr E V Heath."

Longfield angry with rural council

Longfield PC meeting.  (1) Cllr R Mace proposes a library and better clinic services for Longfield, to make Longfield a centre for Hartley and Fawkham.  Cllr F T Sims thought a library would be unviable.  Kent County Council to be asked for comments.  (2) Many complaints about the sewerage works.  Hartley Road has been reopened but instead of reinstatement, the trench has been filled with stones and rubble, leading to one accident already.

Shock for teacher

"Entering Longfield Hill mission room to take Sunday School, Mrs D G Goodwin, School House, Longfield found the seats and floor covered with plaster which had fallen from the ceiling during the night.  A further examination revealed that most of the floor of hte building was rotten and had begun to cave in.  The Rector of Longfield, the Rev R Bavington said, 'The Mission Room is very old and has rapidly deteriorated over the last few years.  It should have been restored before it got into its present condition.'  It is not known how much the repairs will cost, but two anonymous persons have offered to donate the full amount necessary.  The work has already begun."

Hartley Players at their Best

"Harvey, Mary Chase's comedy about an imaginary giant white rabbit, presents few difficulties to any competent amateur dramatic society and was well within the scope of Hartley Players.  But they are to be congratulated on the thoroughnes with which they set about their task.  It was a polished, scintillating production which they put on at the Country Club Hall with all the performers displaying heaps of enthusiasm......."

Hodsoll Street Hall

Following completion and fitting out at a cost of £2,397 11s 8d (helped by £984 grant from Ministry of Education), the trustees handed over the running to a Management Committee.  They agreed to buy a record player and have acquired billiards and table tennis tables.  A Youth Club for boys aged 14-18 has been formed and will meet Fridays 7-10pm.  They also hope to form a cricket club.

12 May 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Obituary of Frank Bartholemew Langan

"The funeral took place on Tuesday after a service at St Anselm's RC Church Dartford of Mr Frank Bartholemew Langan (pictured), director and mill manager of London Paper Mills, Dartford, which is part of the Reed Paper Group.  The interment was at Watling Street Cemetery, Dartford.

Mr Langan, who was 64, lived at Hillside, Fawkham Road, Longfield.  He leaves a widow, 2 daughters and 2 sons, one of whom is employed at Empire Paper Mills, Greenhithe.  Mr Langan joined the group in 1913 and served his apprenticeship at London Paper Mills.  After service in the Royal Artillery in the First World War he worked at the Aylesford Paper Mills and Horton Kirby Mill.  In the early 30s he succeeded his father, who was killed in a place accident, as mill manager of London Paper mill and was appointed director of the company in 1951.

Mr Langan, who died unexpectedly when at work was particularly proud of the long service of employees at London Paper Mills; in some cases there are 2 or 3 generations of a family working side by side in the mill.  He took a keen interest in the welfare of his workpeople and was always willing to give advice on personal problems.  A keen follower of all sports, particularly soccer, he played himself as goalkeeper in his younger days.  He was instrumental in forming the London Paper Mills Football Club, the first works team to win the kent league championship.  The club also reached the first round proper of the FA Cup in 1934."

[London Paper Mills only lost 1-0 to 3rd division south team Southend; it was a good year locally, as Dartford reached the 2nd round proper]

12 May 1961 Chatham Observer

Martins Bank job advert

Shorthand typist/clerk wanted, age 17-21, salary £305 at 17 with annual increases.

Paper of 17/2/1961 has advert for male/female clerk aged 16-18.  Salary £295 pa.

12 May 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Car for Sale

Mr Hoath of Hartley Grange advertises 1947 Austin 16 Black 5 seater for £230

Playing Field for Hartley

Parish meeting attended by 50 voted in favour (with some against) of spending   £6,000 on purchase of land at Woodland Avenue for a playing field.

19 May 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield's May Queen Crowned

Revival of May Queen Festival.  Picture of 10 year old [NAME] of Longfield Primary school being crowned and congratulated by Mrs Doreen Phipps, the 1930 May Queen.

New Rural Wards

"Membership of Dartford RDC is to be increased from 20 to 27, it has been decided by the County Council's District and Parish Orders Sub-Committee.  The sub-committee has also agreed to create new wards for Dartford Rural elections in the parishes of Stone, Swanley, Sutton-at-Hone and Wilmington.  The revised membership of the council will be: Ash-cum-Ridley (1 member); Darenth (2), Eynsford (2), Farningham (1), Fawkham (1), Hartley (1), Horton Kirby (1), Longfield (1), Southfleet (1), Stone (4), Sutton-at-Hone (2), Swanley (6), West Kingsdown (1) and Wilmington (3).

Designs catamaran motor cruiser

Picture feature on Ralph Cowlard [prob 1923-2003] of Longfield, engineer and boat enthusiast builds world's first of its kind called Gilandiphe with help of 3 friends.

Art School's oldest student is 84

"The proud winner fo a bronze medal for a beautifully knitted shawl she entered at the Gravesend Cooperative Arts and Crafts Exhibition, is 84 years old Miss Margery Capper, 79 The Avenue, Gravesend, who has been blind in one eye for the past 8 years.  Miss Capper is the oldest student at Gravesend School of Art.  For the past 9½ years, Miss Capper has enjoyed her regular weekly lesson on embroidery at hte school surrounded by pupils many years younger than herself.

It is in teh field of church embroidery that Miss Capper's greatest interest lies, and she is at present working oan an embroiderd picture of the Archangel Gabriel which she intends to donate to the tiny Bethel Chapel at Longfield of which she has been a member for 50 years.

The walls of Miss Capper's home are lined with samples and pictures all worked in the most skilful embrodery.  Most of them she designed herself.  Last year Miss Capper spend most of her spare time making crocheted and knitted shawls for the Congo refugees whose interests she has greatly at heart.  Born in Blackheath, Miss Capper was the daughter of Mr John Capper, Assistant editor of the Times for 35 years, and has two sisters Dorothy and Gladys.  Between them, the sisters kept a journal of their lives.  Some years ago Miss Capper's sister Dorothy, edited the journal and a copy was printed and is at present at St Hilda's Hall, Oxford Univrsity.

As a girl Miss Capper attended a gardening college where she became a fully qualified gardener.  'I would like to have carried on gardening as a hobby,' said Miss Capper, 'but I find it too strenuous now.  Needlework and handcraft have always been my greatest loves,' she continued, 'but I enjoy reading too.'  Asked whether she intended to carry on with her classes at the Art School, Miss Capper said: 'Good gracious yes, I don't intent to give up for many years yet.' "

[Miss Capper previously lived at The Pales.  The house is still there but the land has become Quaker's Close in honour of Miss Capper's religion]

Late Mrs Shepperson

Obituary of Mrs Dorothy Rose Shepperson of Doverhay, Church Road, aged 66.  Lived in Hartley 30 years but an invalid for last few years.  Taught violin and piano.  Leaves widower and son.

Bus Diversion

Mains drainage works due to start in Church Road on May 23rd, when whole road will be closed, to be partially reopened on June 5th.  Details of diversions to routes 451 and 490.

26 May 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

To be ordained

"On Sunday Mr Ronald Philip Casebow [Pictured.  1931-2023], only son of Mr and Mrs A R Casebow, Hartley Court Cottage, Hartley, is to be ordained deacon by the Bishop of London in St Paul's Cathedral.  Mr Casebow was born in Bromley in 1931 and was educated at Dulwich College.  After doing National Service he went into the Royal Exchange Assurance in the City of London where he worked for some years before deciding to enter the ministry.  In 1959 he began training for holy orders at the Rochester Theological College.  Mr Casebow is to serve his first curacy at Christchurch, Southgate.  Last Sunday Mr Casebow read the lessons at morning service at All Saints' Hartley, and preached at Evensong."

Jumping Again

Mr James Galt [1921-1984], Springfield, Briars Way, Hartley, near Gravesend, a member of the 10th battalion TA Parachute Regiment spent the Whitsun weekend in camp practising jumps despite his lucky escape at a previous training session on May 14th.  He ws one of the stick of 5 men who parachuted from the balloon at Hornchurch just before it exploded.  The group of men who followed his stick into the balloon were those who had narrow escapes from death, the instructor and one man actually crashing to the ground from 800 feet in the cage beneath."

02 Jun 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Parish Council

(1) Part time Hartley Library issued 10,000 books last year.  (2) Increased traffic in St John's Lane while works go on in Church Road.

09 Jun 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Dog show aids Scouts' headquarters fund

Report and two photos of annual dog show and fete at Longfield Primary School, which raised £85 for 1st New Barn Scout Group.

Longfield Parish Council

(1) A E Potter re-elected chairman.  He has been on council over 30 years.  (2) Dartford RDC have sorted out the mess left by the drainage contractors at the allotments.  (3) Post box put up by sorting office so one by station will be removed.  (4) Ministry agree better ante natal facilities are needed at Longfield.

Country Club Bowls

Picture of Leicester County and Hartley Women's Bowls teams (Leicester won by 19 shots)

Confirmation

Bishop of Rochester confirmed 17 candidated and Rector performed one baptism at All Saints' Hartley.

Longfield Station

"Fawkham Station is being renamed Longfield for Fawkham and Hartley because the station is near Longfield village."

Church Fete at Hartley

RC fete raises £300 for repairs to church.  Has picture of Sara Bishop, aged 2 presenting flowers to the May Queen.

16 Jun 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Fayre

150 attend summer fayre at Hartley Congregation Church, which raised "a very useful sum to the Church heating fund."

Hartley's New Hall

"At morning service on Sunday, the Rector of Hartley, the Rev R A Williams spoke of the new church hall now nearing completion, as an achievement after years of labour.  Since 1944 the parishioners had been working to raise funds for this purpose.  When the new hall is opened on Friday June 23rd by the Archdeacon of Rochester, they would have the opportunity of seeing the result of their efforts.  The general design, he said, should be pleasing.  The interior decoration, especially the colouring couuld be described as contemporary, and other features were a stage, a projection room for film shows, and a room for small meetings.  He was confident that the new hall wold fill a much needed want not only for the church but for general Hartley purposes."

Kent Names in Birthday Honours List

Includes "Richard Charles Cox [1890-1976], senior executive officer, Commonwealth Relations Office (Hartley).  Joining the Civil Service in 1937, Mr Cox has spent considerable time overseas, serving particularly in Colombo, Calcutta and Bombay.  An ex-Gravesend Grammar School pupil, he lives with his wife and 8 years old son at Shepherds Field [Briars Way], Hartley.

17 Jun 1961 Daily Express

His tree climb saves cat

//  "A 28 year old ex-Merchant Navy man, [NAME], climbed an 80ft elm tree at Longfield, Kent, yesterday to rescue a cat stranded since Monday.  The cat's owner [NAME] of Dene Walk, Longfield, had said that unless someone rescued her before today he would have to shoot her."

23 Jun 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Two hurt

"Two motorcyclists were slightly injured when their machines were in collision in Main Road, Longfield.  They were Mr Victor Frederick Phipps, 41, of 51 Essex Road, Longfield and [NAME], 17, of Cedars, Manor Drive, Hartley.

Climbed 80ft tree to save cat

[NAME]  [pictured], a 28 years old docker at Tilbury, who lives at 27 Nelson Road, Northfleet, left home on Friday morning to get a haircut before going to work.  On the way he heard about a cat which had been up an 80ft elm tree at Longfield since the previous Monday and could not be rescued despite several attempts to do so.  [NAME] rode out to Longfield on his cycle, climbed the tree to the topmost branch and rescued the cat.

It was lucky for Kitty, a fine black cat with a white nose, that [NAME] heard about its predicament because it had been decided to shoot at it if it could not be brought down by Saturday.  Kitty is owned by [NAME] of 34 Dene Walk, Longfield [Problem here, Dene Walk not numbered up to 34].

Its cries were heard by various people living near the giant elm and attempts were made to reach it.  But each time it went higher up in the tree and could finally be seen perched on a swaying branch a long way from the ground.  The Fire Brigade was called in to help, but found there was no room to manoeuvre an extension ladder.  When [NAME] arrived Kitty was still mewing piteously.  He walked round the massive trunk of the tree to see which was the best way to clim it, and [NAME] who lives at Durlston, [1] Dene Walk, gave him some food to tempt the cast and also a net to catch it in.  [NAME] slowly climbed the tree.  The cat kept climbing away from him until it could go no further.  'Several times I nearly caught it', said [NAME], 'but it was badly frightened and tried to scratch me.  At last I managed to get it interested in the food I was holding.  I slipped the net over it and then lowered it to the ground by a fishing line.  It was just the thing as I could not have gone up the tree carrying anything heavy.'   [NAME] said there were several dead branches at the top of the tree and he broke some of them during his climb.  His job was made more difficult becuase there was a strong breeze which caused the tree to sway.  'I was in the Merchant Navy for 10 years', said xx Mr Horne, 'and am used to climbing about on the rigging of ships.  I went out to Longfield on the spur of the moment.  I love all animals and hated to think that Kitty might have to die.'  Apart from being rather terrified and hungry, Kitty seemed none the worse for her adventure."

Hartley Old Folk will get TV

REport of fete at Old Downs Home for amenities.  They had hoped to raise enough for a TV and easily achieved that, raising £88.  Features picture of many children and parents watching the punch and judy show.

24 Jun 1961 Gravesend Reporter

Longfield Garage Celebrates 50 Years in Business

When in June 1911 Mr John Sims took over the business of cycle-maker and repar specialist in Station Road, Longfield, he could not have imagined the growth and the change of trade that was to unfold during the coming 50 years.  Because when he took over from Mr 'Bill' Lynds, the trade comprised mostly repairs to bicycles, the sale of accessories and repairs to motorcycles - a means of travel which was fast becoming very popular.  Now cars form the backbone of the business.  It was really an accident which made Mr Sims buy the business.  He was employed by J and B Martin, a firm of builders, but was forced to give up the work following an accident.  With the compensation money he bought the cycle shop.

The premises in Station Road which he bought have since been acquired by Mr William Leeves, who trades there as a butcher.  [gap in photocopy] ... premises opposite the Railway Tavern, from where Sims garage still operates.

Members of the family at present connected with the garage are Mr Bill Sims and his younger brother Mr John Sims.  They worked wiht their father for many years, and after he died in February 1939, decided to carry on the business under the controlling hand of Mrs Sims. Mrs Sims carried on her interest in the garage until she died last year.

It was a memorable day in the history of the garage when, in 1926, the first petrol pump was installed.  A second followed in the next 12 months, and a third took its position in hte garage forecourt in 1929.  'They were all hand pumps in those days,' said Mr Bill Sims, 'and sales were nothing near as great as they are at the present time.'

In 1931 electricity came to the village of Longfield, and Sims garage was able to modernise its equipment.  'During the first world war, before the pumps were installed, we were rationed to 4 cans of petrol per week,' said Mr Sims. He added that the price of a gallon was then 5s 10d.

February 3rd 1959 [sic - should be 1939], the day on which Mr Sims died, will long be remembered in the history of the village, because not only did they lose a well known and lifelong resident, but it marked the arrival of the first electric train at the local station.

In 1934 Sims garage introduced a new service for the residents.  Their first taxi came onto the scene and commenced a service which is still maintained.

Of the present premises Mr Bill Sims says that they have been used for nearly every type of trade.  Among the uses he knows it has been put to are a clubroom, bakehouse, greengrocers, general stores and a newsagents.  Longfield and district and the garage trade have changed considerably over the past 50 years, but there is one change that sticks in the mind of Mr Sims.  'Before the last war it was the regular thing to have up to 20 chauffeur-driven cars waiting to be filled up at 8.30 in the morning,' he said.  'Now a visit from this type of vehicle is quite an event.'  

Mr John Sims senior was one of the leading residents of the village, and during the 1920s was an active member of the Parish Council.  He was also interested in gardening and presented a cup to the local cottage gardeners association.  To celebrate 50 years' garage service under the name of Sims, the present owners have decided to give support ot the fete being organised by the local brance of the British Legion tomorrow (Saturday).  Among the attractions they have organsised is a five seater cycle, which will take its place in the carnival procession.  At the fete they will have a stand which will outline the changes of travel that have taken place during the last half century.

Pictured outside the shop acquired by Mr John Sims in 1911 are, left to right, two of his children, John and Ethel (now Mrs Searle) and their cousin.  At present the premises are being used as a butcher's shop by Mr W Leeves."

30 Jun 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield has gala day

Picture feature of British Legion 6th annual fete at Longfield Rectory Meadow.  Description of procession of floats.  Trade section won by Longfield Radio with runners up Sims Garage and Earls Car Hire.  The other section winner was Longfield OAP, followed by Longfield PTA and Hartley Girl Guides.  Results of flower show.

07 Jul 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Stole Cheque from Inland Revenue

"Said to be a man of 'excellent character', [NAME], a 24 years old factory worker of Hartley Manor, Hartley, near Dartford, was given a conditional discharge at Kent Assizes after he pleaded guilty to stealing an Inland Revenue cheque valued at £32 9s 7d.  Smith, who picked up the cheque on the caravan site where he lives, offered in court to repay the entire amount to the Inland Revenue."

07 Jul 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley Fete raises £200 for cancer fund

"Hartley's parish garden fete and flower show in the Rectory Garden was supported by 18 local organisations and attracted an attendance of well over 1,000 people.  The event raised more than £200 for cancer research.  The Rector (the Rev R A Williams) siad the village could be proud of the result.  He was particularly glad to see members of St Francis de Sales RC chruch and the Congregational Church taking such an energetic part in the fete and welcomed the many new residents of Hartley who came along......" Article contains further details and includes a picture of Yvonne Fry, wife of Fete Chairman John Fry helping [NAME], vice-chairman o fthe National Appeals committee of hte British Empire Cancer Campaign, opening the fete.

Longfield Parish Council

(1) Dartford RDC say factory waste at Pinden would be harmless, but PC still object because they don't know what will be dumped in years to come.  (2) County Medical officer agrees Village Hall not completely satisfactory for clinic services but PC said their issue was with the equipment not the hall.  (3) Langafel Close.  "During a discussion on impending development at Longfield Court, where the house is to be demolished.  Mr Sims said the RDC was in full touch with the developers and so far only 5 trees there had been felled.  These had to go to make way for development, but the developers would confer with the RDC before any more trees come down.  'While everyone want to see trees preserved, some must go where there is development,' he said, 'The RDC will try to get a layout for the estate which will preserve as many trees as possible."

Obituary of Mrs Ethel Dewhurst

Of Le Stocks Farm, Church Road since 1954, died suddenly aged 81.  Had been married 56 years.  Member of Hartley and Ash OAP Club.

21 Jul 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Youth Clubs

Meeting of the three Hartley churches and other organisations to discuss future of Youth Clubs and the possibility of coordination.  All three church leaders to serve on committee for this purpose.

Old Firm to go

"The final steps for the winding up of the old established firm, Hartley Agricultural Supplies Ltd were taken at an extraordinary general meeting held in the institute hall when a resolution formally moved by the chairman Mr William Simmons, that a liquidator be appointed was approved.  The chairman explained tha thte distribution of the company's assets to shareholders could not be made for some time owing to the lengthy legal procedure involved, and, of course, until some outstanding debts were collected.  He assured the meeting, however, that shareholders would eventually receive more than the value of their shares...."

28 Jul 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Late Mr Albert Edward Jarrett

Of 1 Elm Terrace, died after long illness aged 61.  Native of Longfield and gardener by occupation.   Funeral at Longfield.

04 Aug 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Has lots of relations!

[NAME] baby daughter of [NAME], Essex Road, Longfield, has 2 grandfathers, 2 grandmothers, 4 great-grandmothers and 1 great-grandfather.  The grandparents are Mr and Mrs T Foster, St John's Villa, Station Road, Longfield, and Mr and Mrs F Wood, Siding Cottages, Longfield Hill.  The great-grandparents are Mr and Mrs A Wood, 34 Fawkham Road, Longfield, who are both 75; Mrs Thrift, 43 Kent Road, 72; Mrs Baker, 85, of Siding Cottage, and Mrs J Foster, 85 of St John's Villa.  Mrs Foster has 32 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchilden. Mr and Mrs Wood have 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.  [NAME] is [NAME] first child."

Objected to making a census return

"Hamish N Robertson, Old Rectory, Ridley, near Gravesend, who was fined £5 and £5 15s costs at Dartford for failing to make a census return, was said to have written across the form issued earlier this year 'I regret that I must absolutely decline to complete this form, which I regards as an intolerable and unjustifiable interference in the privacy of the individual.'  In a letter to the court, Mr Robertson stated: 'I find mysel funable for reason of conscience to complete the return presented to me and I announce it to that effect.  I understood at the time and understand now that I must accept whatever consequent penalty your justices may decide to impose, but I can only express the hope that they will take into consideration that my unwillingness to complete the form was neither frivolous nor in any way malevolent.' "

Flower Club

"It was decided at a meeting to form a Hartley District Flower Club. Mrs G Simmons, of Ash, agreed to be the first president. The club will meet monthly, the first meeting to be in Hartley Institute on September 7th.  'September Glory' is the subject for this meeting and anyone who is interested is invited to come along with flowers and container.  The club is open to all residents in Hartley District. The chairman is Mrs G Tate."

Balloon Race

"Winner of the balloon race at the recent village fete was [NAME], whose balloon landed at Banham, near Norwich."

Hartley Parish Council Meeting

(1) Highways.  Soakaway at Hoselands Hill to be cleared and water at bottom of Stocks Hill to be dealt with.  (2) Footpaths.  Council report poor state of Fairby Lane - Fawkham footpath. (3) Vandalism.  A lot reported in the area including the parish council noticeboard outside the WI Hall.

Scout chief to resign

Due to other commitments Mr P C Hewett of Homefield Ash Road, Hartley has resigned at Gravesend District Commissioner for area's 11,000 boy scouts.  Outline of his scouting career. "Mr Hewett, a Civil Servant, is a deacon and treasurer of Hartley Congregational Church and also the Sunday School superintendnt.  He is chairman of the Hartley Youth Club Management committee. His wife is cubmaster of Hartley and Longfield pack.

Parish Merger?

"A few years ago there were proposals to merge the ecclesiastical parishes of Longfield and Hartley, but as a result of strong opposition from the people of Hartley the plan was not proceeded with and both villages still have their own rector.  But I gather the plan has not been shelved entirely and attempts to merge the parishes may be made again in the future.

Towards the end of last month the ecclesiastical secretary of the Lord Chancellor who now holds the patronage of the Longfield living paid a brief visit to the village.  The Rev R Bavington, rector, and church officers showed him round and he spoke about the move to join the parishes of Longfield and Hartley under one rector.  'The secretary expressed regret that the merger did not come off and he left us with the feeling that the proposal would come up again.' the rector told me.  'Shortage of manpower is the main reason for the merging of parishes, but a parish which has a vigorous church life and can stand on its own feet, has a much better chance of retaining its own incumbent than one which is stagnant.' "

11 Aug 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Kent Editor for 42 Years

"A prominent figure in Kent newspaper circles, Mr Arthur Witt [pictured], managing editor of the Gravesend and Dartford Reporter for almost 42 years, has died aged 75.  He was cremated at the Medway Crematorium yesterday.

Mr Witt, who lived at Tree Tops [Fairby Lane], Hartley, had been ill for nearly a fortnight and died in Joyce Green Hospital, Dartford after an operation.  He first joined the Reporter in 1914, and after Army service in France from 1915 to 1919, he rejoined the paper and succeeded the later Mr F A Mansfield as managing editor.  Other newspapers on which he had served previously were the Southampton Times, the Evening Argus, Brighton; Walsall Advertiser, Maidenhead Chronicle and Bucks Advertiser.

During his long period in charge of the North Kent newspaper he had seen many notable changes - a new tabloid format, the replacement of advertisements for news on the front page and technical improvements including the installation of a three-deck high speed rotary press.

Through his occupation and his friendly disposition, Mr Witt enjoyed a wide circle of friends.  Between the wars he played cricked for Gravesend for many years, and skippered Hartley Country Club for several seasons.  At Hartley he was one of the originators of the Country Club as it is now known, and for several years was chairman of its board of directors.

Mr Witt leaves a widow and 2 married daughters - Mrs Norman Fison Clarke [Sheila F Clarke 1919-1991], who lives at Farningham, and Mrs David Sleep [June F Sleep 1925-2000], who resides on the Isle of Wight."

11 Aug 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Bus Diversion

"London Transport has been told by Dartford RDC that the work on the laying of a main sewer in Church Road, which began in May, will not now be completed by next Monday as was expected.  Because of this buses on routes 451 and 490 will have to continue to use the temporary terminus at St John's Road for another week or perhaps longer...."

Kent Editor for 42 Years

"A prominent figure in Kent newspaper circles, Mr Arthur Witt, managing editor of the Gravesend and Dartford Reporter for almost 42 years, has died aged 75.....Mr Witt, who livd at Tree Tops, [Fairby Lane], Hartley had been ill for nearly a fortnight, and died in Joyce Green Hospital, Dartford after an operation.

He first joined the Reporter in 1914 and after army service in France from 1915 to 1919 he rejoined he newspaper and succeeded the late Mr F A Mansfield as Managing Editor.  Other newspapers on which he had served previously were the Southampton Times, The Evening Argus Brighton, Walsall Advertiser, Maidenhead Chronicle and Bucks Advertiser.

During his long period in charge of the North Kent newspaper he had seen many notable chnages - a new tabloid format, the replacement of advertisements for news on the front page and technical improvements including the installation of a three-deck high speed rotary press.

Through his occupation and his friendly dispostion Mr Witt enjoyed a wide circle of friends.  Between the wars he played cricket for Gravesend for many years, and skippered Hartley Country Club for several seasons.  At Hartley he was one of the originators of the Country Club as it is now known and for several years was chairman of its board of directors.  Mr Witt leaves a widow and two married daughters......."

18 Aug 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Gorsewood House for Sale

(Advert) "Messrs Champion and Waterman have received instructions to sell by auction 3.02 acres with outline planning permission for residential development, including the freehold detached house known as 'Gorsewood House', Gorse Way, Hartley.  Containing 5 bedrooms, 3 reception rooms, kitchen, bathroom, garage.  On Wednesday 13th September 1961 at the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel, Dartford at 3pm.  Particulars, plan and conditions of sale from the auctioneers: Messrs Champion & Waterman, 15 Lowfield Street, Dartford..."

[This is the site of the future Beechlands Close]

18 Aug 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Junior Church

"At the [Hartley] Church council meeting, the rector (the Rev R A Williams) presiding, it was agreed that with a view to enabling children to become practising members of the Church, a Sunday morning junior church will be held in the church hall.  Arrangements will be made for these children to attend morning service in the church once a month...."

08 Sep 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Goods yard as car park?

"The British Transport Commision has told Longfield Parish Council that it is likely that the goods yard at Longfield and Hartley station will be closed.  When this letter was read at Monday's meeting of the counicl it was decided to reply stating the council regretted the need to close the yard.  Mr E A Martin suggested that if the yard was closed it would be a good idea to turn it into a car park.

In reply to a letter from the parish council, about the use of the village hall as a child welfare centre, the county council wrote saying that the facilities were reasonaly adequate but that arrangements  were being made for a screen to be placed near the door to exclude draughts.  The hot water supply for clinical purposes was to be improved and a sterilising machine had been provided."

Best Kept Gardens

Dartford RDC best kept council house garden competition for Longfield, Hartley & Fawkham area won by A H Capes [Albert H Capes 1921-2001] of 10 Wellfield; with the aged persons award going to G A Officer  [George Alexander 1914-2003] of 7 Fawkham [Green] Road.

Hartley Obituaries

(1) Mrs Nellie Edith Tarnow.  Died Joyce Green Hospital, aged 71.  Had lived in Manor Drive with her husband Albert Victor Tarnow, a retired major in REME, for 16 years near one of her married daughters.    Spent a lot of time abroad on foreign postings, including China.

(2) Gerald Ernest Daviss.  Died aged 80.  Had lived all 40 years of married life at Walden, Hartley Hill.  Served in RAMC in WW1 and in Kent House Longfield Civil Defence in WW2.  Leaves widow.

(3) Harold Tom Withers of Burwell Church Road, aged 67.  Lived at Hartley 22 years.  Was accountant with Gravesend firm for 30 years.  Leaves widow and 3 sons.

(4) Charles Appleton.  "By the death of Mr Charles Appleton, Hartley has lost a well-known resident.  Before coming to Hartley, Mr Appleton had a very interesting and varied career as a Middle East representative of a big steel firm and lived with his wife in Egypt for a number of years.  Besides his commercial ability he was an accomplished linguist and a Fellow of the Institute of Linguists.  When business was adversely affected by the slump of the thirties, Mr Appleton came to Hartley in 1934 and for a time worked as language master in a school which was then held at Old Downs.  Mrs Appleton, who is an MSc also started a school at their house in Fairby Lane.  All their 6 children had a university education.  Two sons were killed in the last war, and two daughters are now living in Canada.  Their third son is a Wing-Commander in the RAF and the remaining daughter now lives with her mother at Holly Cottage, Castle Hill, Hartley.  The funeral took place on Wednesday at All Saints' Church, Hartley."

22 Sep 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

End of ancient priory

"The work of demolishing Longfield Court, Longfield, once a Benedictine priory in the days when the village was little more than a collection of huts on top of Longfield Hill is now in progress an daleady some interesting finds have been made.

The roof beams of the old building which have so far been evealed ae identical to those of the parish church nearby.  This would indicate that the church and the priory were built at about the same time.

There is a local legend that there is a passage running from Longfield Court to the church, but it has never been found.  [NAME] of Hartley, who is the demolition contractor, helped by [NAME], thought he have found signs of the entrance to this passage in the cellar of the house, but it turned out to be a false alarm.

In the roof they discovered one of the original wattle and daub walls of the priory that was hidden by a later addition to the house.  They are uncovering the rest of the wall carefully in the hope of finding traces of religious paintings.

Behind the plaster of an upstairs wall a Victorian doll and a pair of chisel toed shoes of the same period were found.  A box of pistol caps used in an old flintlock type of gun were also discovered behind plaster.

For many years, Longfield Court, which is being pulled down to make way for building development, was the rectory.  About 100 years ago it was purchased by the Hickmott family, where were great benefactors to the village."

22 Sep 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Gains Degree at Princeton

"A former pupil of Wrotham Road Primary School, Gravesend and Gravesend Grammar School, 24 years old Ronald Clive Prime [1937-1974], younger son of Mr and Mrs C A Prime, Southdown, Manor Drive, Hartley has gained an MSc degree at Princeton University in the United States.  He was in goodly company at the graduation ceremony, for also honoured on the same day were Mr Dean Rusk, the American Secretary of State, Mr Douglas Dillon, the Treasury Secretary of America and Mr Henry Cabot Lodge, a former US Ambassador.

After leaving Southampton University, where he gained a first class honours BSc degree, Ronald took a 2 year postgraduate course with a British Cable company, continuing his special study of electrical engineering.  He then accepted an opportunity to go to Princeton University for 12 months with a $3,000 grant.  There he did a certain amount of laboratory teaching, but had the opportunity of research work for his degree.

He is now carrying out research study on microwaves with the Bell Telephone Company in Boston.

An excellent sportsman, Ronald won the Victor Ludorum at Gravesend Grammar School.  He also received his rugger colours there and at Southampton University.  And in America he has played for the Princeton University Team.  Ronald has an elder brother [NAME], who is in Australia, also on research work.  Mr and Mrs Prime hope that some time next year both their sons will be able to return home for a holiday in Britain together."  [This article is a bit of its time as it failed to mention Mr & Mrs Prime also had a 16 year old daughter, who later became a well regarded local solicitor]

22 Sep 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

C M Ellerby & Son Contractors

Advert.  Including ploughing from 30 shillings per acre, manure loading and speading from 4 shillings per ton.

29 Sep 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Drainage work hold up worries council

Hartley Parish Council meeting.  (1) Delays in mains drainage works in Church Road due to exceptionally deep trenches needed in places and a dispute between contractors which means work has practically stopped leaving an open trench.  (2) PC against closure of Longfield Station goods yard as they think it will result in more coal lorries.

06 Oct 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Springcroft Residents

"Following informal meetings in Springcroft, a special meeting of residents was held at the institute hall on Saturday.  Over 40 of the 68 residents attended…... [List of officers] …..  Mr Payne  outlined the objects of the Associationwhich included the promotion of the interest and amenities of hte residents of Springcroft, immediate priority being given to the problems arising from the installation of main drainage, to encourage gardening and other DIY activities and for this purpose to try an darrange for bulk buying of supplies, materials, equipment etc., to promote the social side and generally any other matter which would be for the benefit of Springcroft residents.  Mr Payne said that while Springcroft had no intention of, as it were, isolating itself from the rest of Hartley, its position as a cul-de-sac somewhat remote from the main part of the village was unique and the formation of this association was an expression of the views of those concerned.  There was no reason why the Springcroft association should not be extended to other roads in Hartley or to join in existing social activities.  The important problem at the moment was main drainage and correspondence between the Association and the RDC on this subject was read.  Fro this it transpired that the Council would nto consider paying for lateral connections from the main drain to the houses in Springcroft.  Apart from thsi geneal dissatisfaction was epxressed by the meeting of the vague terms of the council's letterand particularly by its omission to say anything about the reinstatement of the surface of the road to its former first class condition.  Before the meeting closed, therefore, the committee was authorised to pursue the matter in the most energetic manner with the RDC and endeavour to reach a satisfactory solution of this problem."

All Saints' Church Hall

Rector announced Tuesday Schedule - 1st of month - Men's Fellowship; 2nd - General Fellowship; 3rd - Women's Fllowship; 4th - Bible Study.  And from 8 October Sunday Junior Church from 10.45am.

Auction of New House and North Ash Farms

"By order of the trustees of hte estate of the late Allen Ansell.... Notice of sale by auction by Messrs Prall & Prall of the freehold agricultural investments known as New house Farm, Hartley (272 Acres), North Ash Farm, Hartley (155 acres) and Dynes & West House Estate Kemsing 29½ acres.  All subject to yearly agricultural tenancies and producing £651 per annum.  At the Royal Victoria & Bull Hotel, Dartford on Wednesday 15th November 1961 at 2.30pm......"

[A momentous sale as the buyers were the developers of New Ash Green]

Hartley Thursday Club

In recognition of club's work for the WVS Family Service Unit, Yvonne Fry has been invited to Queen Mother's reception at Mansion House.  Meeting also called for Hartley to have a Swimming Pool.

13 Oct 1961 Tonbridge Free Press (KM)

Marriage at Longfield

Woman Police Constable [NAME] (pictured), who has served 11 years with the Kent County Constabulary at Margate, retires from the force in December to get married.

Her fiance is 41 years old marine engineer Mr Roy Donald Robb  [1920-1994] of 18 Main Road, Longfield, near Dartford.  [NAME], aged 32 lives at no. 23 Main Road.

Before either Roy or Amy were born their parents were close friends.  Her father Mr James [NAME] [1887-1965], was the village policeman at Darenth.  As the years passed the families moved away from Darenth, and it was not until 5 months ago that Mr and Mrs [NAME] and Mrs Robb became neighbours once more.  'Although I knew his mother, I never met Roy until a month ago,' said [NAME].  'Our first meeting could not have been in less romantic circumstances.  I had got up early to go mushrooming.  I was wearing an old pair of slacks, Wellington boots, a sloppy sweater with the dog's hairs on it, and was not wearing make up.  Roy had gone to the same field from the opposite direction.  Apparently the whole village had been whispering romance - and we were the last to know of it.'  They became engaged this week and plan to marry at the Mary Magdalen Church, Longfield, on December 2nd.  The one bridesmaid will be [NAME], a policewoman at Rochester, who shared a flat with [NAME] during her 2½ years' service at Margate."  [This article shows the unequal treatment of women even comparatively recently.  It is almost certain that the decision to retire was forced upon her as many employers at the time sacked women for getting married.]

13 Oct 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Golden Wedding

of Mr & Mrs James Cove of Higham.  Mr Cove who is 74 was born at Hartley and attended Northfleet Board School.  Moved to Cliffe in 1899.

16 Oct 1961 Daily Express

Bingo Upsets the Rector

"The rector of Longfield, Kent, the Rev Reginald Bavington [1902-1963] has resigned as chairman of the committee which runs the village hall in his parish because he does not agree with bingo sessions being held there.  Rector's warden Mr Dudley Goodwin [prob 1919-1993] said yesterday: 'Most of the church council and churchgoers do not agree with the rector's strict views on gambling.' "

Paper of 3/11/1961 has letter of complaint from Rev Bavington.  He claimed what Mr Goodwin said was untrue.  He told the PCC before they appointed him what his views were and they still offered him the job.  Gambling industry turns over £500m per annum and is non-productive except in misery. Paper spoke to Mr Goodwin who stood by his comments that 95 per cent of the PCC do not agree with the Rector in banning things like raffles.

20 Oct 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Rector objects to bingo in village hall

"The Rector of Longfield, the Rev Reginald Bavington, who always bans raffles at church fetes, sprang a surprise at the annual meeting of Longfield Village Hall by resigning at chairman of the hall committee and as a trustee, because bingo sessions are held there.  His place as chairman is likely to be taken by his right hand man among the laity of the church, Mr Dudley Goodwin [1919-1993], who has been rector's warden for 9 years.

The bingo sessions in the hall are run by the local branch of the British Legion.  The rector said after the annual meeting of the village hall that he did not agree with any form of gambling and as a matter of principle he had to resign.  'The hall badly needs money for improvements, but I do not agree that it shoudl be raised in any way through bingo,' he said.  'My resignation does not mean that I shall no longer take any interest in the hall.  The rector of Longfield has always been chairman of the hall committee since the hall was opened in 1921.  I ams orry to take th estop I have, but if bingo isallowed in the hall, I have no alternative.'

About 95 per cent of hte church council nad many other members of the congregation did not agree with the Rector's strict views on gambling, Mr Goodwin of School House, Longfield, a 42 years old administrative officer at a factory, told a reporter.  'We would very much like to have raffles and guessing the number of bean in a jar contests at our fetes for the church, because it is difficult to raise money without them.  We  have not had them because we respect the views of the rector..  As for bingo, Longfiel has always been a great place for whist drives and no-one would dream of organising a meeting of any sort in the village on the night one was on.  There seems to be little difference in principle between that an bingo.  One has to draw a line somewhere and whereas one must be dead against the hard form of gambling whereby people suffer from too much of it, bingo seems innocent enough.  The only bingo I have playes is a game or two after a whist drive and in those days we called it housey-housey.'

Over 150 people attend weekly bingo sessions at the hall and people queue up to get in half an hour before the starting time.  Inspired by the British Legion success, a second series has been started on another night of the week in the community hall, Longfield Hill.  A poster advertising it is on the front garden fence of the rector's warden, Mr Goodwin!"

Elsewhere paper reports profit in previous year of £20 2s 6d and that it had been well booked throughout the year except on Saturdays, hall used most evenings.  [Article includes pictures of Rev Bavington and Mr Goodwin]

Springcroft Residents

"A second meeting of the new association was held in the parish hall on Sunday.  Over 40 members attended and Mr A Payne [Alfred Robert Payne 1912-2000] presided.  After discussion and further explanation by the chairman the terms of reference for the association were adopted.  It was evident, however, that the topic with which the meeting was chiefly concerned was gthe main drainage.  Mr Payne read further letters which had been sent to the rural concil, the county council and the water company, asking for clarification on some points and information on others.  Apart from an acknowledgement from teh RDC no replies had yet been received. but it was understood ath the question of a satisfactory water pressure had been settled.  [NAME], hon Secretary of hte association's gardening section gave details of some gardening needs which could be obtained for members and as regards house maintenance, [NAME], agreed to make enquiries as to the possibility of obtaining tools and materials on wholesale terms for members of the association.  Mr Holbrook gave particulars as to the cost of resurfacing Manor Drive and it was agreed that further investigations should be made.  It was also decided to hold a children's party in the parish hall on January 6th."

Bishop's Visit

RC Bishop of Southwark confirm 36 at St Francis de Sales.

Proud at having their own medals

Winnie Hall of 3 Fairby Grange Cottages, Ash Road, one of 20 winners of WVS long service medal (picture of winners).

27 Oct 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Does Longfield lack a community spirit? - Rivalry between village and the hill

"Longfield has no rich history spanning the centuries - like some of its neighbours  and it really began to grow when the railway line came.  It is not a beautiful village but charming spots  are to be found.  Longfield straggles along on both sides of the main roadand at one end there is Longfield Hill.  There is a kind ofrivalry between the village proper and th hill which seems to be growing as the village develops.  Since the war there has been considerable development in Longfield; many people who work in London find it convenient to live in the village because of the good railway service to the city.

Many of the older residents say that compared with some of hte surrounding villages Longfield lacks a community spirit.  It is true that its social life is not strong,but it is a great place for whist!  The old parish church and Longfield Court, a mansion which was once a Benedictine Priory and which is now being demolished to make way for new development, are proof that people have lived there for hundreds of years.  But little is left of the past and as Longfield looks to the future and watches the new estates springing up, it wonders how long it will be before it ceases to be a village and becomes a townlet.

The influence of  Longfield Hill is strong.  It is the Longfield Hill Cricket Club, the Longfield Hill WI.  It has its own community hall and the tendency is for the residents there to regard themselves as separate from the rest of the village.  The Rector, the Rev Reginald Bavington, who came to Longfield last year, was for many years a missionary on the borders of Tibet,  'I think there is a lack of community spirit here,' he said.

When anything goes on in Longfield you may be sure that Mr Norman Goff, headmaster of the village primary school since 1938, is right in the middle of it.  Big and jolly, Mr Goff said the number of pupils at his school has more than doubled since he came there.  'The advent of so many newcomers  is causing a major social change in the village,' he said, 'and the great thing is to try and make them feel at home and to join in village activities.'

One of the oldest businesses in Longfield is the garagewhich has grown out of a cycle business started by the late Mr John Sims and now carried on by his sons, Messrs Bill and John Sims.  Bill recalled the Longfield he knew as a boy - a small place where everyone knew each other and there was plenty of social life.  He does not think that Longfield has improved as it has grown.  'It's good for business certainly,' he said,'but the place is becoming too suburban.  I prefer it as it used to be.'

Churchwarden Dudley Goodwin who lives at the Schoolhouse with his wife, belongs to one of Longfield's oldest families who are mentioned in the church records as far back as the 17th century.  Mrs Joan Goodwin is pleased to see Longfield growing, but regrets the departure of old landmarks such as Longfield Court.  She has strong feelings about the lack of adequate playing fields for the children of the village. 'They are worse off than many town children in this respect.'  she said.  And she regrets the way in which the residents tend to divide themselves into two sections - the village proper and the hill.

For 8 years, Mr Thomas Elsworthy has kept a general store and newsagent's business in Main Road.  He puts the lack of community spirit down to the sprawling nature of the village.  'It is hard to get people together when they live so far away from each other,' he said.  He would like to see a later posting time in the village. 'It is 4.15 pm now,' he said 'and that's crazy from a business point of view.'  Mr Eric Know who became Longfield's sub-postmaster not long ago does not agree that the village has no community spirit.  'I find everyone here most friendly,' he said, 'and the newcomers seem to like the place and are settling down well.  The atmosphere is certainly not suburban.'

Once Longfield had its own volunteer fire brigade which was something of a joke in the village although it did good work.  The only survivor is Tommy Longhurst, 2 Fern Cottages, [20] Essex Road, aged 82 who said the really great days of the brigade came after teh firemen, all 10 of them, got their uniforms and brass hats.  The brigade was divided into two sections - there were 5 members at Longfield Hill under the captain, Mr George Lynds, and 5 in the Essex Road area in charge of the vice-captain, Mr Fred Harris.  The brigade had no bright red engine to take the firemen to a blaze.  Each section had to make do with a hand truck carrying a few lengths of hose and a standpipe.  'Where there was a fire - and there was nothing serious while was in the brigade - the man who heard about it first went round calling out the others', said Tommy, whose family have lived in Longfield for well over a century.

No-one has given greater service to Longfield than Mr Arthur Potter, 27 Essex Road, who is a well liked personality.  He is chairman of the parish counicl, played the tenor horn in the now vanished Longfield Band and was its secretary.  His geates work has been for the local branch of the British Legion, which honoured him by making him a life vice-president.  He has served on the council for 30 years and is anxious to see the village provided with a recreation ground.  Arthur regrets that many local associations such as the once flourishing horticultural society have faded away and he thinks that since he came to Longfield in 1926 it has lost much of its rural charm and is becoming a small town.

Mr Arthur Leney, 53 Essex Road, who came to Longfield from Fawkham in 1945, has no idea how many whist drives he has organised but he has raised well over £1,000 for charity by holding them.  It really began in the last war when the air raids were at their worst.  He formed a committee at Fawkham to run whist drives in aid of the Red Cross and St John Ambulance Brigade.  In 4 years these drives raised nearly £500.  He has also raised a large sum fo rthe King George Fund for Sailors.  Main drainage is coming to the village and a secondary school to serve a big area is also planned to be built there.   But the much needed recreation ground is somthing which Longfield folk have really got to do something about."

Photos: (1) In his study, the Rector of Longfield, Rev R Bavington; (2) Fill it up - Mr J F Sims at his garage in Essex Road, Longfield [sic]; (3) Postmaster Mr E Know filling a stamp machine outside the post office; (4) Mr A Potter; (5) Mr A Leney; (6) Newsagent Mr T S Elworthy marking papers ready for the delivery boys; (7) Mr N T Goff, headmaster, Longfield Village School, watched by interested pupils as he threads up the film in the projector, a recent gift from the PTA; (8) Mr E J Miles, landlord of the Green Man, Longfield Hill.

Women's Fellowship

"The Rector [of Hartley], the Rev R A Williams, called a meeting of churchwomen in the parish hall for the purpose of discussing the formation of a CE Women's Fellowship.  It was agreed that meetings should be held in the parish hall for this on the first Thursday in each month." [I understand the intention was to replace the Mothers' Union]

Presentation

Gold watch given to Mrs E G Leney who retired after 10 years at Old Downs.

'The Noble Spaniard' - in the villages

Both Shorne and Hartley Players decided to stage the same play.  Very positive review by Hartley reviewer RP "Quite frankly this charming show gave me an agreeable surprise. It was streets ahead of 'Laura' the last Hartley play I saw.....It will be a long time before I shall see such a happy piece of all round casting as was achieved at Hartley....Some of the Gravesend societies who have to play to sparse audiences would be green with envy at the near full house at the opening night at Hartley.  And I was told there were few seats unbooked for the other 2 nights."

03 Nov 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Slow pace of drainage work

Hartley Parish Council.  (1) Council dissatisfied with slow progress of mains drainage works.  In 6 weeks the Church Road works have only advanced 100 yards. Chairman Mr Ball asked why if they had a small team they had also started on Springcroft.  Mr Hitchin wondered why they had madea careful job reinstating Manor Lane but left dangerous potholes in Church Road.  (2) BR confirms closure of Longfield Station Goods Yard.  (3) PC dissatisfied with British Legion's maintenance of War Memorial so have decided to resume responsibility.

Hartley Country Club Dinner

120 attend 27th annual dinner (pictured)

10 Nov 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Goods yard as car park?

Longfield Parish Council Meeting.  (1) BR confirm closure of Longfield Station Goods Yard which is losing £1,000 per year and have reached an agreement with the coal merchants who use it.  Council to write to BR to suggest a car park there. (2) Post Office happy with proposed location of phone box in Hartley Road, even though PC pointed out it is only 300 yards from another one in Station Road.  (3) Pinden Dump.  Officials told council they will recommend only earth be dumped there.

17 Nov 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Progress

1st Hartley Guides has just added a 4th patrol (Robin)

Legion men respect anti-bingo rector - but sessions for charity will go on

The weekly bingo sessions at Longfield Village Hall into which between 250 and 300 fans pack themseles, are run by the local branch of the British Legion.  And when the ex-servicement paraded to Longfield Parish Church on Sunday for ht eannual Service of Remembrance they found that the anti-bingo Rector (the Rev Reginald Bavington) was billed to give a sermon on 'God's Gamblers'.

The Rector made it clear that there were two forms of gambling.  That motivated by the spirit which made men wager their lives in great causes could be encouraged.  But the gambling behind which was the God of Mammon should not.  When he was a lad he used to play a game called lotto, which later was called tombola, then housey-housey then then - the Rector spelt out the word - B.I.N.G.O.  'In my days of playing it we used to have clothes buttons and it was a game, he said.  'How many people do you think would go to the village hall each week if one only played with buttons?' he asked.  Later he said: 'In bingo you hear the expression, 'eyes down', I ask you to lift your eyes to the Cross.'  The kind of gambling he appreciated was that which made one bet one's life that Christ was the Son of God.  'What kind of gambler are you?' he wound up.  The Rector had based his sermon on The Acts 16 verse 26 - 'Men that have hazarded their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.'

After the service in teh church and across the road before the village war memorial, Mr Victor Phipps, the chairman of Longfield, Southlfeet and District British Legion Branch told a reporter that he was not embarrassed by the remarks about bingo in the Rector's address.  'We in the branch are well aware of the Rector's views on gambling and bingo and feel that he is perfectly entitled to have his own opinion,' said Mr Phipps.  'In fact I think we will respect him all the more for coming right out into the open as he did today and saying what h thought.  The Rector is a man's man and we get on well with him.'

The Rector's views on bingo which caused him to resign recently as chairman and a trustee of the village hall will, however, not affect the weekly sessions to which people from as far afield as Swanley come.  The hall is so crowded on some occasions that players sit on the floor.   'People may think the branch is making a lot of money out of bingo, but in fact we ae doing well if we make £5 a week out of it,' said Mr Phipps.  'That has to go to a proper charity to be within the law and we are able to help causes on a scale which we could never do without bingo.  Nowadays there is no other way of collecting case.  We have tried whist drives and not got far.  As it is we are able to pay for an outing for disabled chaps at the Star and Garter Home, send donations to Maurice House, the ex-servicemen's home at Westgate, and for 5 weeks the bingo profits are going to the Haig Fund.'  "

24 Nov 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Longfield Church Bazaar

Raises £50.  Includes picture: "He's Here!  Father Christmas paid a visit to Longfield Parish Church Bazaar held at Longfield School on Saturday."

Hartley Plan 'Likely to cause danger'

"The minister of housing has dismissed an appeal by the executors of Mrs A B D Welch and Mr F L M Smith, against the decision of Dartford RDC to refuse planning permission for the residential development of land off Old Downs Road, Hartley....."  Reasons were poor road access, inadequate sight lines, traffic problems. [Probably the land at the back of Dalesford and Holly Cottage, Castle Hill]

01 Dec 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

New Longfield School ready by 1963

"The planned completion date for the new Secondary school is the spring of 1963 with opening in September 1963 said Mr J Allen, Divisional Education officer at Monday's meeting of Thamesside Education Executive.  It would probably affect the two Swanscombe secondary schools particularly but alos Northfleet Secondary Schoo, where parents would probably have a choice of schools to which to send their children.  Some pupils it was anticipated, would be withdrawn from Northfleet school....."  Northfleet said to be oversubscribed.  Executive also has advert for tenders for school travel from 50 pupils and a few adults between Hartley, Longfield and New Barn and Gravesend Grammar School for Girls.

For Cancer Fund

"A pile of pennies was pushed over at the Railway Tavern, Longfield by Mr Norman Goff, headmaster of the village school, and his wife.  It raised £106 for Cancer Research."  [Same page has a picture of another pile of pennies from another pub being pushed over'

Old Folk Calm as home blazes

"The matron regretted that lunch was 15 minutes late on Wednesday.  The miracle was that there was anything to eat at all for the 46 elderly resident - their ages range from 78 to 99 - at KCC's home, Holywell, at Hodsoll Street, near Wrotham, that day.  Soon after breakfast fire had broken out in the top floor of one wing, destroying the flat of the matron [NAME] and her husband.  While firemen from 6 fire stations battled with roaring flames and smoke pouring from the roof, the staff and police officers worked to remove as much furniture as possible from teh bedrooms of 12 lady residents, the dining room and the lounge on the 2 floors below.  The fire was spotted soon after 9am by the assistant matron, [NAME] who is in her twenties.  As soon as she saw smoke from the matron's quarters she pressed the alarm bell.  The old people thought it was just another fire drill - regularly held in the home - and made their way calmly to the main lounge from the various rooms on the ground floor, where they were about to start another routine day.  But this time it was different.  While some of the staff fought the fire with extinguishers, others were going from room to room helping the crippled and making sure that no-one was left on the upper floors.  An elder lady in bed with a cold was helped downstairs.  All the staff had high praise for their charges, who behaved magnificently.

Meanwhile the tiny hamlet of Hodsoll Street, just outside the gates of the home, and unused to disaster, was mobilising.  Housewives dropped their chores and got the village hall, opened barely a year ago, ready to receive evacuees.  The heating was switched on, tea brewed and a passing baker, learing of the crisis, insisted on leaving a big bag of cakes.  About 20 residents moved in.  Some went by car.  Mrs Elizabeth Calvert, who will be 100 next September, was pushed the 200 yards in a wheelchair.

Meanwhile back at the home the remainder of the old folk sat in the lounge which was unaffected.  Round them the staff had piled hteir belongings - favourite slippers, magazines, a picture or two and on the table several cages of twittering pet birds....  Water dripped mournffully through the floors of the damaged wing and ran inches deep on the floors as the firemen stripped part of the roof to made sure that the fire was out.    Gold fish in the pond in the garden were making do with less water because the level was lowered by firemen desperate for water.  But life in the kitchen went on and the menu was served in the home and in the village hall: mutton stew and mash, prunes, dried apricots and custard.  'All the old people seem to have taken the blaze well,' said the matron to a reporter.  She herself had lot all her belongings in the fire.  'That is a mere detail,' she said stoically.  'The main thing is that the residents are all right.' "

Paper has pictures of Holywell Park and two of the evacuated residents in Hodsoll Street Village Hall.

08 Dec 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Obituary of William Clark

 // Of Brabourne, Fairby Lane, Hartley.  He was an engineer who for 30 years ran manufacturing business in Dartford with his brother.  His son will carry on the business.  Was also treasurer of Scout Group.

Gaoled for series of offences

[NAME], 23, a general dealer living in a caravan in the woods near Dartford was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment ....." for series of burglaries including Taylaws Car Breakers at Longfield and J & B Martin at Pinden.

22 Dec 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Changes in bus services

Due to changes in school transport, following buses to be withdrawn: Route 451 Gravesend to Hartley Court at 07.35; 490 Gravesend to Longfield at 07:46, Hartley Court to Gravesend at 08.16, and other journeys around Longfield.

Thursday Club

Hold Christmas party for 112 children in Hartley Parish Hall.

29 Dec 1961 KM (Maidstone Telegraph)

Hartley's Roads 'left uncleansed'

Hartley Parish Council meeting.  (1) Lack of street cleaning by KCC led Parish Council to request to join Dartford RDC's scheme. (2) Mains Drainage works stopped until spring so at least Church Road has reopened. (3) Street numbering, RDC agree with PC it is not necessary in Hartley.  (4) They support Fawkham PC's request to improve Castle Hill in interests of road safety but say Chruch Road had a prior claim.