Newspaper Stories 1945-1949 - Hartley-Kent: The Website for Hartley

(1) [NAME] of Rosary Cottage, Stack Lane - alleged desertion of wife Peggy; (2) Boundary Commission provisionally decides that all of Dartford Rural District should be in Chislehurst parliamentry constituency

Hartley to remain in Chislehurst Parliamentary Constituency

Wedding at Congregational Church of Roy Ralph Sizmur [1922-1993] of Ash Road and Kathleen Brookes [1919-1964] of Ash.  He works for J&E Halls at Dartford

(1) Merchant Navy Knitting party - report for 1944; (2) Naturalist Club at WI Hall - film show; (3) Wedding of Roy R Sizmur of Olinda, Ash Rd at Congregational Church; (4) Obituary of Mrs Gladys E Bignell of Colyton (funeral 20.1.45).

Pantomine for Red Cross at Country Club by Ash Youth Club

(1) Request for sweets to be sent to Country Club for childrens treats; (2) Obituary to Mrs Bignell (51) of Colyton

Obituary of Mrs Rosalie E Oldrey of The Limit, Ash Rd (80)

"For sale, 5 Stock cockerels, Rhode; 2 goats, 1st kidders; 1 incubator, 100 egg size; hot water system.  Morgan: Greycote, Manor Drive, Hartley, Longfield."

Entertainments for 140 children at Country Club

Garage Fire at Church Rd, building and car destroyed

"Among those whom the King has approved should be mentioned in recognition of gallant and distinguished services in Italy is Gunner C L Larkin [1920-2004], aged 24, only son of Mr and Mrs Larkin of Jessern, Ash Road, Hartley.

Before being called up for the Army at the age of 20, he worked for Mr Sharmoon at Trosley Towers, near Wrotham.  He has 2 sisters.

Gunner Larkin went to North Africa in November 1942, with the 1st Army and was in the Tunisian campaign.

Afterwards he was with the 5th Army landing at Salerno, on September 9th, 1943, when he was wounded in the left arm and left foot.

Mrs Larkin has received a letter from Lt LW Aldous, expressing his great appreciation of her son's behaviour on the morning of the Salerno landing.

'Through no fault of anyone's, it was unfortunately quite a time before we could do more for him other than first aid,' he writes, 'He never complained, and by remaining cheerful throughout did much to enable men to carry on with their work in a calm and normal manner.'"

[1729540 Gunner Charles Leslie Larkin (1920-2001) was part of the 80th Heavy AA Regiment, Royal Artillery.]

Home Guard Stand Down Dinner and Entertainment

"The clerk reported that LPTB and the Rural Council Transport Committee had arranged the extra stop asked for by the Parish Council in Ash Road above St John's Lane.  Mr Gates reported on the meeting concerning post-war housing recently held at Dartford, and said the meeting contributed no solution to the question of temporary accommodation, being mostly occupied by the views of contractors adn operatives on the superiority of good brick construction.  The council decided to hold a special meeting to discuss how the subject would affect Hartley."

(1) Obituary of Peter Newcombe of Rosyth, left Hartley 14 years ago; (2) Ratepayers Assn: discussed new war memorial, widening of roads etc

Oddfellows: meeting of 4625 lodge at Black Lion

35 attended Junior Naturalist Club, including 9 new members

Home Guard Dinner for No 3 (Hartley) platoon at Country Club

Country Club AGM; thanks to CM Ellerby for laying out sports ground (article includes list of events)

(1) WI social evening includes entertainment by WI Drama Group; (2) Longfield Young Farmers Club - "About 25 members visited Joyce Green Farm and watched machine milking.  Afterwards the senior members visited Mr Strickland's while the younger members went to the rhubarb sheds in Dartford.   The party was led by Mr F Barker, club leader."; (3) Hazel Chisholm of Restharrow fined 10 shillings for driving when licence had expired on 5.4.1944

"Mr and Mrs Hoadley, of Church Road, Hartley, have received a letter from Mr H Bain of Hurstville, New South Wales, stating that their son, Stoker D R Hoadley [1924-2011], was entertained by the Penshurst Sub-Branch of the Returned Sailors, Soldiers and Airmen's Imperial League of Australia at a convivial evening held on December 23rd last.  'As I write this Christmas Day,' states the letter, 'I know that your thoughts are of him, and we join with you in praying that he will be delivered safe and sound to you before Christmas 1945.  We of the 1914-1918 conflict remember the hospitality extended to us and we are determined to try and repay in some small measure that hospitality, and have therefore thrown one clubroom open to all members of the British services.  The writer carried very pleasant memories of the hospitality extended to him by the people of Dartford in late 1916 and early 1917 after leaving Lincoln, where he was a case for 17 weeks.  Your son is well and happy and asked me to send a note of love and remembrance to all.  I conclude with wishing you and all the folks of Dartford a very pleasant and peaceful new year.'  Stoker Hoadley, who is at present in New Zealand, was at one time a member of the Home Guard at Hartley and joined the Royal Navy over 2 years ago."

"Two NCOs of A Company, 19th Batt (Farningham) Kent Home Guard, have been awarded the certificate for good service.  They are CSM F Smith (Longfield) and CQMS John Sale, of Hartley."

"Social Evening: As the result of a very successful social evening held at the Women's Institute £11 7s 6d was raised for St Dunstan's.  After games and refreshments, the audience was entertained by members of the Women's Institute Drama Group and the Choir.  An amusing ballad version of 'Widdecomb Fair' with a modern flavour left spectators weak with laughter, especially at the antics of the grey mare played by [NAME] (hind part) and [NAME] (front half).  Two sketches 'Granny is 100' and 'Winter in Torquay' were much enjoyed, and the choir concluded with songs from 'The Maid in the Mountains'".

"Mr Charles Sizmur presided at the March meeting, when letters were read from Ash Parish Council regarding the proposed revision of omnibus services, and from Mrs Firman regarding the proposed lopping of her tree overhanging the highway.  Mrs Gates reported that at a further meeting of the post-war housing conference, sponsored by Dartford Trades Council, she had been appointed to a rural district committee which would suggest improvements to the rural area and submit a list to the Housing authority.  Captain Bignell pointed out that the chief needs of the district were more good houses, those already owned by the RDC having stood up to blast very well, but the present shortage of labour and material restricted any operations.  Mr Bishop complained of the furring of pipes and the hardness of the water, and it was agreed that the attention of the Mid Kent Water Company be drawn to this."

(1) "Hartley - for sale.  Plot of land, 100 feet x 200 feet on Gorsewood Road, woodland, also a plot on Gorse Way 120 feet by 200 feet, pasture; water and electricity to both sites; price £210 each plot - Coney, Hartley Bottom, Longfield."; (2) For sale: iron horse tractor, plough, cultivator etc, £168 - Free, Castle Hill; (3) "After 10 years as rector of Longfield, Canon Parker is to retire.  From 1912 to 1935, Canon Parker [b 1871] was headmaster of King's School, Rochester, and he and his daughter Miss Norah Parker [1897-1962], intend to live in Rochester after his retirement.  During the war he has taken an active part in Civil Defence duties in Longfield, while Miss Parker has been in charge of the first aid post at Kent House."

All Saints: 22 Confirmed

Three one act plays by WI Drama Group. List of those taking part (also in Reporter 31.3.45)

"Parish Meeting - on Wednesday last week, Mr Chas Sizmur, chairman of the Parish Council presided, and the clerk, Mr LU Judge, presented the council's report.  This included an account of efforts made to improve the bus service, reported on by Mr Passmore Bishop.  Mrs Gates reported on the Dartford meetings on housing she had attended as delegate from the council.  The future planning of Hartley and merits or demerits of council houses which would be rented on favourable terms was discussed, and the suggestion made that the council should survey the question.  The chairman said the council was now working on this and would report to a parish meeting in due course."

"News has been received by Mr and Mrs JR Stickland, the Old Downs, Hartley, that their thrid son Cpl Alfred Gordon Stickland, 20 (pictured), has been killed in action in Western Europe.

In March 1941, another son, George Norman Stickland, was killed in an air accident while serving in the RAF.

Educated at Haileybury College, Cpl Stickland joined the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment in September 1942, and was later transferred.  He went abroad in October last year, and was in the 51st Division.

His eldest brother, Capt John Charles Stickland MC RA served through the Malta campaign.

Mr and Mrs Stickland also have a girl and boy still at school." (also mentioned in Times 4.4.1945 and Reporter 14.4.1945)

[14405011 Corporal Stickland 1/7 Battalion, Middlesex Regiment died 24.3.1945 buried Reichswald Forest War Cemetery, Netherlands.  At the time his unit was involved in the battle to cross the Rhine]

"Mr Charles Sizmur presided at the monthly meeting on Wednesday last week.  The question of short distance passengers on the Gravesend - Hartley bus service was again discussed.  The clerk read a letter from the Gravesend engineer stating that trees were being lopped or removed from Darnley and Old Dover Road to  permit the use of double deck buses on local services.  This would relieve the pressure of local passengers on the country buses.  The owners of overhanging trees in the Hartley area have expressed their readiness to remove them with the council's assistance.  Mrs Gates reported on the recent meeting in Dartford of the post-war housing committee, which she attended as delegate, and Captain Bignell confirmed that the RDC had been allotted and secured sits for 150 temporary houses in Stone, Swanley and Horton Kirby (50 in each).  The question of permanent houses was deferred for the present.... Reply was received from the Mid Kent Water Company that no further steps could be taken to soften the water supplied to Hartley, and that this was no harder than was common to all chalky districts.  Arrangements were made for the repair and repainting of the council's notice boards on Hoselands Hill and Church Road."

(1) All Saints: organ fund for installation costs, donations to ST Carter of Rose Cottage, Church Rd; (2) Country Club Social with the Regal Orchestra; (3) Sgt John Sale of Broomfield, Ash Rd, returns from being POW

Sergeant John Sale returns home after being liberated by Americans from POW camp

Dr Barnardos house-to-house collection raises £8

Rabbit Club: 1st AGM (Mrs Gates chm; Mrs Withers, sec)

"Full size Iron Bedstead with spring and wool mattress - Apply Costen, Homestead [Tor Lodge, Church Road], Hartley, Dartford."

question of Hartley School

Caught napping: Hartley, near Gravesend, arranged a meeting for Wednesday night to plan its VE Day celebrations!" (in other words a day after VE Day!)

(1) VE Day celebrations; All Saints Thanksgiving Service (also 19.5.45); (2) Hartley Agricultural Soc - letter from Dr Frederick D Welch of Dalesford

Rabbits and hatching eggs for sale - Townley, Hartley Cottage, Hartley Green

First show of Hartley Rabbit Club, list of winners - Mrs R Balchin, Mrs Pentland, Mrs Townley, Jean Gay, Mrs Alexander, Michael Gay, Mrs Hollands.  Reporter 26.5.1945 -  special prize for Mr Alexander of Cavan

"Ebenezer Chapel, Ash was filled with relatives and friends on Tuesday to pay a last tribute to Mrs Day, widow of Mr George Day, who after a service conducted by Rev JD Vigo waw buried there beside her husband.

Mrs Day, who died on Friday, aged 73, was much loved throughout the village, where she took an active part in social life until she was obliged to relinquish her activities during her husband's illness.

The late Mr Day was a magistrate and county councillor, and one of the most prominent men in the public life of the district.

Mr and Mrs Day celebrated their golden wedding in 1941.

Over 50 years ago Mrs Day came as a bride to North Ash Manor, and when, 6 months ago, the manor was sold, whe went to live in a small house in Church Road, Hartley.

Among the flowers at the funeral was a bunch of roses from the old manor garden, sent by the present owners, Dr and Mrs Cressall." (list of mourners and picture of Mrs Day)

"About 125 children were entertained at a Victory party in the Country Club Hall, which was decorated with red, white and blue flowers.  The tea committee, comprising Mrs McKenzie [b 1907], Mrs Shambrook [1879-1972] and Mrs Phillips were assisted by Mrs Hooper [1869-1959], Mrs Johnes, Miss Ling [1882-1966], Mrs Sizmur, Mrs [1889-1964] and Miss Townley [1918-1991] and Mrs Withers [??-1965].  Mr C Sizmur chairman of the parish counicl and the Rev JW Henderson spoke, and Mrs Gates and Mr Withers organised games.  There was a punch and judy show and ventriloquial and conjouring entertainment.  Before the children went home they had ice cream and lemonade served in bakelite picnic cups which they took away as souvenirs."

"Hodsoll Street and Ridley held their victory celebrations on Saturday, the chief attaction being a fancy dress parade.  Mr John Bolster brought out his early Edwardian motor car, and the occupants were in period costume.  Mr Bert Graham produced a Victorian chaise, which was occupied by two ladies dressed in early Victorian style.  There was also a penny farthing bicycle.  Nursery Rhymes such as 'Mary had a little lamb', 'The old woman who lived in a shoe', 'Little boy blue', and others were portrayed.  There were many original and picturesque costumes.  Led by [NAME] as Drum Major, the Culverstone band led the procession through Hodsoll Street and back to the meadow, where sports were held.  Mrs Short of Meopham and Mrs Meager of Ash, were the judges and distributed the prizes.  Mrs Claud Goddard of Holywell Park, gave prizes to unsuccessful entrants.  After the sports, tea was served and later there was dancing on the green, Culverstone Band providing the music."

(1) "Home Again: Prisoners of War, Jim Young and George Ripley, both of North Ash, have arrived home."; (2) "Seaside Once More - Members of the [Ash] Social Club and friends spent an enjoyable day at Hastings on Monday."

(1) Children's VE Party at Country Club (see article); (2) Hartley Players revived

Daschunds for sale 10 guineas - Brickend, Longfield 2146.

"On Wednesday last week, it was reported that the gun pits on Hartley Green will be filled in as soon as labour or volunteers are available.  It was also reported that the relighting by the Southern Railway of the steps at the Ash Road end of the Fawkham Station path was under consideration.  The chairman, Mr C Sizmur, reported on the success of the children's victory party, and it was resolved to send letters of thanks to Mrs McKenzie (WVS), Mrs Phillips (WI) and Mrs Shambrook (Congregational Women's Guild) for their help.  Mrs Gates reported complaints of the collection of the 2.30 post at Hartley PO before the advertised time and the clerk was instructed to write to the Postmaster of Dartford.  Mr Bishop wrote requesting the council to take up with the Food Office the refusal of rations for the children's VE Party, in view of press reports that special rations would be granted for celebrations arranged by public authorities.  He said it was not fair that individuals should give up their own scanty rations, as had been done in Hartley."

Capt C S Bignell of Colyton awarded MBE for Civil Defence work (also Reporter 23.6.45)

"Four young men were concerned in a daring daylight robbery at The Gables, Hartley, near Gravesend, the residence of Mrs Newcomb, a widow who is deaf and lives with her two daughters.

The thieves stole a sum of money, and a quantity lof valuable articles, including jewelry, a cigarette lighter, and a wallet of stamps etc.

Mrs Newcomb, who was in th ehouse by herself at the time, answered the back door to two men who requested a drink of water.

While these two men engaged Mrs Newcomb in conversation over their drink of water, two confederates - who had entered the house by the garden door - raided the bedrooms and study.

To make sure the two men she had been talking to found their way to the public footpath, Mrs Newcomb courteously escorted them to the garden gate, where the other two men were waiting.

The four men cordially thanked and said goodbye to Mrs Newcomb, who was not aware of the theft until some time later." (also in Chronicle 29.6.45 and Reporter 30.6.45)

(1) Burglary at The Gables, home of Mrs Newcomb; (2) Nigel Fisher, Conservative candidate to speak at Country Club

Marriage of John Lyndock Moncrieff Crofton [1911-1995] to Rosemary Jean Briggs of Tenbury Wells

(1) Hartley Coop Soc - committee turned out in poll; (2) Bishop of Rochester to visit to baptise Rev Henderson's son

(1) Local buses to run an hour later; (2) Summary of war from civil defence viewpoint in Dartford RDC; (3) Engagement of John L Moncrieff, son of Mr & Mrs Crofton of Spinney Corner

Election - large audience for Conservative candidate at Country Club

"'It is difficult to think of a more despicable thing than to steal from the house of an old lady of 80 years,' said Mrs M Ling (presiding) at Dartford on Friday, to 3 youths who appeared on a theft charge.

The accused, all of whome came from Rotherhithe were Frederick Donald Chapman [1927-2001], 17, [NAME] 18 and a lad of 16.

All pleaded guilty to stealing articles and cash to the value of £106 10s 10d.

Evidence was given that Mrs Newcombe, aged 80, was alone at The Gables, Hoselands Hill, Hartley on June 20th, when one fo the accused knocked at the door and asked for a drink.  Mrs Newcombe later went from the house to direct the accused on the way to London, and he was met by two other youths.

It was alleged that these 2 youths gained access to Mrs Newcombe's house through a spare room window while the other accused had asked for water.

Det Cons W Bone said he was in Parrock Road, Gravesend, when he saw the accused at the front door of an unoccupied house.  As a result of his interview, they were later charged.

The 16 year old lad was remanded until the next juvenile court, and the two others were remanded for 21 days to appear at the next London Sessions.

Det Cons Bone was commended by the Magistrates."

"It was agreed on Wednesday last week to write to Capt CS Bignell congratulating him on the award of the MBE, it being the opinion of members that this was most worthily deserved.  It was reported that no reply had been received from the Food Officer to the council's request to purchase rationed foods so that residents might be reimbursed with the rations they gave for the children's victory tea.  A further letter is to be sent asking on what authority the Food Officer declines to issue permits, as it is understood such permits are authorised by the Ministry of Food.  It was reported that £24 6s 8d had been spent on the VE Day Fete, leaving £36 13s 4d to be refunded to the rating authority out the grant of £61.  The postmaster wrote stating that the time of collection of letters from Hartley Post Office had been deferred from 2.30 to 2.40pm.  Members noted with pleasure the improved bus services."

Goat for sale - Glenholm, Ash Road.  Longfield 3161

Marriage at All Saints' Hartley of Captain Basil Northen RE [1916-1994] of Rutland to Junior Commander Mollie Elizabeth Townley [1923-2016] of Hartley Cottage, where reception for 40 was held.

"The roof of a dilapidated stone cottage at Hartley, Gravesend, in which Daniel Defoe is believed to have written 'Robinson Crusoe' has fallen in.  Villagers want the cottage to be restored and a plaque placed on it."

[This is very unlikely to be Defoes Cottage, as it was probably built in the early c19th]

"Lieutenant Leonard John Michael Burns [1920-1999], 25, of the Wiltshire regiment, stationed at Wrotham pre-OCTU training camp, Kent, was remanded at Northfleet yesterday, charged with shooting [NAME] of Manor Drive, Hartley near Gravesend in the foot.  It was stated that Burns was talking to friends, including [NAME], in an inn when he told them he was in trouble, pulled out a revolver and fired it."

F Winter of Longfield racing owner/trainer?

For Sale: modern bungalow (2b, 2r,bath,kitchen,200' gdn) £950

Film of local farms shown at Dartford NFU

(1) Dartford RDC oppose Meopham new town, preferring for Hartley, Longfield at Kingsdown to be developed as larger villages; (2) 423 bus to have improved peak hours service, Sunday am buses restored

Fawkham: building scheme for Church Field by Sir Thomas Hohler rejected by RDC, because of ample land for development at Hartley

KCC elections: GE Leavey (ind) wins Dartford Rural E; Hartley ballot; box had to be rescued from snow drift at Kingsdown

(1) Percival L Harris [1900-1983], summoned by wife Mary [prob 1896-1968] of Stack Rd for desertion; (2) Longfield Young Farmers: Vera Glover (chm); cttee incl Kenneth Glover

"A child aged 2 years 8 months, John Alistair McDonald was found dead on a live raid on the Southern Railway line north of Fawkham Station, near Gravesend, Kent.  John had been missing from his home at Hartley Old Rectory, Longfield, only 20 minutes."  (Reporter 29.3.46 mentions inquest)

Parish Council election results: James Grieve [1882-1968] tops poll with 166 votes

Obituary of Sir Thomas Hohler of Fawkham Manor

Hartley Players: "Children to Bless You"

Robert R Wilson [1898-1971] cleared of building Claremont, Church Rd too big

(1) Planning appeal by LJ Griffin [1914-2000] of Maxwelton, Church Rd against Dartford RDC's refusal to allow him to build on his plot at Gorsewood Rd.  Reporter 30.8.1946 reported that the appeal had been allowed; (2) Paper renamed "Dartford and Crayford Chronicle"

Murder of Sheila Martin (11) at Stony Field Wood, Fawkham (cont'd 19/7 and 16/8)

"Bus with 30 land girls aboard, crashed through a shop wall at Longfield, Kent, yesterday, when avoiding a cyclist, and pulled up at the counter.  Nobody hurt."

William J Gillman [1886-1962] in arrears of maintenance for wife Evelyn [1880-1968] of Acacia Gorse Way

"Pickers, here at work near Longfield, are paid 4 shillings for a 40lb bag.  A family of 8 recently earned £86 in another part of the county" (picture of the pickers at work in Longfield on Brickfield opposite approximately 225 Main Road)

(1) Boundary Commission reccomends Dartford RDC should be in Dartford Const; (2) Ronald Rich [1920-2009] of Longfield - illegally sold roller loaned by Hubert Gladish [1890-1966] of Church Rd; (3) Prize winning spaniel of Mrs Dorracott [prob 1909-1980]: "Philemon of Thatchend"

(1) All Saints/Congr Ch/Social Centre fete at Hartley Manor, rain; (2) Minor Changes to timetables of 423 and 490a

All Saints': dedication of organ; harvest festival

Parish Council: complaints about postal service and derilict orchards

"Motor Car Racing at Brands Hatch?" (motorcycle circuit then) 15.11.46

Mr Dallen is selling furniture

Parish Magazine to be revived

Walter E Busby [prob 1897-1970], Chelsham Church Rd: inefficient brakes

(1) Hartley Players "Charity begins...." a triumph; (2) All Saints: sale of work at WI hall raises £100

(1) Hubert W Gladdish of Stocks Farm, fined £24 for taking car; (2) Case against 15 year old girl for brawling in bus queue dismissed

Homefield, Ash Road/Stack Lane advertised for sale

MP for Chislehurst, G D Wallace [1906-2003] addresses constituents in Hartley

(1) Compulsory Purchase notice for land in Merton Avenue; (2) Youth club AGM - membership up from 21 to 38; (3) Marriage of Pamela Symons [b 1920] of Fairby Lane in India; (4) For sale: building plots in Ash Rd

(1) Parish council complains of RDC's plans for council house allocation; (2) WI - 26th birthday, details; (3) Marriage of Dorothy Talbot [1920-2000] of The Winnatts, Manor Drive to Dr J L Jenman [1923-2007] of Elizabeth Cottage, Gorse Way

(1) Opening of Childrens' Clinic at WI Hall, weds 2-4; (2) Womens Conservative Meeting attended by 40 despite atrocious weather; (3) Social Centre: lecture on leoprosy in Africa; (4) Adult Education lecture: Post War Czechlosovakia

(1) Country Club AGM - retirement of CS Bignell as Hon Secretary; (2) Marriage of Dr Elizabeth Jenman [b 1919] of Elizabeth Cottage, Gorse Way; (3) Dartford RDC - tributes to CS Bignell on his retirement

(1) Rabbit club to be wound up; (2) WI Drama Group, 3 one act plays features first male actor

For Sale: 3 bed house, 5acres, 300 fruit trees - £3,400 freehold

Conservative fete at Hartley Manor to be opened by Miss Hornsby-Smith [1914-1985]

Country Club - application for widening of food licence refused

(1) Fairby High School: accident to [NAME]; (2) Social Centre Concert: features BBC accompanyist [NAME]

(1) Social Centre: concert featuring Eve Maxwell-Lyte [1908-1955], singer [She was best known for folk songs and shortly before her appearance in Hartley had appeared on television.  She was also a descendant of the Rev Lyte who wrote the hymn 'Abide with Me'.  An example of her singing is on YouTube]; (2) Country Club: 21st anniversary event on 10th May

"New 4ft wardrobe trunk £10; American Trunk £5; Large Feather Fan £5; lovely complete CP Fit up £30.  Bassano, Hartley, Dartford"

(1) Hartley Players: "Ladies in Retirement" (details - 31.5.47); (2) Ratepayers Assn: SW Willsmore [1903-1971] of Copthorne, Ash Rd to be chairman; (3) Buses: additional Gravesend-Ash bus at 4.09 for children considered

Advert for auction of Hartley manor Farm

(1) [NAME] of Elderberry Cott, Gorse Way - speeding charge; (2) Social Centre, application to serve refreshments refused

(1) Conservative Fete: details and picture; (2) Whit Sunday. at All Saints' and Congregational Church; (3) Changes to routes 423, 489, 490/490A

Reporter Outing presided over by managing editor, Mr A Witt [1886-1961] of Fairby Lane]

(1) New pews at Hartley Church; (2) RC School: Stage show at Country Club; producer: Sister Camillus

Mrs Willmott of Highlands: application for catering licence refused.  Reporter 20.9.47 - appeal dismissed

(1) Rectory Fete raises £129: details; (2) Mrs Willmott of Highlands: application for catering licence refused

(1) Marriage of Sheila F Witt [1919-1991] of Treetops (picture); (2) Sunday School outing to Sheerness

Thomas Graham [b 1911] of Fairby Lane - vehicle owned not in servicable condition

Sale of Hartley Manor Farm House by order of David Bune; 4 bed, 3 recept, 1 bath 2 acres

(1) Obituary of W Richards of Ash Rd (68); (2) Social Club Dance (with Alan Argent's Band); Country Club Tennis Dance (with Happy Days Band)

Social Centre: 12 talks on Musical Appreciation at Amphion

(1) Hartley Youth Club Dance; Local MP at Social Club; (2) [NAME] of Black Lion - speeding

Dance to celebrate 100th member of Young Conservatives

Social Centre: Bromley Baptist Church Choir; Country Club: amateur boxing tournament

St Lukes-tide Music and Arts festival at Hartley and Fawkham Churches includes choir concerts at both churches, art exhibition at WI Hall

Social Club: advert for dance with Jack Cosgrove's Band

Hartley Players: autumn show cancelled due to lack of male players

(1) Percy W Dennis [1894-1962] of Clifton, Ash Road - speeding; (2) Motorcycle Accident on Hoselands Hill

Obituary of Charles Humphrey (86)

Boundary Commission: Hartley to be part of Orpington constituency

WI Play at Country Club: Wedding Eve Melodrama, details

(1) All Saints: big increase in Christmas Communicants; details of festival of 9 Lessons and Carols; (2) Church Rd: fire at house due to faulty wiring

(1) Wedding and picture of [NAME] of The Gables [Ash Road]; (2) Babies Clinic - Christmas party

Sunday School Play, includes list of performers

Social Centre - talk by Elise Sprott "London Calls the world"

Women Conservatives AGM - 257 members, president Mrs Hohler

(1) Social Centre: film called "Iron Duke"; (2) Country Club: famous flautist John Amadio performs; (3) Social Club Dance with Alan Argent's Dance Band

(1) Wedding of Vera Rose Willis of Fairby Cottages; snowy day; (2) Congregational Church: 40 attend social event in hall; (3) Social Centre: talk on South Africa

Arts Council Concert at Country Club: John Amadio on flute

Parish council: plans for local entrant to "Miss Dartford"; Reporter 7.8.48  No Hartley entrant in "Miss Dartford"

Probate notice of John George Baxter formerly of Hoselands Hill, but lately of Gravesend

Messrs Winnett - for sale: 200' deep plots on unmade road: £2 per ft

Dances at Social Club (Bill Colemans Band) & Country club (silver star band); (2) Social Centre Play "Down on the Farm" at WI hall; (3) All Saints -Stainer's Crucifixion by Hartley & Fawkham choirs; (4) Naturalist Club - talk by League against cruel sports

Obituary of John T Warren of hartley Manor Farm (62)

Hartley Players: production cancelled due to illness; All Saints - Church packed for Easter Sunday service

St Joseph's School: fire destroys shed

Marriage of Ella Reeves of Sherard, Gorse Way; "Comedy at Hartley" - description of WI's 3 one act plays

Total of 562 articles of clothing for Rev Henderson's Clothes for Europe appeal

(1) Wedding of Eileen Cheary [prob 1926-2013] of 2 Darenth Cottages; (2) Youth Club Dance in Social Club Hall (Alan Argent's Band)

Dr Barnados collection raises £10; United Nations Appeal £9

Probate notice for claims on estate of Lucy Smith of Oakdene

(1) NSPCC collection raises £19; (2) Mothers Union "Wave of Prayer" at All Saints 4-6pm, 5th June

Discussions re: merger of Dartford BC and Dartford RDC

(1) Suspected unexploded AA shell found at Southdown, Hartley Bottom; (2) All Saints - 17 confirmation candidates (see also 19.6.48); (3) Young Conservatives AGM attended by 40, chairman: MA Metcalfe [1911-2004]

(1) Children sent to Fawkham School by taxi after unsolved murder at Fawkham Green; (2) Dancing display by pupils of [NAME]; (3) Tragic death on Lesley Ann Hart (5) of Lal-Bagh, Church Rd, electrocuted on railway

Congregational Church wedding of [NAMES] of Longfield

Youth Club easily win local sports tournament at Wombwell Hall

(1) Rectory Fete raises £120 - details; (2) [NAME] of Friezland, Gorse Way - careless driving

New Barn man fined for shooting dog of [NAME] of Gorsewood Road

Improvements to 423, 489a and 490 routes

(1) Accident to driver with Hartley water Company; (2) Local Arts Council concerts features Canadian soprano, Ann Watt

(1) [NAME] (24) of Hill view, Hartley Bottom-injured in road accident: (2) Hartley Players to perform "Fresh Fields" by Ivor Novello

(1) Hartley Arts Circle: exhibition of work at WI Hall; (2) Social Club Dance (Alan Argent's Band); (3) All Saints' Harvest Festival

(1) CJ Gadd [1893-1969] of Monksilver, Ash Road, appointed Keeper of Egyptian & Assyrian Antiquities at British Museum; (2) All Saints: choir performs Cantata "Daughter of Moab"; (3) Conservative Club farewell to Pat Hornsby-Smith (picture); (4) Compulsory purchase order for land at Haverstock Drive & Silverdale

(1) 5 building licences granted for work at Hartley; (2) All Saints: many requests for repeat of Cantata

Hartley Cricketer Weds ([NAME] of New Barn)

"Final Song, Town Hall, Wednesday, November 10, 1948, Proeeds: FOOD FOR BRITAIN.  Admission free, but you can reserve a seat for 1s at Begg's on Friday, November 5.

A great programme for a great cause is being arranged.  Famous trio in charge - Demmy, Himmy, Alfie.

Extract from a letter: 'Bay Lodge, Hartley, Dartford, June 8, 1948.  I am a widow of a New Zealander who came to fight.  He hoped to return to God's Own Country, but passed away before that could happen.  I received today your lovely parcel, and am truly thankful for your extremely lovingkindness to the people of England.  We all think you are wonderful.  Yours very sincerely, Emmeline Waite."

[People from the Commonwealth were enormously generous in sending food parcels to Britain at this time]

(1) Ash Road: complaints of speeding traffic; (2) BR refusing to fence railway (see 3.7.48); (3) Lecture by Dr Geoffrey Bush on "Henry Purcell" at Amphion [Avalon], Ash Road; (4) Article by "AEE" - 'So This is Hartley'

(1) Obituary of William S Day of 5 Ash Rd (road accident); (2) Country Club - 250 attend members night (Majestic Stars from Gravesend and Silver Star Band)

(1) Bankruptcy of Robert R Burnsten-Wilson of Claremont Church Rd, trading as Beehive Building Company (see also 25.12.48); (2) Fairby Grange - concern over fate in NHS reforms

(1) Obituary of Robert Shorter (93) of Ambleside, Ash Rd; (2) Badminton Club Dance (Skyliners Dance Band)

(1) Obituary of Hedley Symons of Fairby Lane; (2) Cricket Club AGM attended by Les Ames (President A Witt)

(1) "Teas and Morning Coffees at Last" at Hartley Post Office; (2) Sermon by Rev W T Jones of CMS at All Saints; (3) Messrs Winnetts: double fronted brick built modern shop: £3,000

(1) All Saints: 9 Lessons and Carols; readers include F Tate; (2) Convent School Concert at Country Club: list of performers; (3) Three Plays performed by WI - details; (4) Youth Club Dance (Alan Argent's Dance Band)

"English Advertiser requires top class dogs only.  Distance 460 to 700 yards.  Communications to W O'Riordan (Licensed NGRC Trainer), Clifton Kennels, Hartley, Dartford, Kent, England.  Phone Longfield 3232"

[Clifton Kennels was where Green Way is today]

Social Centre & Naturalists Clubs parties

(1) Wedding of Gladys May Dennis [b 1907] of The Elms, Ash Rd; (2) Childrens' Party attended by 140

Sunday School visit to Chatham Theatre

Peggy Sylvester Pratt [b 1923] of Downs View, married at Dartford Reg Office

Marriage of [NAME] of Elderberry Cottage, Gorse Way to Alan Alexander (b 1919) of Cavan, Church Rd

Choral Society: inaugural performance at WI Hall

Tenders invited by Dartford RDC to build 26 houses at Ash Rd

Social Centre: lecture and film "Young Mr Pitt"

Dances at Hockey Club and Social Club

Thomas Stevens of Downs View (56) injured working on a farm

Young Conservatives Play "While the Sun Shines " big success

Dartford BC proposes taking over rural dist except Southfleet

Break in at Messrs Pilley & Talbot, The Parade, Ash Rd

Miss Mary Edmunds [d 2009] in going to India with CMS

[Her obituary says she grew up in Meopham and went to Gravesend Girls Grammar, and worked as a teacher at St Thomas Girls School at Basharwa, where she also ran the school hostel from 1948 to 1979, when she returned to look after her mother]

Bungalows for sale at £2,950 and £4,200

Frank Woodall [b 1926] of Ash Rd - case of not stopping at traffic lights

WI - Jane Austen Talk in costume by [NAME]

Apathetic Ratepayers - only 4 attend parish meeting

Hartley Players "Lady from Edinburgh". (picture ,& report 16.4.49)

Letter from [NAME] bemoaning lack of young cricketers coming forward in spite of excellent facilities at Country Club

Gorsewood Rd - minister overrules RDC and allows development

All Saints - 43 people enrolled into Girls Friendly Society

Kcc election, Dartford Rural East won by F Goodwin (C) with 2,377 votes, a 1,400 majority over socialist candidate

All Saints - Stainer's Crucifixion by choir of Hartley and Fawkham

Dr Barnados raises £9.12s

"Family notice - Edwards - killed in action on April 26, 1945 over Fedje Fjord, Norway, F/O William John Edwards, RAAF, aged 25 years, only son of Mrs S T Edwards, husband of Jean MS Edwards, of Longfield, Kent, England and father of Christine.  To his dear memory."

Vestry Meeting: FE Todd & WR Solly reelected churchwardens

Longfield & Hartley Labour Party AGM attended by only 20

When War Came to Hartley by AE Edward (about battle of 1554)

Marriages of Elizabeth R Appleton of The Stoep; Margaret & Frederick Graham (to live at Forge Cott); May M Sizmur

Obituary of Henry W Fielder, postmaster 1930-47

Auction of lorry and 300 other lots of T Graham & Co of Fairby Lane

(1) WVS offers transport to local hospitals; (2) Marriage of Constance A Greenaway of 1 The Parade (picture)

(1) Buses: improved connections at Fawkham Station on 489/490/490A; (2) Gravesend & Dist Building trades Assn meeting - local members successful in tenders for Dartford RDC at Hartley

Compulsory Purchase notice for land for passing places at St Johns Lane

(1) Gerald Edwards of Ash Rd recovering in hospital after accident; (2) Break in at Hartley Cooperative Stores, cigarettes etc stolen

Hartley Water Committee: notice of intention to sink new borehole

"Siamese Kittens by Champion Slades cross Shahid ex Safphire Belle, 5 and 6 guineas.  Payne, ST Adwen, Hartley, Near Dartford, Kent.  Phone Longfield 2117

(1) Hartley Women Conservatives 25th anniversary; 280+ members; (2) Dartford RDC - 26 houses at Hartley to cost £29,722 [Hoselands View, Wellfield, Larksfield]; (3) Rectory Garden fete - detail

(1) Obituary of JR Stickland (61) - 25 years resident at Old Downs; (2) Social Centre Garden Party - details

"Housewives in the winding, old world village of Hartley (Kent), population 568, thoroughly enjoy an evening stroll in the lightless streets by moonlight.  If ever it was decided to bring the place up to date with street lighting it wouldn't be nearly the same, they say.  They like to see their neighbour's windows lit up.

'We like it that way.  It makes the place look bright and cheerful' say 80 members of the local Women's Institute.

'It would be a shame if Hartley nights were spoiled by street lights.  So towny...'  Mrs Irene Wall [1913-1958] of Church Road, told the Daily Mirror yesterday, 'There are no streetlights anywhere in the village, but we don't want any.  There are no pavements so we have no kerbs to trip over.  Most of us carry torches in our bags on dark nights.'  What about the children? Say their mothers, 'Bus stop near our houses.  They are safe enough'."

Is Hartley's Rural Charm Doomed? (C Lynton-Harris)

Womens' Conservative Association - 120 visit Chartwell

(1) Mothers Union - 23 in trip to Canterbury; (2) 6 acres of corn destroyed by fire at Hartley Manor Farm (& 20.8.49)

(1) Graham Willmott (50) of Ash Rd - caused obstruction with; (2) Auction sale of 350 lots of furniture etc from Old Downs

Sunday School outing to Herne Bay

Obituary of Kezia Richard (71) of Black Lion Cottages

(1) Gorsewood Road - application by A Hitchcock for caravan site; (2) Father P C Scally to be new RC priest

(1) Parish Council prefers names Wellfield, Larksfield; (2) All Saints - CMS collection raises £16.12.4

"Lofts and Warner - Never Before on the Market.  By Direction of G Hohler esq.  Kent on the Downs.  Adjoining Fawkham Station and the Village of Longfield.

The important Freehold agricultural property - The Fawkham Manor Estate.  Comprising Fawkham Manor, with 14 principal and secondary bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, suite of reception rooms, good offices.  Main electricity and water, central heating, garage, stabling, 3 lodges.  Magnificently timbered gardens.

Five dairy and mixed farms, being: Hill Barn Farm, Scudders Farm, Churchdown Farm, West York (sic) Farm and Pennis Farm.  All with farm houses and buildings.  Two secondary residences.  Numerous other cottages and small holdings and market gardens.  250 acres valuable woodlands and plantations.  In all about 1,000 acres.  Much with vacant possession.

Lofts and Warner will offfer the above by auction in suitable lots on 27 September next at the Bull Hotel, Dartford if not previously sold...."

RAF "Gagbusters" perform at Social Club

(1) Protest meeting against Hartley, Longfield, New Barn becoming an overspill town of 5,000 from Dartford. (letter 8.10.49); (2) New Labour Parliamentary Candidate at Institute Hall; (3) All Saints crowded for Harvest Festival

Social Centre Symposium "Hartley Early Days" by older residents

Sale of 8 bed house & 8 acres by Coney for £10,500

English Jersey Cattle Society Autumn Show has picture of Fawkham Cherry 2nd, born Feb 1945 by Fawkham Emperor out of Buckhurst Cherry, shown by Houlding Brothers.  Sold for 460 guineas, top price on 1st day.

(1) Record pear and apple crop at Hartley; (2) Charles Appleton made fellow of Royal Geographical Society; (3) Arts Society concert at Congregational Hall: Madeline Phol pianist etc; (4) Youth Club Dance (len Russell's Band)

Poodle pups for sale from 10 gns, by Arnold