kyn - sheerness
my dad went to woodlands boys school in gillingham. he is now 51. his name is ronald higgins and would like to hear from anyone who was there with him!
Thu Dec 15 20:45:32 2005

Beverly, living in France
My husband and I are planning to visit N.Z. next year, Can anybody tell me where Lord of the Rings was filmed? We thought the scenery was spectacular and we would like to see it for ourselves. Also we are very interested in a house swap. Can anyone help with the best route to take in this area? Your help would be very much appreciated.
Mon Oct 31 09:40:08 2005

John atherton, Canada
I found the web site by accident. I was looking for pictures of the Jezreels Tower, but unfortunately was unsuccessful. I was born in Featherby Road Gillingham and went to Twydall Lane school, from there I went for one term only, to Woodlands Road School in 1951. I remember about a third of the class being wiped out by a bus driver mowing down a group of sea cadets in Dock Road.I then went to a boarding school in Ipswich.When school was over I went in the Dockyard as an apprentice engine fitter.After the Dockyard I worked for General Electric and also out at Kingsnorth power station. Finishing up at The Steel Mill in Sheerness before transferring in 1979 to the main plant near Toronto Canada. My wife Sheila nee Dench, lived on the corner of Cornwallis ave, and Woodlands road and went to the school there from 1951 to 1955. your website brought back many happy memories of Gillingham. I am able to answer a couple of questions that have been asked. To Paul in Gillingham who asked about a band in the 1960's that had an Indian singer. There were two groups that I know of. The most successful was Alan Bannister and the Beacons(practiced in the Beacon Court Pub in Canterbury Steet). The other singer was Keith Mitten, but cannot remember the name of his band. To Tony in Cheshire and to Janet Bell asking if anyone remembered Tony Bell. There were two of these also that I can remember. One lived down Canterbury St. and his parents ran the glass and mirror shop. Tony(dinger) was killed on his Triumph motorbike about 1960. He was also serving his apprenticeship in the Yard. We were in the same class when attending Dockyard College. The other Tony Bell was a friend of Ray Baker who lived in Cornwallis ave about 1956. I would like help in finding an old friend. Kenneth Alan Nevell, he was originally from 30 Ferguson Ave. in Gravesend. He served his apprenticeship with me and then moved to Lonsdale Drive in Rainham. From there he went to somewhere in London and then on to either Australia or New Zealand.I know he had a sister Angela in Gravesend but I have no idea of her married name. If anyone knows what happened to Ken please let me know. To Stacy in Maidstone, who asked about how the schools in Toronto compared to those in England, You need have no worries on this font as long as you do not live too close to Downtown Toronto. there are so many mixed nationalities that not all can speak English very well. You would be far better living in commuter distance of the City, Housing is much cheaper than in England and you get a whole lot more for the money that you do spend.My wifes neice, who lives in London, has a daughter who is attending McMaster university in Hamilton, about 60 miles from Toronto, as she could get better opportunities there than she could in or around London. Keep the website going, I will read it often, John

Hi John, We have had an email from Ken Nevell who is keen to get in contact with you. Please can you email us at [email protected] and we'll put you in touch. Cheers, Hamish. BBC Kent
Mon Oct 31 01:40:33 2005

Roger N.S.W. OZ
Many thanks to Rosemary for information on the new bridge over the Swale, but once again Mike somewhere in Brazil has saved the day and given me all the right information and gave me a web site to contact so if anybody is interrested here it is http://www.highways.gov/uk/roads/projects/a road/a249/iwade queenborough/index.htm I know it is long but it is worth it if you want to know how this bridge is being built. Thank you mike and nice to hear from you ,look after yourself Roger in OZ
Tue Oct 25 21:51:43 2005

Rosemary, Rainham.
TO Roger in NSW. The new bridge linking Sheppey with the mainland is being erected to the west of the Kingsferry bridge. So far as I'm aware the existing bridge will remain as of course the railway will continue to use it. The A249 to the island will then be dual carriageway for virtually all of its length. Not too sure where the 'new' road will terminate but believe it to be roughly between Cowsted Corner and Queenborough Corner. Perhaps someone else reading this could confirm that?
Mon Oct 24 14:09:57 2005

Roger N.S.W. OZ
Could someone tell me were the new bridge that is spanning the Swale in kent is being built ? is it takeing the place of Kingsferry Bridge or is it going to form a dual carriageway to ease the traffic on Kingsferry Bridge . Or is it to be located at the old Harty ferry site .I am interrested to know. Roger
Mon Oct 24 04:39:51 2005

Harry, Scotland
What memories, I lived in Chatham High St in the 40's and 50's, and remember so well those places you all mention...the rag store..(went there many times with old wooleys),- the Piggeries yes I liked their horlicks,- My dad went to school with Peter Hudson,- Grafton place in Gillingham is indeed flattened, gone completely, sorry didnt know those families, .. knew a Pullan though. _ I remember watching the stone mason carving the headstones at Fowles monumental masons nextdoor to the Brook garage.(all gone now). and Bournes the bakers horse and carts lined up in the high st in the mornings?- My grandad had a greengrocers in the high st,- sigh... Happy Days.... Cleggs general shop in the Brook?- Fox's (later Collins) shop in Clover st?- my dad managed Sidney Ross toy shop in the high st for 20 years. I'm afraid I was dismayed at what had happened to the town centre when I went back last year...but then, I guess I'm getting old. Thanks for the memories all you Chathamites, lets meet at the traffic lights and walk up to the pie stall by the station... where's the post office and Scotts woodyard gone??
Sun Oct 23 21:03:04 2005

looking for old friend
S. GARSIDE LATE OF BLYTH CAN ANY BODY HELP
Thu Oct 20 20:27:49 2005

stoke
looking for s. garside
Thu Oct 20 20:25:22 2005

Pat - Western Australia
To June - Milan. Hi June nice to hear from you. Yes Mr hayes was the Principal while I was a student at MCA. I was on a 5 year full time Commercial Art course there. I do remember Mr Hayes, did not have any contact with Dagma or the daughter. Best years of my life. Did you attend the Reunion "Do" last year? Well I think it was last year,could have been the previous year. I married Ron Shears in 1957, does anyone from Chatham remember the name.?
Wed Oct 19 12:20:05 2005

from stoke
looking for old freind susan garside of blyth northumberland d. v. r
Sun Oct 16 13:43:00 2005

canada
walker family emigrated from whitby n/yorks 1962/65 like to find them
Fri Oct 14 17:58:30 2005

Reg Gifford (ex Broadstairs)
Looking for shipmates HMS Victorious carrier
Fri Oct 14 07:12:05 2005

june, milan
To Pat, W. Australia. I remember Rochester Art College well as I was a close school friend of Nicola Hayes, whose father was the principal in the late 50's together with her mother Dagmar who taught history of art. The original building is still there, with of course a few annexes, right opposite the Dickens Centre (the old Museum). I used to go to Saturday morning sessions there.
Mon Oct 10 09:27:51 2005

Vince.Vancouver.B.C.
Mike, I for one quite agree with your thinking. It would be such a loss if we lose this sight by neglecting to use and support it. Since I first began using this fantastic service I have found a long lost cousin now livingin Paris and other relatives who live at Ashford. Fantastic as it may seem, Colin and I have happilly discovered that our families of the 1930-1940s were very close freinds. I think what may be missing on this site is direct contact with persons who are currently resident at Deal.I for one would greatly appreciate being in touch with any Deal resident who wants to chat and update me as to current affairs in that wondeful town. Best Wishes to all. Special 'Hi" Colin and thanks very much for the excellent pictures of Deal. You are doing a great job.Keep up the good work man.
Fri Oct 7 18:15:46 2005

Pat -West Australia
Mike, know exactly what you are saying...yes it's gone very quiet lately. I read this page almost daily.. Woiuld love to hear fromn anyone who went to Rochester School of Art (Eastgate House area) Or any one who lived in Hills Terrace Chatham. Anyone out there...anyone?
Thu Oct 6 13:16:31 2005

Roy Allchorne
I went to Orpington Boys School in Charterhouse Road, Orpington 1940 to 1944. In touch with several others who went there. Headmaster was "Johnny Walker" other teachers Mr True, Mr Godfrey, Miss Regan and I think the PT/Art chap was Mr Young. Remember the school receiving an A2 rocket in the playing field blowing out all the windows. We spent weeks having lessons in the shelters. Have found a photo site which shows both boys and girls part of the school. I remember the great diners we had for 2/6d a week, I was a meal and milk monitor in Miss Regans class 4A. Roy now in New Zealand.
Mon Oct 3 19:56:29 2005

Mike Australia
Have you all gone on holiday??? The site is very quiet these days. If there is not more action I can see the site going into limbo. There must be some ex pats that have visited Kent lately that can pass on some news.I realise we are going into winter, but that should not be an excuse. GET THE PENS OUT AND LETS GET THE CHAT GOING. Best wishes Mike
Sun Oct 2 02:38:42 2005

George, Merseyside
To Sarah, Chatham.....my sincere thanks for the in depth research which was obvious by the fullest detail of your message.....be assured it was greatly appreciated.....I had thought that maybe there was a remote chance that family members would have recognised the name (albiet the maiden name).....anyway, again many thanks.
Mon Sep 19 13:37:55 2005

Mike Australia
What a game all I can say is I want my bat and ball back and I am going home. Congratulations to the old dart. It was a great effort. Best wishes Mike
Tue Sep 13 01:17:09 2005

Sarah - Chatham
It is amazing the sites you find when you look up 'Malta Inn' on the Internet! George - I looked up Heagney and O'Hara in the phone book. There are no Heagney's and only 4 O'Hara's still in Medway: A, G, L.T and P. As for Grafton Place - I can't find it on the map although there is a Grafton Avenue in Chatham. There are various map websites online that you can look at to see the exact area you mean which might help. I saw somebody else mentioned friendsreunited.co.uk - I think that would be your best resource for contacting anyone you used to know in the UK. Good luck. As for everyone else from this area - you may be interested to know that there is major redevelopment underway in the area - thousands of new homes have been built along the river (too many), roads have been improved beyond all recognition, a new tunnel has been built under the river, parts of the dockside area have been redeveloped as a huge shopping centre and they are now planning to transform the town centre, moving the bus station away and redesigning the whole riverside area all the way through Chatham town centre down towards Rochester, aiming to provide lots of new restaurants etc by the river and a decent walkway all the way along. It could be quite nice, we hope although I am always sad when things change - but the poverty in the area needs to be sorted out. Medway can be very bleak. It is interesting to see that many of you have escaped - that being said, I love the people here. There is a quick wit here - usually found in poor areas - which keeps me amused and generally the kids are pretty sound, although we do have a lot of hoodies and drugs and other revolting things going on. I never forget the shock of the first week I was here, opening up the local paper and seeing what was going on - that paticular time, there had been murders, gang rapes, shootings, a boy set alight in the park in Gillingham by one of his friends... all they had in my old town's paper were stories about Bring and buy sales, and boyscouts etc. You are well out of the area - but I think if you do come back, you may now see some improvements. Luton still needs a lot doing to it though. Did you know the old cinema there burned down? They have replaced it with a massive Bingo hall. I'm trying to think of any other news. Rochester doesn't really have any empty shops any more whereas a few years back the High Street was looking quite sad... There are websites about Medway too now, so I'll leave it at that. I hope all of you find the people you are looking for. Good luck! And I only saw the Malta Inn from outside, but it looked very pretty - we were on a paddlesteamer, picking friends up from the Inn. But hubby says its not that great inside...
Mon Sep 12 14:58:01 2005

MOIRA INSTANCE, THORNLIE, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Anyone knowing Moira, she has a sister who is trying to trace her, email [email protected]
Fri Sep 9 14:47:57 2005

Norman Marks, Plymouth, UK
Norman Marks, Plymouth Devon Anybody from Sheerness who attended Central School for Boys from 1942 to 1945 interested in a school reunion? Please get in touch with me [email protected]. Thanks. Sorry for the misprint of my Email address Sun Aug 21 01:51:05 2005
Thu Sep 8 23:07:06 2005

ANNETTE...DEAL+USA
Moira lived in westgate on sea, if you have any information please email [email protected]
Thu Sep 1 15:14:42 2005

june, milan
Ciao Gus! Sto bene grazie! I think the name of the other pub in Luton was in fact the Luton Tavern (but will check). The shop at the bottom of Edinburgh Road was a newagents/sweet shop when I went to school at Luton Juniors (1950's), gobstoppers, barley sticks, sherbert, liquorish strings, bull's eyes etc. etc: remember). Granddad's name was Vernon and he was a good friend of Walter and Len Best. Nan's name was Alice Medhurst, they came from Strood originally. The only butchers shop I remember was Dewhursts. I don't know when you were last in Luton, or indeed Chatham, but it is all very run down and depressing now and a mixture of old houses, either boarded up or lived in by less fortunates, next to cheap modern flats and shops that sell everything and anything. However, it's home, and I'm fond of it, but would never go back apart from my twice yearly visits.
Wed Aug 24 16:20:37 2005

keith austin crawley sussex
i was brought up inthoroldroad inchatham inthe 1950,s iremember the frenches thetreeb,s and theparishes iwenttoschool with allof them had great times also remember the fights outside the rifleman pub at closingtimes.
Tue Aug 23 18:50:28 2005

Paul - Gillingham
I know we don't qualify as ex-pats, but do any of you remember a band which played in the Gillingham area in 1964/65 with an male Indian lead-singer? If you know his name or the name of the band please can you let us know.
Tue Aug 23 12:34:21 2005

Annette .. Deal + USA
Moria Gill ...re your post ... what town?
Mon Aug 22 02:18:11 2005

Norman Marks, Plymouth Devon
Anybody from Sheerness who attended Central School for Boys from 1942 to 1945 interested in a school reunion? Please get in touch with me [email protected]. Thanks
Sun Aug 21 01:51:05 2005

Gus Warner,Adelaide, Australia.
Hi! June in Milano,buon giorno,come sta? molto bene I hope, your email, again brought back memories. The rag yard at the bottom of Cage Lane which belonged to Wally Best and if your grandfather worked there I may well have known him. We used to congregate in Johns cafe next to Wally's yard and you say your mum goes to the salvation Army place on Church St., I have'nt thought of that place since I left over there over 40 years ago. My grandfather had a butcher shop in Church st back in the 20s before my time. I remember you mentioning Bob Whittakers fish shop, I knew his son when we were kids as his grandparents lived opposite us in Connaught Rd. Another thing you spoke about a while back was Cuckoos bakery in Luton, I remember it but for the life of me I can't remember where it was, also what was the name of the other pub in Luton High St apart from the Hen & Chicks. as you came around from the Parochial Hall it was on the left hand side. When we were kids we used to call at a bakery at the bottom of Edinburgh Rd. This was during the war but I can't remember the name of that one either. I seem to have cut off all my memories of Chatham since I left, it's funny but it does'nt mean that much to me these days. Never mind, it's good to see your emails, they jog the old grey matter a bit. Anyway June, Ciao for now, Gus.
Fri Aug 19 05:32:42 2005

june, milan
To Carla of Cage Lane Chatham. Pleased to read your message as my mother says she knew Annie Manning very well, they went to school together, and that another relative John Manning drives her to the Salvation Army meetings in Church Street every week. Mum is Betty Allen and she lived in Best Town and came from a large family. I spent a lot of childhood at Nan's house and remember all the places you mention and can picture it all still very clearly. My Granddad worked at the rag shed at the bottom of CL. Cage Lane was sometimes unfortunately ill-famed but the solidarity and happiness that people shared up there is rare today! Poor families were always helped by those who were better off. Other families I remember were the Dorringtons, the Wilkinsons, the Crusts and Kings. My mother too told me lots of tales about life there, both funny and sad and today at 80 she would give anything to go back and live there, in fact we walked up there last week but there is nothing left to remind us of old times! ps. My daughter is called Carla, not a very common name in Chatham!
Thu Aug 18 11:01:32 2005

Roger Martin. Australia
To Glen Ponter AZ U.S.A. "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" from an ex dockyard boy . Started in 1964 at St Mary,s Isl in the training school as a boilermaker after that went to submarines at battery corner and then on to nuclear subs , emigratted to Australia in 1973 and have been back once and took a look around the old place and found it interesting and they have one sub there that i worked on but at the time it was being prepared for opening the following year 1996 , but have not been back since. I have some great memorries of my time in the yard and only found one person over here that I new then . But would like to contact a few old buddies to see how they have done in the last forty or so years ? so if there is any old dockyard personnel out there who new me or my twin brother Keith (blacksmith) or my eldest brother Ian (ship fitter) then please get in touch with me!!! Roger
Thu Aug 18 00:37:46 2005

Glenn Ponter, AZ , USA
Well I turn 50 today, and was thinking about my first day as an apprentice at Chatham Dockyard and was just wondering what happened to all those I knew in there. I had great times at the museum in Rochester and all those great pubs!
Wed Aug 17 00:34:58 2005

Roy Allchorne Auckland, New Zealand
Re my post regarding Green St Green near Farnborough, Kent. I forgot to give my E-mail address. It is [email protected] Roy
Tue Aug 16 07:52:35 2005

Gus Warner, Adelaide, Australia
Carla, what a lovely surprise, yes I do know Wally Williams, or did know wally but it has been well over 40 years since I was over there. wally, along with a partner, whose name slips my decrepit old memory for the moment, had a nightclub on New Road just around the corner from Manor Road, at least that was the Wally Williams I knew. A great guy. His family had a greengrocery shop on Henry Street. Have I got the right Wally Williams? I was playing in a group and the last night I played in the U.K. was at that club and Wally and his partner ask me to stay in Chatham and manage the club for them. I knew Cage Lane very well right from my birth because my Grandmother lived in Bush Street and my father was born in Middle Street. I also had an uncle and aunt that had the pub in Hards Town and a Great Aunt who had the pub on the corner of Slicketts Hill and Cross Street. My Grandmother was a full Romany and so I was brought up with a good understanding of Romany jib, or pooker as it is known. I have never wanted to go back to the U.K. as it holds no interest for me and I have forgotten most of the places I knew around the Medway Towns but you did shake the old grey matter up when you mentioned Wally. I was born on Cabbage Island, as they used to call Luton but that is well over 70 years ago but nowadays this is home for us. We enjoy a great lifestyle here and I've always said it's better to be warm and miserable than cold and miserable, joking of course, because we're never very miserable, we always see the happier side of life. Well Carla, As the Romanies say, Latcho Divvus and Kooshti Bok. to you and yours and if I have the right Wally Williams give him my fondest regards.
Tue Aug 16 04:56:15 2005

Carla..Chatham..Cage Lane
I have just came across this site by accident after searching for 'cage lane' and was very surprised that people had mentioned it. Gus Warner from adelaide..do you know of my grandad 'Wally' Walter williams..or maybe my nan on my mums side.. Annie Manning (Hoskin)..she was always telling me her stories which i loved and they included all her friends from the cage lane area..she passed away a couple of weeks ago and we're all missing her so much. I especially miss our talks and her extremely funny tales...We use to chat for hours about her life..she definitely spoke about all the places that have been mentioned previously.. I think June from milan mentioned cage lane too..hope you come back to this site and post again.
Mon Aug 15 13:55:44 2005

Pat - West Australia
Still looking for school friends from Woodlands CS School in the early 50s. Thelma Hill and Jeanette Beeson. Thelma Hill emigrated with her parents to Wanganui New Zealand (North Island)Jeanette married and lived in the Medway Towns.
Mon Aug 15 12:43:01 2005

Roy Allchorne Auckland New Zealand
I was born and lived in Green Street Green near Farnborough Kent and emigrated to NZ in 1955.I would like to make contact with anyone from the area from 1936 to 1952. Having lived in New Zealand for 50 years, I am aware of 18 people in NZ that lived within 2 miles of Green St Green. Have been back to the area a number of times and met many old school friends, would like contact with anyone who knew me or my family. Unfortunately I am unable to make further visits, but like to keep in touch.
Sun Aug 14 09:29:22 2005

Moria Gill
Looking for Moria Gill, married name unknown, believed to have moved to Australia, parents names Joan and George Gill last known address victoria avenue in 50's. Moria you have a sister who is trying to trace you. email [email protected]
Sun Aug 7 22:11:07 2005

Pat - West Australia
Hi Tony. Sorry I did not know your wife Elizabeth Pool. I certainly remember the school hall. I left Woodlands around 1952, cant remember the exact year as I then attended The Medway College of Art at Rochester for 5 years. I went to Twydall Infant school prior to all that.
Sat Aug 6 04:03:41 2005

mary alberta
I agree with you Amanda. I came to Canada after the second World War as a war-bride, I still miss what family I have left. We have been back quite a few times and I love the countryside, but we couldn't live there. The crowds and the traffic would be too much for me now.
Wed Aug 3 15:55:37 2005

Amanda, Calgary, Canada
It wasn't until the bombings in London recently that my British Blood flowed again. I consider myself British by birth and Canadian by choice. There is no way I could have my Canadian lifestyle in the UK. I'm very glad to have moved away from Herne in 1990 and would not move back, especially now with the new problems they are experiencing. My husband and I have carved ourselves a lovely, fulfilled life here. I just don't know how people can afford to live there anymore. We have a similar income here to what we had there but get way more for our money. Best move we made, still miss good friends though - that's the biggest drawback.
Tue Aug 2 20:19:25 2005

Richard Cornwall
Griggs Pease Puddng & Faggots.....now that brings back memories ! Boy, they tasted good !
Sat Jul 30 20:19:24 2005

tony cheshire
hi pat W.A IWENT TO WOODLANDS SC IN LATE 50,s EARLY 60,s I PRESUME FROM YOUR NAME YOU ARE FEMALE IREMEMBER THE SCHOOL BEING SEPARATED BY THE LARGE HALL WHICH USED TO DOUBLE AS A GYM MUCH TO THE JOY OF US BOYS. I MARRIED AGIRL FROM THE SCHOOL HER NAME WAS ELIZABETH POOLE DID YOU KNOW HER,WE HAD TWO CHILDREN BUT WE GOT DIVORCED MANY YEARS AGO AND SHE NOW LIVES IN OZ AS DO THE KIDS.SHE LIVES IN NAMBUCCA HEADS N,S,W. AND THE KIDS LIVE IN CURRIMBIN NEAR SURFERS PARADISE QLD. PERHAPS WE HAVE SOME MUTUAL FRIENDS STILL IN GILLINGHAM, IUSED TO LIVE IN LYNSTED RD ON TWYDALL EST. HOPE TO HEAR FROM YOU SOON.
Sat Jul 30 14:47:51 2005

george merseyside
Roger NSW Aussie....many thanks for that info....you bring back memories suggesting the PEMBROKE GATE entrance.....all the best!
Wed Jul 27 12:46:24 2005

Roger .n.s.w Australia
George Merseyside Yes you are correct about that new road entering into the Old Dockyard at I believe Pembroke Gate ( THE DOCKYARD CLOSED AROUND 1980)and coming out via a tunnel somewhere around Upnor? as far as I know!!!! I also worked in the Dockyard as a boilermaker from 1964 -1973 at battery corner and then at the nuclear refit section on submarines. Then emigrated to Australia in 1973. Roger
Mon Jul 25 05:03:50 2005

sally ref luton
My nan worked in Cox's the bakers and both her and my grandad were well known around Luton- wagon at Hale etc
Sun Jul 24 22:50:09 2005

Annette USA
Mike ... it was a horror to hear about and witness ... on the day the bombings occured many of us couldn't get through to friends and relatives who live in and around London on land line phones. A great relief to get through the next day to find all safe. That a small faction who made England their home, by birth or emigration is so sad. 99% are grateful to have a good free life in England .. but a fraction of the young ones are so easily led by fanatics who I personally think, are mad .. mentally. I am so proud of the way the law in England have handled this .. with the latest episodes ..they are truly on the ball. God Bless the tough reserve we Brits have .. what a tough breed we are. I am so proud to have British blood flowing through my veins. As I know you all are. Just a true Kent attitude ..
Fri Jul 22 21:25:11 2005

Clare US
Antone out there went to ST Gregory's school in Margate, during the war, was evacuated to Cannock in Staffordshire. If there is anyone out there please contact me on this board.
Thu Jul 21 05:10:45 2005

Trev British Columbia Canada
A kind note from you Mike in Australia. I was born in Cliftonville Kent. My mother lived through the blitz while dad was away fighting with Monty. She lived in Bexleyheath and shared the Anderson shelter in the back garden with three neighbours. Each day she rode her bike too Woolich working at the British Home Stores. She used to me tales of the relentlus airaids and the dreaded doodle bombs. From the cold black nights in the shelter to the day she tried to bike home in the pouring rain after the siren went off and came face to face with a Luftwaffer pilot trying his luck at hitting the Woolwich Arsenal. He was only about a hundred feet up when they made eye contact. My dear mother who died in 1997 still felt the pride of that day she gave him the finger and stood her ground. The nazis picked the wrong target on that day and London stood its ground throughout the conflict. These sad pathetic people with their mis-guided beliefs have made the same mistake. Don't mess with the bloody mindedness of the Englishman, and even more so the Londoner. God bless all of you lot over their all us ex-pats are pulling for you.
Mon Jul 11 23:31:31 2005

Mike Australia
I think I speak for all EX PATS when we say how sorry we were to see the news on the bombing in London. The world has gone crazy, and when we think back to WW2 it must make you wonder what all those gallent Men and Women died for. I wonder where one could go to really feel safe? It must be a mamoth task trying to protect the Countries inferstructure and lets hope that the people responsible will be caught and the poor people that have lost thier lives will be revenged. God bless Mike
Sat Jul 9 08:23:30 2005

mary alberta canada
I have lived in Canada now for 60 years, I came from England and I still love the countryside. We have been back several times to see my family and we enjoyed going there but, not to live. I like to think of England as it was before the 11 World War.
Thu Jun 30 16:55:39 2005

Annette in USA
Sandra!!! Jeff!!! Colin!!! Mike!!! GREAT NEWS!! A woman in Connecticut won 59 million dollars on the superball lottery!!!! BAD NEWS!! it was NOT ME! darn ... hehehe ....
Wed Jun 29 20:16:08 2005

Colin Australia
Having lived in and become an Australian citizen after more than forty years i also endorse what both Mike and Jeff say. I think though to have memories of times gone bye and to share them with other readers is an enjoyable and sometimes rewarding experience especially when one finds old mates from long ago and also forms new freindships with people from a time that you remember with fondness.
Tue Jun 28 21:33:26 2005

Annette USA
Sandra... Jeff.. Colin ... in the USA a person won the big lottery power-ball 2 times in a row! A minnionaire several times over now and I think I heard she is the mother of a famous modern day singer .. Maria Carey maybe? [like her mum needed it to take a trip home hahaha] So we can spare a $1 a week to give it a try. Colin ... I think I told you that my mother worked in The Queens Hotel in the 60's as you did. She loved the place. I used to go to dances in that small club underneath it .. entry on Castle Road? ahhh great days. The Royal Hotel is still there and a nice place to stay but I think Jeff and Colin will agree that B & B in St. Margaret's Bay sounds like THE best. Mike .... yes I am glad I emigrated to America alone.. life is good .. but only I think because I made it that way .. we are/were a tough bunch og people to do what we did in the 50's 60's 70's. And yes we see a change in the face of England as we see a change in face of our adopted countries. I would love to spend half my year in the Deal area and half here where I live in Connecticut. I am there often and see changes that are good.. bad... and ugly .. in both places. My families in the Deal area are living quite well for working class people. In our age groups .. we have seen many changes in our two countries and our personal lives. The best changes I have seen is in the medical field and how many working class children now go on to college. THAT is a good thing. Anyone else who wants a trip to Kent for an ex-pats gathering please give your names to Colin.. Jeff.. Sandra ... they are donating plane tickets if they get a big win! I am 50% Welsh .. on the tight side hehehehe :) Wishing all a good week ... The Brit in New England ..
Tue Jun 28 18:20:04 2005

Sandra, Australia
I agree with everything that Mike and Jeff have said. I have lived in Australia for over 30 years and have been very happy here. I have no serious intention of returning to England permanently. Having said that, I would love to go over there for an extended holiday (in the summer months of course). I have only ever been back once about twelve years ago and I enjoyed every minute. I have many fond memories of England, and Deal in particular and look forward to visiting again at some stage. Best wishes to all.
Tue Jun 28 15:07:09 2005

Jeff, Perth West Australia
Hi all I have to endorse everything that Mike said having been here myself for 32 years. The only way I could live in the UK now is to be filthy rich so that you can isolate yourself from all the social problems. I have known a few that have got homesick and returned to live in the UK only to turn around and come back here again. Its not paradise and we are starting to get the same problems here as in the UK but nowhere to the same extent and hopefully never will. Having said that 6 numbers and I'm outa here, Jeff
Tue Jun 28 08:45:03 2005

Mike Australia
Reading some of the latest comments on Deal I wonder why the people ever left it I undestand that we all think a lot of where we came from, but we must also remember the reason we left in the first place. Would I be correct in thinking that a lot of peaple made a grave mistake in leaving there home town? Having now lived in Australia for the past 45 years and having been back a few times some for pleasure and others for business I can honestly say I made the right decision in leaving for a better life in Australia. When you read the news and see the problems that exist in the County and the rest of the UK one would have to wonder. We have a lot of friends who visit from the UK and never really want to go back, but are forced to by circumstances beyond their control. We do have our share of problems out here, but not enough to make me want to pack up and go back to live in the UK and Kent. Best wishes to all Mike
Sun Jun 26 05:48:01 2005

Colin Australia
The Queens Hotel a beautiful place in its day, but sadly those days long gone. I worked thier for a few months in the sixties and even then her glory days had past there use by date. Tuesday Thursday and Saturday night i wait for my numbers to pop out of that big ball but all i have is a space in my wallet where my money once had been. Still its nice to dream and you never know maybe one day............
Sat Jun 25 13:22:08 2005

Sandra, Australia
Annette.... no luck with the lottery yet but still trying. I need a MAJOR win (i.e. 6 numbers) if I'm to pay for Jeff and Colin too!! Are there any nice hotels in Deal these days? You should know the answer to that, Annette. Last time we went to Deal we stayed at a really nice B&B at St Margaret's Bay - beautiful rooms with en-suite facilities and absolutely superb full English breakfasts - you know, bacon & eggs, black pudding (!!), grilled tomatoes etc etc. But that was over 10 years ago. Best wishes to Jeff and Colin and all ex-pats.
Wed Jun 22 15:30:43 2005

Clare Wa
Trev BC.Oh how I envy you,Dorset is such a lovely area, I have a friend here who is marrying a man from Dorset. Do please keep in touch,would love the goings on at home, I miss it dreadfully. Cannot return to live as I have two daughters that are ill in health, or else I would be on that plane. I would love the peace and quiete of a small town.Cheers Bon Voyage Clare
Wed Jun 22 00:39:19 2005

Annette USA
Sandra ... I take it you have not won the lottery yet then? I did not hear your screams of joy from AUS to USA!!! We can still dream ... Jeff and Colin .. you may be luckier than Sandra ..here's the deal [my birth-place] whoever wins out of you three.. buys the flight tickets for the other two.. if I win .. ermmm... hehehe ... I will chip in. What hotel shall we stay in? The beautiful Queens Hotel on Deal seafront burned down years ago ): Okay ... off I go to buy the lucky ticket!!! Wishing all ex-pats a good week .. where'er you are.
Tue Jun 21 16:55:33 2005

Trev British Columbia Canada
To Clare. Born 1946 in Surrey Rd Cliftonville. My parents bought a small hotel there after the war. My father Leslie Payton was one of the leading members of the hotel association and pushed forward in the fifties to have lights through all the trees on the local roads. They also promoted the tourist draw of there being money hidden in the golden sands of Margate. (threepenny bits and sixpences. They sold up and we moved to Canada in 1957, I was ten. I have lost count of the trips back to the UK the last to Cliftonville was 1999. I'm just glad my old dad never lived to see the way it is today. However Clare in saying that my wife and I who are now both retired are moving to Dorset in March of 2006. I'm going home, although not Kent it is still mother England. We bought a house in Sherborne and will spend our remaining years in that tranquill setting and away from the stressed filled world of Vancouver and Victoria.
Sun Jun 19 22:39:28 2005

Pat - West Australia
Any one out there who went to Woodlands CS School Gillingham Kent?
Sat Jun 18 05:38:35 2005

Clare Wa
MARGATE I was born in Margate and lived in Cliftonville,which hotel is it that you want, there are many hotels in Cliftonville,and where in Cliftonville was it located.?
Wed Jun 15 20:21:38 2005

Clare Wa
Trevor Canada.I was born All Saints Ave down near Margate station,in 1933,so I was one of the evacuees during the war.We moved to Clifftonville and we had a boarding house on Northdown road, next to Percy Gore the real estate agent.Lived also up near Ye Olde Charles in, I loved that place. I still have a sister that still lives in Margate and a brother that lives in Birchington.My husband has never been over there, the last time I was home was 94, but plan on going again soon.Cliftonville was a sorry sight, but to me it's still home.
Wed Jun 15 20:16:19 2005

margate
I am looking for an address or e-mail for the Cliftonville hotel, I spend my youth there.
Tue Jun 14 03:16:29 2005

mick, New Brunswick Canada
I was born in Minster, Thanet, and now live in Canada.I would love to have a good pint of beer.
Mon Jun 13 15:17:31 2005

George, Merseyside
Used to live in Gillingham and worked in Chatham Dockyard.....can any one help me....I was looking on a map of the area and it seems that a new road has been made running from the old Hoath Lane (Rainham Mark) south to the Strand area and along the road leading to one of the dockyard entrances close to the bottom of Richmond Road. My question is has Grafton Place been demolished? If I wonder can any one help locate two families who lived there. One was Heagney and the other O'Hara.....your assistance would be appreciated....thankyou in advance.
Mon Jun 6 23:29:19 2005

Sandra, Australia
Hi Annette It would indeed be fantastic one day to be able to meet up in Deal. I shall go in for the lottery each week and keep on hoping! A reunion of Deal ex-pats would be even better. You never know - stranger things have happened. As you say, the weather over there would be lovely just now for a visit. June - one of the nicest months of the year in England!
Thu Jun 2 14:39:36 2005

Clare Wa
Sarah Brisbane, I was born in Margate and lived in Cliftonville in the 30s, "are you talking about Honinton House school in Cliftonville, I still have family there. Clare
Tue May 31 05:14:56 2005

Annette .. USA
Sandra .. I would love to be home in the coastal area of Kent .. just looking at the Channel .. the White Cliffs... and the beautiful green everything .. oh and the bright yellow rapeseed that makes it look as though Kent were coated with gold :) am getting a touch of homesickness just thinking of it. It will be fantastic if one day you were back there from Aus and I would fly there from the USA. Would be even more wonderful if Jeff and Colin did the same thing. Jeff and Colin .... buy a few more lottery tickets!! Hoping all are having a great weekend. It is awesome right now in New England. Annette ...
Sun May 22 02:42:14 2005

Sandra, Australia
Hi Annette.... I have received your email message and responded to you. It was nice to hear from you again. The weather in Kent must be really nice just now at the end of Spring. I would love to be over there walking and driving in the countryside. In comparison to many parts of Australia which are currently in drought - England is always so green. Best wishes to all ex-pats from Kent.
Fri May 20 14:32:48 2005

USA/UK
Sandra in Australia ... there has been a problem with my outgoing mail for about a month I think. Jeff, Colin and you say you have not received my replies to your most welcome emails/jokes etc. I have defragged my PC and hoovered it out hahaha.. hoping now all are getting my mail! Hoping all goes correct! Annette ...your Dealite friend :-))
Wed May 18 16:04:05 2005

Mufulira, Zambia
Someone posted message on 7 March looking for anyone in Mufulira, Zambia during the mid 17970's. I was there with my husband Gordon Richards and my name is Janice. The old ex-pat from Mufulira web-site is not funtioning at the moment and there were many old friends on that. Look forward to hearing from anyone who may remember me.
Thu May 12 10:56:15 2005

America
Jeff ... it seems you are not getting any of my mail... I have sent 2 or 3 replies to your last mail but your reply shows you are not getting them. If not try this other address [email protected] I will look for you mate ... Annette ..
Wed May 11 18:08:33 2005

r.law gorden road
pupils at gorden road school and station road 1939 then rochester tec;
Wed May 11 14:18:51 2005

Stacy. Maidstone
We are thinking of moving to Toronto, Canada. We have three children and the eldest is in grammar school. Does anyone know how their education system compares to ours and have any other advice etc?
Tue May 10 10:59:59 2005

Uncle Ron & Aunt Pat - Australia
Looking for Flair, husband Colin and children Jessica and Annika. Please get in touch
Sun May 8 00:47:53 2005

Annette ...
Forrester says: ..Finally...anyone remember The Piggeries coffee bar in Chatham? not far from the Empire....the place used to get full of Yanks from Manston Airbase. Needless to say 'us locals' weren't too happy... Forrester .. in my area of Kent they were respectfully called Americans
Sat Apr 23 03:43:00 2005

june, milan
Forrester, don't want to hog the forum but I must reply to yours regarding RMB. I remember them very well because I used to sing with an ameteur operatics group called the Peter Hudson Players (anyone remember them?) and the RMB played for our performances at the Town Hall. They were a charming (and dashing!) bunch. One of my friends in the Players fell in love with one of them, married him and moved to Brompton to live. The PHP conductor was a large, moustached chap called Frank Ray. You are right, they were really great, I'm glad you brought back that memory!
Thu Mar 31 15:59:00 2005

forrester, gillingham
On a Sunday morning my parents used to take us all to Chatham to see the military church parade with the Royal Marine Band leading the procession.(RMB in capital letters because in my opinion they were the Cream of the Crop)We then would walk along the dockyard wall road and into Brompton then to Gillingham. I look back with pride of those days. Of course all the other services personnel were around the towns. The Medway area was fairly affluent then. Re the Parlour...I think I new it as The Black and White Milk Bar..I spent a few hours hours in that place!!!
Wed Mar 30 17:57:23 2005

june, milan
John: yes I remember "Cuckoos" in Luton. There was also Packers near the Luton Arches and Bournes in Chatham High Street, and according to Mum who is enjoying these memories tremendously, they all sold a pennyworth of broken cakes which the children bought on their way to school. Returning to split peas, there was a shop run by a couple of old sisters on Slicketts Hill, just off Cage Lane, which sold the best in town. Anyone remember Kennedy's in Eldon Street, he sold everything and anything to anyone, usually on tick! And lastly Whitakers fish and chip shop at the bottom of Church Street and a ha'penny worth of crackling....what a treat! Forrrester: yes remember the Piggeries, the name made us laugh. We also used to go to The Parlour a bit further along, where they had dancing in an underground room at weekends in the 60's. What about the Ice Cream Parlour in Military Road next to Burtons? that sold those fantastic Knickerbocker Glories.
Wed Mar 30 15:48:06 2005

forrester, gillingham
When I visited The Malta Inn in the 50's it was a secluded, quiet, small riverside hostelry, where peace and tranquility were the order of the day. The manager (maybe owner?) was an ex RAF type with a "Jimmy Edwards" style handlebar moustache. After walking the riverside path from Maidstone it was the ideal retreat to enjoy a pint of beer and ham batches or cheese and onion batches which were the "menu" during a lunchtime rest. The ripple of the water, the chirping of the birds was all the ear would get. Three years ago ,(and with those memories in the back of my mind)I visited again on a Sunday lunchtime. There was certainly no peace and tranquility that day-outside was band which was so over amplified one could here it miles away. There was a couple of coaches in and every one was having a "grand old time". That was not my scene, never was nor ever shall be. Oh yes I understand times change, and old memories are sometimes disappointing, I guess that is what happened to me. Will I return, well yes I will, because that Travel Inn is nearer to where I want to be. (I was staying at Wrotham Heath that paricular time)....Finally...anyone remember The Piggeries coffee bar in Chatham? not far from the Empire....the place used to get full of Yanks from Manston Airbase. Needless to say 'us locals' weren't too happy.
Tue Mar 29 20:01:47 2005

Vince Goodwin.Vancouver.B.C.Canada
Hey Gus ,thank a million for the recipes. I have tried to find the faggots recipe for years but no luck. All the Best.
Mon Mar 28 20:25:42 2005

john
Talking about food, Does any one remember a bakery in Luton called (I think) "Cuckoos"? Always when I was in that vicinity I used to get some of their "lead squares" aka currant/date sclices. All I remember is that they were about 3 x 3 square and one and a half inches thick. Delicious, and the least expensive of all the cakes.
Mon Mar 28 19:39:22 2005

Jeff, Perth West Australia
To Roy, Yes you did jog my memory and you were right about old man Griggs sweating like a pig as he was a large man who had obviously consumed a lot of his own food. To Gus thanks for the spelling and the cookery lessons. You must have been a teacher once. Jeff
Sat Mar 26 23:42:44 2005

Roy Cairns Australia
To Jeff in Perth... Jeff, Griggs Pease Pudding and Faggot shop was in Jeffrey Street, Gillingham. You were right when you said that it was just down from the High Street, in fact Jeffrey Street ran parallel with the High Street. I lived in Kingswood Road until 1964 and one of the chores that my two brothers, (the two sisters were much too young to be trusted with such a precious job), and I had to do was go to Grigg's to get the dinner. If you left Gillingham Railway station and walked down Victoria Street and then took the first left turn into Jeffrey Street, Grigg's was about 3 houses on the right hand side, just before the timber/hardware site. If I remeber correctly, old man Griggs used to sweat profusely whilst cooking, it was extremely hot in that shop, his wife would put the order onto your dish when cooked. In those days we thought very little of the sweat that must have been on the food, it would never be allowed to operate under those conditions today. I hope this has helped to jog your memory as to the location. Cheers Jeff; Roy Lauder
Sat Mar 26 03:12:12 2005

gus warner, adelaide, australia
Jeff in Perth,pease pudding (note the spelling) 250 grams yellow split peas, 1 medium-sized peeled potato, good knob of butter,salt pepper. Tip the peas into a fairly large square clothand add potato, tie firmly with string but leave enough room for the split peas to swell and boil for a couple of hours,lift the bag out,empty into a bowl and beat well with the back of a wooden spoon add the butter and season. Now for the faggots. 500grms pig liver, 250g onion, 280g fresh breadcrumbs, 60g suet,1/2 tsp dried sage, salt pepper. Mince liver, mix with finely chopped onion breadcrumbs sage suet s&p. Divide into 9/10 balls place in a shallow dish, flatten tops slightly, cover with greased foil and bake in oven at 180c for about an hour. If you can be bothered to do this you will have "pease pudding and faggots" as good as any you've ever had. I can't recall the shop in Gillingham but you've got me tasting them again so I think I will have to take over the kitchen for a couple of hours.
Fri Mar 25 04:30:36 2005

Mike, Medway
F.A.O. Derek Goddard Hi Derek, as an ex-'Holcombian' myself I always find the 'friendsreunited' website very good for Chatham Tech. information; there are some really good photo's on there of the old place aswell. Hope this helps regrds Mike (off-shore in Brazil at the moment).
Wed Mar 23 21:54:54 2005

June, Milan
to Jeff, Perth, talking of peas, I remember how dried or split peas used to be kept in a bucket of water outside the grocers. They were spooned out with an enamel trowel and wrapped in waterproof paper then newspaper which however had got soggy by the time you arrived home. A favourite part of our Sunday roast! As you said, today's generation wouldn't be keen on running such an errand for their mothers!
Tue Mar 22 13:18:29 2005

June, Milan
To John: Yes I remember Leysdown very well, we had a caravan there and used to go at weekends and for a holiday in the summer. It was also a popular place with Londoners. A favourite passtime was Bingo, and the site we were on held social evenings in the club room. In the sixties large groups used to scooter down (Mods and Rocker days!). I've never bee back since.
Tue Mar 22 13:10:01 2005

Derek Goddard
Attended Chatham Technical School, Holcombe from 1951 until 1955, thence to Chatham Dockyard as Interim student Apprentice until 1961. Varied career with MOD,early retirement and now a Priest with the Church of England in Haverthaite (Southern Lake District). Is there any intention to have a 50 year reunion for the 1955 pupils at Holocombe?
Mon Mar 21 19:50:27 2005

john
Meopham village in the summer, watching the cricket matches used to attract me. Youth hostelling for the weekend at Goudhurst. Did any one go to Leysdown on the Isle of Sheppey??
Mon Mar 21 01:38:18 2005

Jeff, Perth West Australia
Heres a memory teaser for all you Gillinghamites. Does any one remember the location of Grigg's peas pudding and faggot shop in Gillingham in the 50's. I know it was in a street just down from the High st and operated out of a normal house front which had been converted to a shop. As a kid I used to have to go there and pick up some and I remember they were delicious and the smell was one of its own. Apparently the receipe died with old man Griggs. I doubt you would even get todays generation to even try it.
Sun Mar 20 00:28:30 2005

june milan
Dear Forrrester, of course I don't mean that Boxley village is dangerous, you either misread or didn't get the point. I merely suggested that for a gang of young kids (under tens) to trek lonely country lanes unaccompanied isn't as safe as it was 40 years ago! Frankly I can't imagine anything happening in sleepy Boxley village, not even rowdy drunks at the the Kings Head pub! On the other hand, may I ask what you mean about "different sort of clientele" at the Malta? Do you mean people like me and my family, with our grandchildren, enjoying a drink by the river while the children play happily close by? And thank goodness for the hotel, it brings in trade, tourists and money to the area and also provides many jobs for local people...I know some of them!
Fri Mar 18 12:56:23 2005

forrester, gillingham
Ladies first.....June Milan....visiting Boxley today is dangerous? do you mean the treck there, or what? Surely you are not suggesting it is unsafe to enjoy a day out in the village?........now John....I certainly remember the malta inn. I was there a couple of years ago and much has changed from the days when I new it as a remote riverside hostelry. Fremlins were the brewery (Now Whitbread)Peace and tranquility were the order of the day. Now there is a hotel there!! I hasten to add a different type of clientele were present.....during my apprenticeship days I played football for EEMD (electrical department) and against a team from the Borstal Institution, named Institution Sports, they were always top of the league, won all the cups, it was like playing proffessional side. I always remember when we played them on their home field we used to 'smuggle' to them packets of 5 woodbine cigarettes Often wondered whether that facility still exists??......all part of growing up!!
Thu Mar 17 18:41:33 2005

Tony cheshire
i am from gillingham origanaly and was born in canda house we lived in fourth ave before my parents moved to twydall est i went to featherby infants /junior schools then on to woodlands secondary in the late 50s. i can recall the pavillon in gillinham bowling alley etc great times had in the medway towns should anybody remember tony bell i would like to hear from you email [email protected]
Wed Mar 16 08:39:13 2005

Anna Chelmsford
Hi - I'm in the UK for a few months and wold like to trace my Family Tree. Grandmother Frances Thomas (nee Vessey) born in 1919 in London, grew up in Kent - near Tonbridge Wells? had school friend Grace Woodsford (nee Boland) and emigrated to Murchinson, New Zealand in 1939 with Kenneth George Thompsett. I wonder if any any residents in Kent remember my grandmother?
Tue Mar 15 15:03:09 2005

john
I remember the concerts at the Theatre Royal and the Empire. There was a riverside pub called 'The Malta Inn' located nearby and on the opposite side of the road to the Running Horse pub area on the way to Maidstone.
Tue Mar 15 12:49:30 2005

Roger N.S.W. Australia [email protected]
I am trying to find an old 78 rpm record that I listened to as a child back in the fifties with my brothers. it was called "Fire Fire Fire" and started with a phone ringing and someone answers the phone and say,s in a yorkshire accent " you got a fire at the old timber yard ee by gum that would be good to watch" and then he brings the firemen to order and starts the engine at the same time shooing chicken and cats off of the fire engine. This is a comedy record and if anybody has heard it or has a copy or knows where i can get a copy could they please let me know ? As myself and two brothers are trying to obtain a copy ( my two brothers are still living in Kent)as this brings fond memories of our childhood. Roger
Tue Mar 15 01:08:14 2005