McCarthy/Conden and Leybourne Grange by Richard Suffolk

I have aquired a marriage certificate dated 1859 at St Mary's West Malling for Mary McCathy and John Conden.  I would be interested to know if either of these names have any connection to West Malling.  The witnesses were Charles Evans and Martin Galloway.

Is there anyway of tracing the staff at Leybourne Grange?  Someone mentioned foreign workers there - any idea if any of the workers were French?

West Malling childhood by Peter Hazelwood

I have been looking with some interest at your web page and reading the comments of people seeking information on West Malling.  It takes me back years as I spent my childhood and youth in West Malling.  I still remember so much even though I emigrated to Australia in 1968.  I lived in 10 Churchfields until I was 5 and then we moved to 61 Ewell Avenue and I lived there with my parents until I left, many fond memories.

Peter Hazelwood

The Abbey by Max Double

In 1891, an ancestor was working as one of a number of servants for a Mrs Akers at "The Abbey".  The previous entry in the census, headed Swan St, lists a Matron and children of the Abbey Home and there are cottages listed after The Abbey.  Does anyone know any more about this set up at that time?

Max Double

Holland family by Heather Bishop

Hello, I am trying to gather information about my family.  William Hollands, born about 1739 married to Mary Maidman.  Children were Anne born 1782, William born 1785, John born 1788, Thomas born 1790, William born 1792.  Don't know if there are any others.

If you could help it would be great.  Thanks, Heather Bishop Nee Holland.

Malling House by Marie Westcott

Can anybody remember Malling House being a girls boarding school, as I am an ex pupil who is trying to obtain photos of Malling House from the 70s.

Can anybody help please?  Marie Westcott

Memories from the 60's by Martin Jacques

The best years of my life were spent in West Malling, an idyllic place to grow up in the 1960's and early 70's.  My family orinally lived in a two up two down in Offham road with outside toilet, but then moved to nr. 1, Fartherwell Avenue.  My dad, Bernard worked at the Mill but also as a reserve fireman in the village.  Our next door neighbours in Fartherwell avenue were the Bakers and one one of my earliest memories is standing very embarassed, as children marched arm in arm around West Malling infants school chanting "Martin loves Bridget", Bridget being one of their children.  Mrs Hurn was a one of my teachers there.  At West Malling juniors two of my teachers were Miss Hanchett and Mrs Burke - both remarkable characters.

I wonder does anyone remember Bobby Sloman or Ian Tilley, Colin or his sister Shona or Martin Milner perhaps?  Me and my elder brother Denis - seven years older than me and my sister Patricia in turn then went to Clare Park school and eventually moved away to Larkfield.

I actually eventually became a vicar no less and I am writing this from Bucharest, Romania, but after thee years abroad I am coming back to the UK - to Durham.  So much water under the bridge, but it says something that all these years later I am interested in what became of people 35 years ago in a little village in Kent.  I must be getting old.

Martin Jacques

Swan Street Basketworks by Suzie Shearer

This is a request for information please.  My Grandmother, Muriel Lemon (nee Kensall) moved with her family to West Malling in approx. 1938.   Her father was Percy Kensall who ran the basketworks in Swan St.  Granny worked in a shop owned by the Baldocks for a period of time.   She remembers Mrs Baldock and her husband, the Bodkins who had a drapers shop opposite.  She remembers Babs Robinson (whose Mother had a pub??), Maulve, her step sister Nora, someone called Donald Wood (who courted Granny in the early 1940's), his brother Frank and sister Florrie.

She moved to West Malling with her parents Percy & Sarah and her siblings, Ken, Dorothy & Phyllis.  Granny's memories of this time are a bit gappy, so if anyone remembers her or anything relating to West Malling at that time, we would be very grateful.  Particularly helpful would be confirmation of exactly where the basketworks were on Swan St and if they still exist in any way.

Many thanks, Suzie Shearer

Discover West Malling Village & Airfield 1956 by John Chilton

Discover West Malling Village & Airfield 1956 was filmed by John Holton©, who was a navigator with the RAF stationed at West Malling Airfield in 1956.  There is a DVD compilation of John's 8mm cine film which includes:

* Village scenes starting at the train station and then to the High Street and various places within the village *

* Meteors taking off from the airfield and flying over Eastbourne to the French Coast Cap Griz Nez and landing back at West Malling *

* RAF Sports Day at the airfield *

* The annual Battle of Britain event with various aircraft landing and flying by *

... and finally a few shots of the Bristol Brigand, which was used to train navigators.

Added in 2006 are shots from film found in John's loft of two airmen racing their Sunbeam Alpine cars around the perimeter road of the airfield.

This DVD is only available on DVD-R.  A donation from the sale of each DVD is made to the RAF Association, Aylesford & Malling.

If this is of interest to your viewers full details can be seen here

The Huff's from Wrotham, Kent in 1905/06 by Debbie Whitelaw

Hello, I wonder if anyone can help.  My grandmother, Alice Huff, was born to Alice & William Huff in 1905.  Her her mother died in 1906, leaving my grandmother when she was just a year or so old.  They were then living in St Mary's Road in Wrotham.

Having looked at the census of 1911 it said that my grandmother aged 5 was living as a boarder in Sevenoaks with a widow called Kate Luck and her daughter and granddaughter.

I am finding it very difficult to find out why she was living with this particular lady and why she was not with a member of her family.  I would appreciate it if anyone knows anything about the Huff's from Wrotham, Kent in 1905/06.  Thanks, Debbie

Thomas Pointer by Carole Morrow

I live in France and managed to visit the Centre for Kentish Studies to do some family history research, but could find no trace of a marriage between Thomas Pointer (1791) and his wife Harriet, also known as Orry, Aura, Orriffe, or Aurith.

They were married c1810/1811 and I would dearly like to discover her surname.  Can anyone help?

Best regards, Carole Morrow

Information regarding Mr. Oliver, the chemist, mentioned in one of the posts... by Charlene Kerr

I am trying to find out if this person was my great grandfather, as his name was John Robert Oliver, and he owned a chemist shop in the early 1900's - I just don't know where.

Is it possible someone might be able to answer this for me, or give me an idea where to start looking?

Leybourne Grange Hospital by Tania Kelvie and Lisa Goslett

Hi there,

We are a couple of artists/film makers who are interested in producing a documentary on Leybourne Grange Hospital and are looking for anyone who had any experiences of working there, who might like to take part in the documentary in some way.

We feel there may be people living or working in the Malling area that may be able to help.

Many thanks, Tania Kelvie

Reply by Richard West

Hi Tania.  I worked at the hospital 1966/72 in the Finance Department.  My late father was employed there all his working life, he worked in the hospital stores.  One of my uncles was a carpenter and his wife a ward sister.  Strangely it was a place where family groups found employment.  In my time the farm manager, his wife, sister in law and son in law all worked there.  Additionally with the influx of Spanish and Italian employees, mainly catering and domestics, several family groups were to be found amongst these people.

Let me know if you wish to have any information, regards Richard West

Reply by Julia Campbell

I worked at LGH from 1973 to 1993 when it closed, several members of my family at different times.  It was a great place to work and we had good fun.  I worked in occupational therapy.

Julia Campbell

Reply by Lindsey Killick

Hi Tania, I trained as a nurse and later worked as a Ward Sister at LGH.  I was there from 1971 until 1979.  I met my husband there when we were student nurses and living in the Nurses Home.  My mother was a Ward Sister at an associated hospital, and various members of my husband's family worked on the domestic side.  It was very much a family affair - everyone was related.

Regards, Lindsey Killick.

West Malling Cinema by Ivan Hawkins

Hi, does any one remember the old cinema in West Malling in the years of 1975 to 1985?

Ivan Hawkins

Reply by Diana Kelly

I remember the cinema that was called the Raymar.  It was owned by the Halkes - Raymond and Grace, and my husband's mother was an usher in there.

Reply by Trudy Dean

Yes Ivan.  I moved to WM with my family in 1979, and we went to the cinema several times before it closed.

Reply by Tracey Akers

My family had a long association with the Halke's at the Raymar.  My aunt, Joan Gardner, was their first usherette.   I did the same job while still at school from 1984-87 and then my younger sister took over the role until it closed in 1989 - I think...

My brother was a projectionist and my mother did the cleaning.  Mr & Mrs Halke were lovely people whom I remember with great affection.  Raymond died a few years ago but Peggy is still going strong and has moved away recently.

Let me know if you need any more information, Tracey Akers (nee Sheppard).

Alexander Colman by Jon Wicken

Hi, I wonder if you may be able to help me.  I am trying to locate the grave of my grandfather, Alexander Colman, who was born in 1884 and who was apparently buried at West Malling in or about 1941.  He became semi-estranged from the family in the 1920s but during WWII the family were informed he had died and was buried in West Malling.

I have been unable to locate his death certificate, which is a mystery, so the only way I can see to find him is in the cemetery registers for West Malling.

Is there anyone who may be able to tell me where he may have been buried and where the records are?  I am told he converted to Catholicism in the 1920s but don't know if that may have affected where he may have been buried.

Any help would be greatly appreciated as I really would like to solve this sixty-eight-year-old riddle.

Many thanks, Jon

House on King Street by Claire Martin

Hi, my friends have just moved into the old house on King Street and I would love to find out more about the history of the house, being one of the oldest in West Malling (it has Norman foundations).

If anyone has any information please let me know,

Thanks, Claire Martin

The Edwards and Meopham Families by Kathy de Vere

I have been tracing our family history and would be grateful for any information on The Edwards and Meopham Families:

John Edwards married Ann ?. There children were:

1. MARY EDWARDS - 09 JUN 1725 at West Malling, Kent

2. JOHN EDWARDS - 19 OCT 1726 at West Malling, Kent.

John married Mary Meopham at West Malling, 28th January 1755.   Their children were also Bapt at the same Church.  John died approx 1810 and was the Church Clerk.

3. WILLIAM EDWARDS - 23 APR 1732 at West Malling, Kent

4. ANNE EDWARDS - 27 FEB 1723 at West Malling, Kent

Thank you, Kathy de Vere

Fred and Ivy Anscombe by Michelle Smith

Is there anyone who is related to or remembers Fred and Ivy Anscombe who lived in West Malling?  Ivy was my grandmother's cousin, and I have a photo of me as a little girl in Ivy's garden in West Malling.

If anyone knows the Anscombes I would love to hear from them.

Michelle Smith

Reply by Diane Brazier

I'm not sure, but there used to be an F.Anscombe who ran the haulage business in East Malling.  Could they be related?

With best wishes, Diane Brazier

Church Fields by Nathan

Hi, I have been looking for some photos of Church Fields from c.1900.  So far I have looked in the library and on this website.  No luck yet.

Would anybody be able to point me in the right direction?

Thanks, Nathan

Reply by Trudy Dean

Hi Nathan.  The Malling Society has over 1,000 photographs of West Malling taken by Freda Barton around the early part of the 20th century so there may be one there of Churchfields.  Contact the Chairman Malling Society, Bernard Tyson, Town Hill Close, West Malling and he may be able to help.  Trudy

John Hunt and Elizabeth Town Hunt by Royce Miller Hunt

My 4th greatgrandfather farmed in West Malling from 1769 til his death in 1813.  Does anyone know how I can find where he resided during that time?   i.e. land tax, rent lists, etc.?  He was John Hunt and Elizabeth Town Hunt.

Any info you can give will be so appreciated.  Thank you, R. M. Hunt, KFHS 12598

Video footage and local education by Terry Nunn

Village Videos is currently making a video history of West Malling that is expected to be on sale later 2008/early 2009.

Any pictures, cine film or video footage of the town, the RAF presence and later air shows would be appreciated.

Also I am trying to find the history of education in the village.  In most places the church provided education until state schools were set up in the 1870s.

Terry Nunn

Aquilino Lucioni by Sue Bradley

My great great great grandfather, Aquilino Lucioni, born 1803 in Italy, died in 1858 in West Malling.  I believe he was living in the High Street.

Can anyone tell me where he is most likely to be buried?  St Mary’s Church was built 1901, so obviously not there.   He was Roman Catholic and married to an English wife, Mary.

Many thanks.

Reply by Trudy Dean

Sue,  St Mary's Church was built in the twelfth century although it has been added to several times since then.   Many of the burials are therefore well before 1901, though the Parish records of burials are far from complete except for the most recent years.

We recently surveyed all the headstones prior to them being repaired to new safety standards so it may be that we can trace your relatives if you give us the details you have.  Trudy

Looking for Information on U.S. Navy Planes at NAF West Malling 1963-5 by Frank Kluge

I was fortunate to serve with USN at West Malling.  We had six planes attached there and I am looking for anyone who might have photos or information about them.  We had 2 C-117D planes # 12435 and 12437, 3 C-45 or SNB twin tail Beechcraft # 224, 227 and 2xx as well as a C-131 Convair used for the Admiral.  We used to shine it by hand.

I have located C-117D and want to get information on the airops at the base.  Any old photos of the hangar and firehouse located next to it would sure be welcomed.

Frank Kluge

Reply by Larry Waters

Dear Mr. Kluge, I read with interest your E-mail about the aircraft flown from West Malling during the time it was occupied by the US Navy.   This is a particular period that I am also interested in, as it is a time I remember as a boy, when I would get excited every time I heard an aircraft approaching to land.  They would fly very low over our roof on the approach, I always felt that I could reach up and almost touch them.  Great memories indeed.

The main reason that I am replying to you is because I have in my possession some very good colour slides of aircraft at West Malling at this time.  The aircraft types are varied including Neptunes, C-121,Albatross, Expediter, Hercules, Convairs etc.   If we could work something out, I would gladly share them with you.  Please get in touch if interested.

Yours Sincerely, Larry Waters.

BELL, EMERY, WILSON Families by VJ King Sr

Hello, there!

Recently I discovered that my great grandmother, Dorcas EMERY was born 1852 in Malling, Kent, and am hopeful one of your readers might be able to throw further light on her and/or any member of the (BELL, EMERY, WILSON) families.

As much as I can piece together all of the available data, the following picture/time line emerges:

1. 1873 - Dorcas EMERY married Harold William BELL (b.1856 Basford Bleacher, Nottingham) and, in 1877, gave birth to a daughter, Elizabeth Mary BELL.

2. 1877-1881 - Harold William BELL dies and daughter Elizabeth Mary BELL is 'fostered' by her Uncle, Edgar John WILSON (b. abt 1850, Mereworth) and his wife, (Elizabeth's Aunt) Fanny Francis WILSON (nee BELL, b. abt 1851, Mereworth)

3. 1881 - UK Census - Dorcas BELL, now widowed, is listed among 90 or so others as residing at the "Mailing Union Workhouse" West Malling, Kent, UK ... an "Inmate" ... "Widower" ... "29"

4. 1881 - UK Census - Dorcas BELL's daughter Elizabeth Mary BELL is listed as "Age 4 - Step Dau" in the household of Edgar J WILSON's Family - "Lowthorpe, York"

5. 1886 - Australian Immigration Records list one "Elizabeth BELL" ... "Age 8" entering Australia in September 1886 (no other accompanying passenger details) on board the "Lord Raglan".

6. 1898 - Elizabeth Mary BELL "Age 21" marries Richard HOCKING (1871-1946)

7. 1900-1909 - Elizabeth Mary HOCKING bears 5 children, one of whom is my father, Alfred Edward HOCKING (1900-1981)

8. 1938 - Elizabeth Mary BELL dies Bendigo, NSW Australia

Thank you for the opportunity made available through your website pages to communicate my enquiry.  Any information or directional advice would be much appreciated, VJ

Kate Reed Wood by John Shaw

Could you help me?  I'm in Nottingham but visited friends in West Malling a fortnight ago.  The conversation turned to `Kate Reed Wood'.  I wonder who Kate Reed was and why she has a wood named after her?  Or is it a corruption of an old name?

I'd be extremely grateful if you can help.  Much research so far - no luck !

Thank you, John Shaw

Bus crash in West Malling by Bob Simmons

Hi.  It may be of interest to someone - I still remember it anyway.  One evening at about ten to six in 1955 I think it was, I was driving a Maidstone & District double deck bus from Gillingham to Maidstone on service 20.  I had parked it opposite the Bull pub and popped over for a smoke when the handbrake failed.  The bus rolled across the road and crashed head-on into the pub causing great damage.

Pubs weren't supposed to open until six in those days, but the bar was littered with pints with half an inch of dust on the top.  This was the biggest event in West Malling for a long time.

I never did find out if the Kent Messenger, who attended, did as they said they would, and gave the landlord a large framed souvenir picture.

Looking for John Tedham by Heidi Currie

Hi there, I actually lived in East Malling but a friend of my brothers, John Tedham, lived in West Malling.  In fact I think his dad ran one of the pubs on the High Street.  Anyway, I live in Canada now and I lost my mum Elizabeth Jennings 2 years ago.  John was a very close friend to the family and he even came to Canada for my wedding 19 years ago.

If anyone knows how to get in touch with him I would like to pass along our news.

Thank you

Warren/Warrener and Absalom Families by Myra Warrener

I have found that my family tree goes to Offham and Ryarsh amongst other nearby places.  My great-great grandmother was Jane Warrener, who was baptised in Ryarsh 23 March 1823.  Her son, Thomas Warrener was born 16 August 1841 in Offham.  She didn't marry the father.  Her parents were William Warrener/Warren and Sarah Absalom.  Sarah Warren, Michael, Ann and Charles Warrener were all family members and children of William and Sarah (Absalom) Warren/Warrener.  The name is often spelt differently.

William and Sarah were married 30 April 1814 at Ightham but I have no date of birth for William.  Sarah was born 8 October 1792 and baptised 3 June 1793 at W Malling.  Her parents were John and Flora Absalom/Absolom

If anyone has any more information on the Warren/Warreners or Absaloms I would be very grateful to hear from them, thanks.

Myra Warrener

Navy Air Squadron 1959 to 1961 by Leigh Rice Darrow

My father was stationed at the base.   My parents Ted and Muriel Rice and I and my three sisters have wonderful memories of life there.  It was a quiet country area at the time.  We lived in housing at the base.   My parents have since died, but while they lived they talked about West Malling frequently.   It was there that we learned about English life and friendly English people.   While we played all over the old airport we found buildings that had bullet holes in the walls.  At least, that is what we were told.  We four girls went to English schools.

If anyone remembers us please email me at croneleigh@aol.com.    My sisters were Valli, Leslie and Julie.

Sincerely,  Leigh Rice Darrow

Reply by Michael Fitzsimmons

Leigh, I was living at what we called Blackebush housing in the early 60’s. I was in 5th and 6th grades at Greenham Common Air Base.  I too spent endless hours exploring the old military buildings at what we called staravia.  I’m sure it was the name of the salvage company that was demoing the base.

I was an altar boy at the local Catholic church in Yately.  I think it was a convent and the priest was an elderly man.  Does any of this sound familiar?

Randall Family by Adrienne Bamberger

Hello to you.  We are researching our family and have got back as far as Oliver Randall (b1785) who married Ann Pledge (b1795) in West Malling. They had many children including:

• William  b1823
• Emma  b1827
• Sarah  b1830
• Harriot  b1832
• George  b1840
• Elizabeth  b1835

I have found information which shows that William emigrated to Australia and George was a convict.  The one I am really interested in is Elizabeth, who married Francis Louis Bamberger in 1855.  We have found the usual information on Ancestry etc but I was just wondering if there are any descendants left of the other Randall children in the area.

I know Randall is a common name in Kent but fingers crossed someone may help!

Thank you, Adrienne Bamberger

Startled Saint pub sign by John Osborne

Hi There.  I am in the process of writing my Memoirs and I am stuck for the time I was stationed at RAF West Malling on 85 Sqdn from 1951/53, regarding the Startled Saint pub.

If you could put my request on your web site to see if any readers have a print of the pub sign I might copy it would be a great help.

I have managed to get photos of West Malling station crest and also 85 Sqdn badge and some aerial shots of the airfield.  So if I was able to get a print of the Pub sign it would make that part of my memoirs look better with a picture instead of just writing about a place.

Thanking you in anticipation, regards, John Osborne.

Reply by Nicola Mairs

Hi John, were you born 1927 in Ryde, Isle Of Wight?  If so please please please contact me as you could be my great uncle!!

Nicola Mairs, Grandaughter Of David Osborne

Reply by Jack Field

Here is a copy of a Whitbread Inn sign that is printed on a sheet of thin aluminium about the size of a cigarette card. Most Whitbread pubs were depicted.

Clay Brick Making by James Edwards

I found a clay brick with Hodges W Malling written in the frog!  Does anyone know of any brick making in the area?  Apparently they made bricks in Ryarsh woods in the old days!

Thanks, James Edwards, Ryarsh.

Reply by Carole

Hi James,  I live in Brickfields West Malling.  I bought my house from Graeme Hodges, who's great grand father made the bricks which built my house.  I think the brickyard was somewhere up Brickfields.

Hope this helps.

Reply by Geoff Burr

The brickfield was on the site of what is now 25 & 26 Brickfields comprising formerly a cherry orchard with a pair of semis 25&26).  I was born in 1947 at 25, then known as "Espérance". When digging the vegetable plots such items as broken bricks, clay pipes and horseshoes were found.

West Malling Airbase, 1961-63 by Tom Seale

My dad was stationed at West Malling from 1961-63.  He was a Navy pilot and the Legal Officer for the base.  I attended a private school (Cedars) in Maidstone for the fourth and fifth forms.  We lived on the air base.  My wife and I are planning a trip to West Malling in June, 2008.  We would love to hear about the places we should visit.  I always remember West Malling because it was such a safe place to have grown up.  Mom and dad would let us ride bikes all over the country as 10 and 11 year olds.  Please email me if you have any suggestions on sites we should visit in June .

Thanks, Tom Seale

Reply by Tim Baldock (shop owner and Chamber of Commerce)

When you arrive in West Malling pop into the SKI STORE.  I can point out many local places of interest and help out with many of your memories as I was about as a school kid in W Malling and the base the same time as you.   You will find local folks are eager to tell you all about the area.

RAF-NAF West Malling Memories by Gene Hite

I was based at RAF West Malling in FASRON Special 200 from May 1960 to May 1961.  The first part of my tour was in Blackbushe Aerodrome.  Our communications office was located in a bunker from WWII.  I found a large room with a big map of Europe on it.  Must have been the War Room.

I loved the people and town of West Malling.  They were always polite and friendly to me.  I believe most of the base is gone.  A pity.  I wanted to visit someday.  I've noticed a few other mates who were there about the same time I was.  I'd like to hear from you!.

Thanks, Gene Hite RMC USN Ret

Reply by Denise M. Vasfaret

When I was a young girl, my father was in the U.S. Navy, Seabees stationed at RAF West Malling.  We lived on the RAF enlisted housing from 1961 - 1964, when we returned to the U.S. on the U.S.S. Darby.  My two brothers and I went to St. Francis Catholic School in Maidstone and some day I hope to return for a visit.

I remember the countryside being very beautiful and have fond memories of a peaceful existance on base where we were visited daily by the local milk man and green grocer.  At that time our housing was heated by coal and our water heater by coke.   We did not have any refrigeration the first year we lived in housing, and bought our perishables daily.

My maiden name was Denise Arnold and my father was William H. Hauger.  Sincerely, Denise M. Vasfaret

St Benedict House and Doris Marriott (nee Plume) and Tom Marriott by Jes Law

Over 20 years ago, my Grandmother and Grandfather lived in the house St Benedicts (St Ben's as we called it) on Swan Street.   Always a bustling happy place to be.   On holidays we would attend the local playgroup, and often go over to the Abbey to help out, or the church (opposite).

I am looking for people who may have known my Grandparents, and also for some information about the house.   I know it is Grade II listed and recently have managed to pop down and have a look at the old place (unfortunately it seems as though it has been stripped of its glorious charm and character to suit the purposes of modern living.  What a shame!)

Sadly, both my Grandparents have passed away (and are sadly missed), but I am keen to find out a little more about my past (I am 24).    I also have spent holidays at Portal House, Swan Street, which was the home of my auntie for quite some time.  Thank you.

Stitchman & Wallace Families by Chris Bagley

I am looking for descendants of William & Ella Auguster Wallace (STITCHMAN).  They where married December 1910 and had at least 2 children, William H Wallace b. September 1915 and  Charles J Wallace b. December 1919.    Ella was also the mother of Ada Elizabeth Stitchman b.1908, (father not known), my wife's mother.

The whole family lived in and around West Malling from about 1853 to the last known date of 1919.  Does anybody know of descendants of William H and Charles J?  It's possible they are still alive.  Please get in contact if you can help.  Thanks, Chris. Bagley

Reply by David Allchin

There was a Miss or Mrs Stichman who lived at no. 1 Chapel Street, Ryarsh, when I was a child in the 1950s.

Looking for Keith Stanton by Lynda Fuller

I have fond memories of West Malling.  I had to leave there when I was 17 years old and come to New Zealand in 1973, and I'm still here.

I lived at 119 Norman Road.  I have just found Jackie Hart [nee Butcher] who lived in the same road, and Beverly Payne in Ryarsh Lane .  Sadly to say I had to leave behind the lovely young man I was engaged to.  I worked with him at Reed International Paper Mill at Aylesford, and his name was Keith Stanton or Standen.   He would be in his mid 50s now.  I have been looking for him for 34 years now.   Can anyone help please?  His mother's name was Peggy.

In those  days there were about 5 pubs in the village, Five Pointed Star, The Bear, The Swan, The Fountain at Offham Road and I can't remember the one down the side street off the top of Norman road, and one in the High Street, opposite Swan Street I think.   My school days were Blacklands and Clare Park Secondary School.

If anyone knows the whereabouts of Keith Stanton please can you email me on merger5imaco@xtra.co.nz  or  farrierimaco@hotmail.com .  Thank you, Lynda Fuller.

Workhouse Burials

Could you please tell me where the people who died at the Malling Union workhouse are buried?

Reply by Nick Russell

If you were able to visit the Centre for Kentish Studies at Maidstone they have the original records for the Malling Union Workhouse.   I recently looked at those for my Great Grandfather Augustus Tidmarsh and was able to see his date of admittance (1922), date of discharge (dead) first and last meal, creed, parish admitted from, and where buried - in his case St Marys West Malling.   If you are some distance away I think the staff may be able to complete limited research on your behalf - worth a try perhaps.

Nick Russell

The Hermitage by Owen Taylor

Somewhere I read (or heard) that during WW II The Hermitage, More Park, was home to the Sergeants' Mess of a RAF Bomb Disposal Squadron.   Can anyone confirm (or deny!) this?   I am doing some research (for NDFAS) on the families whose memorials are in the Parish Church; the Luck family have two memorials, and Thomas Luck built the Hermitage.  Thank you.  Owen Taylor

The Burville, Buck and Rogers families by Don Burville

I came across the site looking for West Malling.  Arthur John Burville was born 13 Feb 1882 at Wickings Yard RSD.  His parents were George Burville born 1848 in Loose and his wife Amelia Burville (nee Buck) born 1848 at no 7 George Street Maidstone.   Her father, George Buck, was a bootmaker and married his wife Maria Anne Rogers in 1843.

If these people sound familiar to any reader I would love to hear from them on don.burville@yahoo.com.au or PO Box 94, Tyabb, Victoria, Australia 3913.

The Wilson, Large and Reynolds families by Shirley Turner (nee Wilson)

I have just discovered your wonderful website and have enjoyed reading the "Memories of West Malliing".   I am researching my family history and wonder if anyone has memories of my family.  I lived in King Street in the early 1950s as a small child and have a few memories of going up the alleyway to a sweet shop on the High Street and a toy shop further along.  I also worked in Abnett's Fish and Chip shop in the 1960s.

My relatives were the Large family and the Reynolds who lived in King Street/Back Street.  I remember the swing in the back garden of my Aunt Lou (Reynolds).  My G/G/grandfather was Richard Large and my G/grandfather George Henry Large 1867-1958.   My grandmother Alice Rose Read(nee Large) lived in Ewell Avenue.

Can anyone help with more information?

Update:  Just to let you know that I have had some replies which have proved very interesting and useful.  One was from a family member that I have never met.  Keep up the good work with your site!

West Malling memories by Keith Crittenden

I lived with my mother and grandparents in King (Back) Street, opposite the old Laundry, West Malling from 1939 - 1947.  Neighbours were the Randalls, the Reynolds, and Larges.  My father was away in the RAF.  My grandparents were Charles and Emily Taylor (nee Usmar).  Emily's parents were George and Mary Usmar, he was a Clock & Watchmaker in the High Street.  Charles Taylor was a Fireman at West Malling Fire Station (photograph attached).

I attended Leybourne CofE Primary School, and can remember friends, Brian Curd, whose mother had the Tea Shop in the High Street, Stuart Weston, whose parents had a Bakers Shop, Keith Kemsley from Eden Farm and William and Richard Pearce from Comp Farm.

I remember going to the Saturday morning film show at the Babminton Hall, playing on the Cricket Meadow and watching out for the Golden Arrow train to speed by.  I remember having miniature Hovis loaves for a 1d. from Foremans Bakery (Ann Usmar married Charles Foreman) the business was in the hands of Edward Foreman whom I knew as Uncle Ted.  Next to the Bear PH was Newmans Greengrocers, my greataunt Ann Usmar married Arthur Newman, the shop was run by Roy Newman in those days.

I have many happy memories of my early years in West Malling.  If anyone remembers me or recognises any names mentioned I should be pleased to hear from them.

Update:  Just a note to let you know that my memories of West Malling and the Fire Appliance photo (above) have produced two interesting responses, one of which has put me in touch with an Aunt I had not seen for nearly 60 years.  PS I found the attached photo of West Malling , which may be of interest.

Reply by Diana Kelly

I know Keith Kemsley.  My husband worked for him/his father for many years.  He has a sister Ann.  I'm told your picture shows what was the co-op among others.

RAF West Malling by Bud Nolting

I was 19 years old when I finished Radioman school in San Diego and got orders to RAF West Malling.  I believe that was around November of 1963.  I have wonderful memories of the short time I was on the base.   The base was closed six months after I arrived and I was transferred to Navcomunit London.   I remember being quite overwhelmed by the history of the RAF West Malling base.    I worked in a bunker that was actually used as a "war room" during the war.   I hope to go back to West Malling and revisit a place that I will never forget.   Marvin D. (Bud) Nolting

The Skinner Family by Helen

I have discovered that my ancestors originated in your lovely town and there is even reference to ‘burial in the family vault’.  I have copies of the tithe award of 1840 showing owner/occupation by Skinners but wonder whether anyone still living there shares a common great great great grandfather or remoter relation?  I think my branch of the family (from John Skinner/Robert Skinner) eventually ended up in Woolwich,  possibly in the 1840s and 1850s.

Update:  I have made a wonderful connection thanks to your website!  A lady who lives quite near me has done extensive research into the Skinner family history and she has provided lots of info I did not know previously.  We are planning to come to the town in the summer for a real ‘family outing’ !!   Thanks again for your part in fitting the jigsaw together.  Regards, Helen.

The Woods or Woodens of The Laurels by Shona Maloney  (Australia)

My great grandfather, Harry Baker received many postcards (one dated 1921) from relatives, a family by the name of Woods or Wooden who lived at "The Laurels" West Malling.  Em Woods or Wooden, Charlie and Ted.  Can anyone help me with information about this family?

RAF West Malling WW2 pub research by Jeremy Swanson  (Canada)

Good day, I am in research for a very important family related project and it involves (believe it or not) trying to find out what pubs were around and popular with the non-commissioned ranks at RAF West Malling during WW2-especially ground crew-aircraft mechanics.

I need to know not only which ones were used but also which ones were the most popular and any other WW2 related info on them I can get.  An important note is that I am particularly keen on finding out if any of them survive today as pubs - or in any other form.  Can anyone help me?

Looking for Old Play Mates by David Underwood

My name is David Underwood.  I grew up in West Malling.  I lived with my grand parents, their name was Norris.  First in a shop in the High St  which is now the assembly rooms but in1943 when I was born it was my grand fathers hardware shop.  On his retirement we moved to a cottage in Swan St on the corner of Police Station Rd, opposite the Kent Arms, now the Lobster Pot

I often go back to West Malling but hardly see any one I know, so does any one remember me or can tell me what happened to Brian Fisher, Brian Large, David and Peter Holmes, Tony Foreman and Billy Blake, all my old play mates?   I lost touch after joining the merchant navy then the army.

Reply by Diana Kelly

I think the Holmes brothers live/lived in Norman Road?

The Bardens of West Malling by Sheila, John & Family

I am hoping someone can help me.  In the 1851 census my g/g/grandparents Edward & Mary Barden ( nee Daw) were living in Swan Street,West Malling with their children, one of them being my g/grandfather.  I am looking to find out if they were married in West Malling approx 1835  & if any other Bardens remain in the town.  I think their son Edward may have died as a youngster, was buried in West Malling.  I am hoping to find some dates & places to go forward.

Hope someone can help me.  Thanking you, Sheila.

George William Banham by Martin Banham

My great-grandfather, George William Banham, died in West Malling in 1881, aged 26.  He was described as a 'Scripture Reader'.  My recollection as a child was that my father showed me a newspaper clipping containing obituary comments on George William, referring to his work with young people and - possibly! - a cocoa house.  Family lore is that he wished to train as a missionary.   My grandfather was born at Town Hill, West Malling, on 13th October 1878.

Can anyone offer any links ?

John George Cruwys by Judith Bowen (nee Cruwys)

My ancestor, John George Cruwys, was born on 12/11/1824, and today I learned that he was born in Town Malling!  What a lovely surprise your website turn out to be!!  The photographs are just beautiful and I am looking forward to visiting your town on my next visit to England.

I have reached a stage in my research where further progress has become very difficult because his birth is prior to 1837.  Can any local family history historian be able to help me?

The Colegate Family by Stephen Mills

I wonder if anybody can help with research into my family history concerning the Colegate family from the West Malling area.  My great-grandmother was Harriet Colegate who was born in East Malling in 1875.  She moved to Tunbridge Wells in the late 1890s and married James Henry Richardson there in 1902.  She died in 1963.

Harriet’s parents were Thomas and Harriet Colegate.  Thomas was born in West Malling in 1842 and Harriet in East Malling in 1844.  As well as their daughter Harriett, they had six other children – Elizabeth, Richard, Alice, Ellen, George and Allen – born between 1867 and 1887 in West and East Malling.  Thomas was an agricultural labourer and later a gardener and his family lived at various addresses in the West Malling area.   According to the 1881 census, they were living at Springetts Hill, East Malling, but by the 1891 census had moved to 81 Alma Road, West Malling.  I think Thomas died in 1894 and his wife Harriett in 1899.

I believe Thomas’s parents were William and Elizabeth Colegate.  William was born in 1819 in Leybourne and Elizabeth in Mereworth in 1817.  They had eight children, including Thomas – the others were Ellen, Harriett, Ann, William, Henry, Alice and John.  They were born between 1840 and 1859, all in West Malling, apart from the eldest Ellen, who was born in Mereworth.  William was an agricultural labourer like his son and lived at various addresses in West Malling.   In 1851 the family was living at 15 Offham Road and by 1861 had moved to 183 Brick Yard.  I believe William died in 1898.

I would be particularly interested to find out the maiden names of Thomas and William’s wives and when and where the couples married.

I attach a picture of my great-grandmother Harriet which sparked my interest in my family history.  We believe it was taken around 1900.

Alfred Harrington by Kevin Harrington

My great grandfather, Alfred Harrington, used to own and run the grocer's, Harrington's, in West Malling.

Alfred Harrington was a shopkeeper and grocer with a shop and house at 23 High Street, West Malling, Kent.    I believe the shop, named Harrington's, was in the High Street from the 1890s to at least the 1920s.

Alfred Harrington was married to Rhoda (b1866 in Tiverton, Devon) and they had three (possibly four) children:  Stanley Chanin Harrington (b1893 in Burgess Hill, Sussex), Gordon R Harrington (b1896 in Addlestone, Surrey) and Alfred J Harrington (b1898 in West Malling, Kent).

Alfred J Harrington subsequently married Leonora Sales (daughter of Richard Sales).   They had one child, Donald Alfred Harrington (b1923 West Malling, Kent).   Donald Alfred Harrington was my father.

I am keen to trace any information that would help me develop my family history.  If anyone with any information could email me it would be most appreciated.

Reply by Tim Baldock

I am sure you have had replies to your queries about the Harringtons.   The Harringtons were friendly with the Baldocks who were and still are fellow shop owners in W Malling.   Harringtons traded till the late 50s.  I remember buying sweets screwed up in waxed paper and large boxes and tins full of biscuits and fruit.

Tales of the unexpected by Martyn de Young

Age Concern Malling have recently taken over one of the shops in the small parade at the junction of Norman Road and High Street.   I remember one of the shops in the parade being the location (as an antique shop) of an episode of Roald Dahl’s “Tales of the Unexpected” in about 1979/80.   I think it was the same shop we are now using, but does anyone know if that can be confirmed, and what episode it was ( I don’t remember the story – just the shop front!)?

Reply by Diana Kelly

Pataky's antique shop was indeed used in a Roald Dahl episode - but sadly try as I might I can't recall the episode.

Caroline Saunders by Roy Bailey

I am researching my family's history, and the World War I records of one of my ancestors, Harry Bailey of Burnham (Bucks), indicate that he was married at Malling Register Office on 17 Feb 1915 to Caroline Saunders of 14 Church Fields, West Malling.  The bride's father was Thomas Saunders (deceased) who had been a bricklayer's labourer.  Caroline was a general domestic servant and Harry a chauffeur (domestic).

I would be interested to find out the identity of the family for whom Caroline was working, and any other relevant information, and would be grateful for any local assistance.

William Walter Driver by Sue Sibley

William Walter Driver was my grandfather and grew up in the West Malling area in the late 1800s'.  He lived at the five bells St Leonard street with his grandparents Walter and Mary Driver.

Walter and Mary's children were a son, also named Walter, and daughters Eliza (I think Eliza married a Thomas Morgan) Emily, Harriet and Mary.

My grandfather, William , married my grandmother -Caroline May Eliza Cradduck in the 1920's and they lived in the Snodland area.  They had two children, Walter and Dora( my mother).  My grandfather died when my mother was very young and and my grandmother died when Dora was only 9.

I am hoping that maybe any descendants of Walter and Mary's children may have knowledge of my grandfather and maybe even a picture of him?   If so please e-mail me.  Thank you.

Air Navigation Office by Bob Smith

I was attached to the Air Navigation Office at the United States Naval Air Facility on The RAF base at West Malling from September 1963 through July 1964.

I have many fond memories of my short tour of duty there.  I developed a respect and love for the English people that endures to this day.  You treated us "Yanks" extremely good.  This was my best tour of duty in my 21 years in the Navy.

Thank you,  Bob Smith, Senior Chief Petty Officer, U. S. Navy (Retired)  P.S. I am not the same Bob Smith that previously corresponded with you.

Gower family by Mr Gower

I wonder if anyone has any information on my grandparents, who lived at 75, The Bank, West Malling , surname Gower ?

Reply by Karen Brown

Hello there.  I am very curious to know who you are, as they were also my grandparents so you are obviously one of my cousins.  regards, Karen

Reply by Maureen Tigwell

Hi.  Just received your details from my cousin in Australia, Karen Gower (Brown now) who I believe has also contacted you.

My husband's grandparents were Leopold Gower and Alice Ellen Gower (nee Harris) who lived at 75 The Bank, BIRLING (Not actually West Malling) - the house is still there at The Bank, Birling, but has been renamed as 69 Ryarsh Road, Birling.

Would love to know your connection, as you must be one of my husband's cousins???  My husband is Bruce Tigwell, son of Leopold & Alice Gower's daughter Alice Caroline, who is now 85 years old and living in Basingstoke, Hants.

Are you on Genes ReUnited - we have put our family tree on there.

Looking forward to hearing from you, Bruce & Maureen

Reply by Douglas Rees

You might be interested that I used to live next door to a Geof Gower who still lives in the village, Douglas

Sir Robert Brett by Robin Phillips

I am researching my family history (from Australia) and find a note that my Gtx10 Uncle was Sir Robert Brett of Malling Abbey and buried at West Malling.  He was "Gentleman Usher of the Privy Chamber to King James" and died in 1620.

If anyone can give me any information on Sir Robert, or possibly confirm if he is buried at West Malling, I would be most grateful.

Update: Many thanks for your action as Phyll Stevens has replied giving me all the information I need on Sir Robert, who was buried inside the church at West Malling.  Robin Stevens is sending me a photo of the tomb next week.  So this is just to let you know that your system works !!   Thank you very much, Best Regards, Robin Phillips.

King Hill Hostel by Carole Dalton

I am trying to find out about "King Hill" hostel, as my late mother was a resident there in 1951.  I believe that in 1952 it was ruled that residents could only stay for a maximum period of three months.   At this time my mother had a 15 month old son, who she put up for a "private fostering".  On his birth certificate it states his address as King Hill, West Malling.

If anyone knows anything about King Hill, no matter how trivial, I'd love to know.

Reply by Trudy Dean

Hi Carole.  The King Hill hostel was the site of the West Malling workhouse in earlier times, and features as the Spike in a book by George Orwell.   In his day it was the place where gentlemen of the road would come to sleep at night, and they buried their valuables under the hedges of King Hill (road) before going inside in case they were robbed by fellow room mates!

When I came to West Malling in the 1970s the site was being used by homeless families waiting to be housed in council accommodation, and I guess this may have been why your relatives were there.  Some families were housed there because they had been evicted from their homes, usually because they had defaulted on the rent.  They were I believe housed there until the arrears had been paid, and were then rehoused if possible.

I believe the huts where the families lived were formerly built to be used by personnel on the Airfield nearby, and they were of wooden construction, comprising several families' accommodation in each hut.  There was a brick built house which housed the warden, and I was told there was also an underground hospital there, built to take casualties from abroad who were expected to be flown in to the airfield from battlefields around the world.

The site was cleared and is now a small close of four houses called Orwell Spike.

Regards, Trudy

Reply by Nick Russell

Carole, I was a Police Officer at West Malling in 1980-1. I only visited the King Hill Hostel once - a young girl was in labour and there was a chance I was going to have to deliver the baby.  The hostel was a dreary red brick building down a reasonably long drive off the A228.   I understood that it was a kind of a short term stay place for young women only.  In any event the ambulance arrived before the big event and I went back to the station for a cup of tea.  I was told later that the baby was going to be named after me - because I was so nice ...

Best wishes, Nick Russell

Douce's Manor, 1990 by Paul Brown

I was very interested to view your website, which I found in a search at Google for Douce's Manor.  My interest in West Malling and the manor house goes back to 1990 when I worked as a training officer for Commercial Union.  At the time the Company owned Douce's manor and used it as a training centre for our staff.  My job was to run week-long residential training courses for our sales people and I have many happy memories of working in such a splendid environment

One of my most pleasant duties was showing new employees around the establishment and of particular interest was the 'Twitch Cellar' as it was known to us.  The story I had been told (and subsequently recounted to all our new sales people during my 'tour') was that the signatures on the ceiling were written by fighter pilots who held a candle between their toes.  I have always thought this would have been a difficult task and I would be very interested if the story could be verified.  My main interest however is in establishing the current ownership of the house.  I now live in Lincolnshire but I'm planning a trip down to Kent and would very much like to see the house again if this is possible.  I would be grateful for any information you could give me about it and I look forward very much to hearing from you.

Reply by Ron Lee

Hi Paul, saw your entry on the West Malling website.  I did my National Service at RAF West Malling, little expecting to spend my last 17 years with CU working at Douces Manor.  I went there soon after it opened in 1978, my evening CII class teaching at Wolverhampton having marked me as a possible tutor.  I subsequently swapped to providing written training material, explaining both the new computer system and trying to simplify complicated policy wordings.  I retired in 1995 and worked part time for a further 16 months on a special project (that was subsequently scrapped!).

The Manor was closed soon after the Norwich Union merger (takeover?) and has stood empty ever since.  The main building is currently being converted to luxury apartments, and upmarket houses have been built in the old walled garden.  One of these was in last week's local paper for £860,000.  The Twitch Inn is being preserved and the local History Society will have access to it via the outside door.  Who was the manager when you worked there? Reg Kemp went in the mass clearout in 1983 and was replaced by firstly John McBrien and then Ray Thorn.  Hope this is of some interest, Ron Lee.

Reply by Carole

Hi Paul.  I live in West Malling and Douces Manor has now been developed into a number of prestigious dwellings.

Reply by Mary Spencer

Hello - Just found with great interest this website. Old and very new to computers.

Just to let you know that Douce's Manor has now been sold to a Builder who has converted the Main House to luxury apartments, and at the back new houses.  Price from £500k plus.  At the moment (30/05/08) the Agents are still selling them, so it would your golden opportunity to see the changes that are taking place.

My friend Molly Potts worked for many years at Douce's Manor.  The Builders were not allowed to have the Cellar, and I understand that it will eventually be a Museum. Before the Builders moved in it was being vandalised, so at least it is now looking so much better.

Hope this will be of some interest to you.  Mary.

Reply by Trudy Dean

Hi Paul.  The Twitch Inn has been leased from Beechcroft, the developers of Douces Manor, as a Heritage Centre for West Malling.  It is leased by the Parish Council, of which I am the Chairman, and the centre will be run by the Malling Society.  It will open to the public for the first time on Remembrance Sunday Nov 8th 2008 between 10am and 5pm.  It will not be equipped yet, as the builders have only just left the site and haven't finished wiring the lights yet, but you will be able to see the cartoons and signatures which have been restored and protected as a condition of the development.

Regards, Trudy

Memories of Annie Couchman 1897 - 1990.   An introduction by her great-nephew, Chris Longdon,  Chippenham, Wiltshire.

On June 2004, my wife and I were on our way from Chippenham in Wiltshire to Dover to catch the ferry at the start of a touring holiday in Germany.  As we were passing close to West Malling, we stopped off at the cemetery to place some flowers on the grave of Annie Couchman who was my maternal great aunt.  More...

West Malling, 1965 to 1989 by Graham Warner

I remember fondly life in West Malling, during the period 1965 to 1989.  My grandad Jim Warner ran the greengrocer shop on the A20 next to what was then the telephone exchange.  We lived in a large house opposite the shop called Villa Suecia (after a place my grandad stayed in Spain).  The land all 10 acres known as brickfields was where my grandad grew all the produce to sell in the shop, from apples to pears, plums, strawberries to potatoes he grew the lot.  He used to tell me stories of him cycling up to R.A.F West Malling on his bike with an ice cream churn on the front during the hot summer months of World War II to sell ice creams to all the pilots and crew stationed there.  More....

Remember Margaret Crowhurst or Margaret Shirley? by Gillian [Boughton] Crowther

I used to live at 8 Churchfields in the 1950's.   Through the years after moving to Canada we have lost touch with old friends, I'd like to locate Margaret Crowhurst, or Margaret Shirley, both old school friends.   Thanks  Gillian [Boughton]  Crowther.

Update: A cousin phoned to tell me about the message from Gillian Crowther nee Boughton.  I have made contact with her and we have started to catch up on the missing years.  Many thanks...Margaret Crowhurst

US Navy Squadron by Bob Smith, US Navy retired

In 1959-1961 I was in the US Navy Squadron Fasron Special 200.  We moved our squadron from Blackbushe Aerodrome near Camberley, Surrey to share the RAF Squadron at West Malling.  West Malling was a quaint little village then and the yanks were readily accepted.   I have always wanted to make a trip back to see what changes had taken place, but somehow never made it.

I am retired now and have the time, but health problems make it still a far reach.   I would like to extend my thanks to all of the people that resided in  West Malling at the time I was there for making my stay so enjoyable.

Reply by Bobby Amos

I was stationed at US NAVY FASRON 200 at Blackbushe.  My wife, 3 children and I lived in Camberley Surrey from 1957 -1959.  We had a son born there in 1957.  Some of our close English friends were the Butlers and their three children Georgina, Bobby and Margaret who lived near Woking, Surrey.  We have many happy memories of those days, and even the Queen passing by our house and waving to all of the people on the route.

I would like to hear from anyone who remembers those days.

Bob Amos

Remember Elizabeth Mary Joan Ballard? by Carol Ballard

I am looking for Auntie Betty (Daughter of Henry Edward Ballard & Queenie Janet Victoria Ballard (formerly Still))

Elizabeth Mary Joan Ballard was born on the 5th October 1925 at 9 Council Cottages, near West Malling, near Maidstone.  Elizabeth, also know as "Betty" was in the Maidstone Corps, Canterbury Division, in 1942.  She married David John Clarke of 31 School Lane, Eaton Bray, Dunstable on the 8th September 1951 at All Saint's Church Maidstone.  They made home at "Rose Cottage" 9 Padsole Lane, Maidstone.   Their daughter Janet Mary Ann was born at the cottage on the 14th July 1953.

My father Leonard Edward Ballard lost contact with his family when he emigrated to the USA in the early 1960s.  I've never met my Auntie Betty and would love to hear from her or anyone who remembers her.  These photographs from 1942 and 1951 may prompt some memories.

Update: Auntie Betty now found.

Church Fields by Chris Lane

I used to live at number 9 Church Fields back in the 80's.  I used to go to school at More Park and was there when the strong winds almost blew over a tree on to our class room.  My mum used to do a sort of village fete which the whole town got involved in, everyone helped each other.  I have vague images of the airbase.  Haven't been there for a while but I will soon.   I still wonder if my friend Jack Budgin lives there still.   I will always have fond memories of West Malling.

Malling Memories by Richard West

I used to live in Alma Road at its junction with Fartherwell Avenue.   Strangely the house started life as number 81 but sometime during the 1960’s it was renumbered to 33.  My late parents moved into what was a brand new house in November 1948 when I was about six/seven weeks old.  More...

Update: I have read the above by Richard.  I worked at Leybourne Grange Hospital at the same time as Richard and would like to make contact with him.  Many thanks, David (New Zealand)

Pre-war Memories by Skip Topley

We lived in West Malling.  First I remember is a garage on the A20 on the right going to Sevenoaks,  then on the High Street my dad opened the fish and chip shop and green grocers on the High Street between the pub and the old fire station.  My dad drove the fire engine during the war.  After the war we moved to Deal  then to Folkestone.

The Town of West Malling in the 1920's by Phyllis Stevens (nee Emmerson)

West Malling, a town I have loved and always thought of as home.  I have decided to write my memories of the town when I was about 10 years old in 1925.  I am now 89 years of age and in my memory I can still see myself emerging through the iron posts at the bottom of the path that came down from St Mary’s Church door to the top of the High Street - alas the posts have now gone and one can get a car through.  More...