The Park.

The pedestrian crossing outside of Christ Church Erith that had been out of use for two weeks after a car mounted the pavement and damaged the traffic light control unit has been a source of much local dissatisfaction and concern. One anonymous reader Emailed me to say:- "I'm absolutely amazed nobody has been hurt trying to cross that road during peak hours. I was very nearly run over by a blue Tesla Model S on Tuesday night following an evening of leaving drinks. It's incredulous they haven't at least installed temporary traffic lights. Even as a driver it's dangerous to signal pedestrians to cross as I cannot account for other drivers (and interestingly enough, I discovered last week that you are legally liable should you indicate to another person that they have right of way, this includes flashing lights or simply giving way)".  I was on the 99 bus by the crossing on Friday afternoon last week - a woman with a double buggy only just made it over the closed crossing, as an old BMW 3 series came zooming along from the direction of Queen's Road, just missing her. Had the woman and children been a couple of seconds later, there would have almost certainly been a fatality. Finally, last Tuesday, fully two weeks since the crash that broke the lights, engineers were on site to carry out repairs. The traffic lights are now fully functional once again. In that extended two week period of outage, no temporary traffic lights or other provision was made for the hundreds of local commuters who needed to use the crossing every day. I am astounded that there was not a serious accident at the closed crossing. One other reader suggested that if the council could not provide temporary traffic lights, then perhaps they could have employed a lollipop lady or man at the very least to cover the peak commuting periods. I get the feeling if the crossing lights had been out in Bexleyheath or Welling, the council would have done something far more proactive, but, as Erith is considered to be in the frozen North of the borough, the council could not care less. What do you think? Drop me a line to hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Another issue which has raised a great deal of concern locally is the proposed redevelopment of the area of park land in West Street, adjacent to Chichester Wharf, Erith. Jonathan Batten, the Chair of the Erith Think Tank recently published the following statement and call for action:- "This message has been co-written by Tina and Johnny. Thank you to those of you who were able to attend on Tuesday (12th), and to the representatives from Extinction Rebellion Bexley who also joined us. Detailed minutes from the meeting are attached. Due to illness, the meeting mainly focused on the West Street Park proposed development - plans have now been submitted by BexleyCo to the planning department, with a deadline of objections being December 15th (!!). Pictures of this are attached, including a map showing the location, to those who are not familiar. In short, this is a much used and appreciated area of green space on West street, including 21 mature trees. Green space is finite across Erith. Bexley Council own the land, and have transferred it to their development company BexleyCo for development. The proposed development includes 30 flats, all of which will be sold for market rate; no affordable housing - the planning application can be viewed here. At a previous meeting, the Think Tank attendees were torn between two opinions; either that the development should be stopped, or that it was unclear what dividends (if any) Erith would receive for the great loss of green space, and therefore it was impossible to make a valued judgement. Everyone felt that if it were to be developed, Erith should see some tangible improvement (in infrastructure, for example). We have written to all of the Bexley Councillors on the Planning Committee, the leader of the Council, and to BexleyCo, requesting where the profits from this development will be spent (in Erith), and stating that we cannot support this development until we have sufficient information to make a valued judgement. The leader of Bexley Council, Teresa O'Neill, responded thus: The planning application has been submitted by BexleyCo for 30 homes which, given BexleyCo will look to give Bexley residents priority & aim to create quality housing, will be an opportunity for local residents. The application will go through the usual planning process which will ensure local residents will be consulted and can comment in the usual manner. The application proposes a contribution to affordable homes - and BexleyCo have plans to create affordable housing - that will benefit Bexley residents. All of the above will be in addition to the fiscal contribution to provision of services for local people. We have further queried how flats sold on the open market will have 'priority' to Bexley residents. There will not be any tangible dividend for Erith from the profits of this development, nor any infrastructure included in this scheme. Point 8 from our Manifesto states: We aim to inform, in plain language, about plans for Erith's present and future. To this end, and because the BexleyCo have done such a poor job of consulting local residents, including ignoring a previous consultation on this same plot by Bexley Council in 2015 (no formal response or analysis of this consultation is available), Tina proposed, and it was agreed at the meeting that the Think Tank should organise an 'activation' event, in collaboration with Extinction Rebellion Bexley, to raise awareness of this development. This event will happen in the park from 11.30am on Saturday November 30th, and will include an 'exhibition' showing BexleyCo's plans, highlight the parks value and ecology, and propose an alternative vision for the space. We will be seeking signatures on a petition, and planting a tree (donated kindly by the Wasteless Market) as part of the 'Big Climate Fightback' led by the Woodland Trust at midday. We will also be releasing a press release, and inviting local press. We will be engaging with local residents until 4pm. We are seeking your thoughts and permission to move forward with this activation? Can you help us? We need activists on the day to set up, speak to the public and hand out flyers. Regarding the alternative vision - we are not just opposing the development, but want to proffer an alternative vision! There is an exciting initiative, Pocket Parks, that allows for groups such as the Think Tank, to apply for funds to improve and revitalise parks for the benefit of local communities. You'll see from the minutes that we had lots of ideas for how the West Street park could be improved, intensifying and promoting its use, and making it more of an asset to all of Erith, as well as adjacent residents. We will present visuals of some of these ideas at the exhibition on the 30th". Fascinating stuff. I will be attending the event in the park next Saturday from 11.30am with my camera. Do come along to help preserve our much needed public open spaces. 

The third - and as far as I can tell - the final famous actor who had links with the local area - primarily living for a while in Nuxley Road, Upper Belvedere (not Nuxley Village - there is no such place) - is one who is not particularly well known in the UK, but was very famous and well liked in the USA. As a child, Efrem Zimbalist Jr. received a boarding school education. Acting in school plays, he later trained briefly at the Yale School of Drama but didn't apply himself enough and quit. As an NBC network radio page, he auditioned when he could and found minor TV and stock theatre parts while joining up with the Neighbourhood Playhouse. Following WWII war service with the Army infantry in which he was a commissioned officer, he was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded, a director and friend of the family, Garson Kanin, gave the aspiring actor his first professional role in his Broadway production of "The Rugged Path" (1945) which starred Spencer Tracy. With his dark, friendly, clean-scrubbed good looks and a deep, rich voice, Zimbalist found little trouble finding work. He continued with the American Repertory Theatre performing in such classics as "Henry VIII" and "Androcles and the Lion" while appearing opposite the legendary Eva Le Gallienne in "Hedda Gabler". Zimbalist then tried his hand as a stage producer, successfully bringing opera to Broadway audiences for the first time with memorable presentations of "The Medium" and "The Telephone". As producer of Gian Carlo Menotti's "The Consul", he won the New York Drama Critic's Award and the Pulitzer Prize for best musical in 1950. An auspicious film debut opposite Edward G. Robinson in House of Strangers (1949) brought little career momentum due to the untimely death of his wife Emily (a onetime actress who appeared with him in "Hedda Gabler" and bore him two children, Nancy and Efrem III) to cancer in 1950. Making an abrupt decision to abandon acting, he served as assistant director/researcher at the Curtis School of Music for his father and buried himself with studies and music composition. In 1956, Zimbalist was put under contract by Warner Bros. and moved to Hollywood. Zimbalist's first recurring role in a Warner Bros. Television series was as roguish gambler "Dandy Jim Buckley" on Maverick, opposite James Garner in 1957, and making five appearances as the character. In 1958, Zimbalist played the co-lead Stuart "Stu" Bailey in 77 Sunset Strip, a popular detective series running until 1964. During this period, he made several concurrent appearances in other Warner Bros. television shows, such as Hawaiian Eye, The Alaskans, and Bronco. He also starred as the lead in several feature films for Warners, such as Bombers B-52, The Deep Six, A Fever in the Blood and The Chapman Report. Zimbalist was in such demand during this time that he was given a vacation by Jack L. Warner due to exhaustion from his busy schedule. Zimbalist was most widely known for his starring role as Inspector Lewis Erskine in the Quinn Martin television production The F.B.I., which premiered on September 19, 1965 and aired its final episode on September 8, 1974. Zimbalist was generous in his praise of producer Martin and of his own experience starring in the show. Those who worked with him were equally admiring of the star's professionalism and likeable personality. Zimbalist maintained a strong personal relationship with F.B.I. director J. Edgar Hoover, who requested that the show be technically accurate and portray his agents in the best possible light, and he insisted actors playing F.B.I. employees undergo a background check. Zimbalist subsequently spent a week in contact with Hoover in Washington, D.C. and at the F.B.I. Academy in Quantico, Virginia. The men remained mutual admirers for the rest of Hoover's life. Hoover held up Zimbalist as a model for F.B.I. employees' personal appearance. After 77 Sunset Strip he appeared in other series, including CBS's short-lived The Reporter starring Harry Guardino as journalist Danny Taylor of the fictitious New York Globe. He also appeared in leading and supporting roles in several feature films, including Harlow, A Fever in the Blood (a film about a ruthless politician), Wait Until Dark and Airport 1975. Zimbalist had a recurring role as Daniel Chalmers, a white-collar con man, on his daughter Stephanie Zimbalist's 1980s television detective series Remington Steele, and in the television dramatic series Hotel. In 1990, he played the father of Zorro in the Christian Broadcasting Network's The New Zorro. Zimbalist relinquished the role after the program's first season due to the filming at studios outside Madrid, Spain, and the role subsequently went to Henry Darrow. He had a small recurring role in the 1990s hit science fiction television series Babylon 5 as William Edgars. Also in the 1990s, Zimbalist played Alfred Pennyworth in Batman: The Animated Series as well as in Superman: The Animated Series, The New Batman Adventures, Justice League, Static Shock, and the animated films Batman: Mask of the Phantasm, Batman and Mr. Freeze: SubZero, Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman; he also played villain Doctor Octopus in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. He appeared on the Trinity Broadcasting Network and as himself in the 1998 Smithsonian Institution production of Gemstones of America. He performed as the narrator in "Good Morning, America" by Elinor Remick Warren. Zimbalist wrote an autobiography, My Dinner of Herbs, published by Limelight Editions, New York. Efrem Zimbalist Jr's local connection was uncovered by Jacqui Davies, a local author, who met him as a baby. She recalls:- "I was always told by my elder sister I met Efrem when I was a baby. He was in Upper Belvedere during latter part of World War 2. A lot of American pilots and service men visited; also still not sure why but I know the married couple who managed the Royal Standard pub opposite my Nan's house in Nuxley Road had a lot of well known people who popped in there. I do not know if they were into entertainment but it would not surprise me. I was around 2 or 3 years of age; I was born in 1953 so must of been around 55 or 56 after war time yes I thought maybe he came back to visit people in the area as had association during the war. There was also a lot of Canadians around at the time I was told. My story goes my mum who knew the people who managed the pub took me over there to meet him. Why is a mystery believe me I have tried to get evidence all these years but nothing. The rest of my siblings were not taken it seems it was just me. My mum use to help with parties doing catering etc she also worked for Roger Moore and his first wife Dorothy Squires they threw a lot of parties also. I tried to contact Efrem's daughter but I only had Facebook to do it on I doubt she ever got my message as generally fans run these sites. I was hoping for some evidence but drew a blank".

I know many readers have concerns over their security and privacy whilst online. Whilst most modern web browsers are pretty good at protecting users from the worst online threats, a new one is hoping to really stir things up. The Brave web browser has been created by software guru Brendan Eich, an influential figure who invented the JavaScript programming language, and co-founded Mozilla - the organisation behind the excellent Firefox web browser. Brave, an open-source browser based on the open source Chromium browser project, which is also responsible for Google Chrome - the most popular browser around, and is notable for two things. First, it blocks adverts, trackers and cross-site cookies by default. This feature is called Shields. An icon in the toolbar tells you how many items are blocked, with numbers in the 30s and 40s common. If the site is either well-behaved and you want to allow ads to be displayed, or so badly behaved that it does not work with Shields on (and you are desperate to see the content), you can disable Shields for a site by clicking the icon. Eich says in the Brave 1.0 announcement that the industry's fixation on ads, personalisation and data collection "not only violates privacy, but slows down page loads, drains batteries, and makes for a miserable experience". Currently the Brave browser has a tiny market share of around 8.7 million users. The browser can be downloaded for free for Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS and Android. I have been running it for the last week on my Apple Mac, and also on my Raspberry Pi running Raspbian Linux; if you are used to Google Chrome, the transition to Brave is extremely easy - your bookmarks and all of your preferences and settings are imported into Brave with a click of a button. The browser looks and feels very similar indeed to Chrome, so nobody should feel outside of their comfort zone. The additional privacy and security controls are mostly enabled automatically, though you can make any personal adjustments in the settings option. Although it is only at version 1.0.1, it is feature full and pretty robust - which bearing in mind it is using the long established Chrome code base, it should be. I have found a couple of minor bugs - nothing earth shattering, but worth me filing a bug report with the software engineering team. Several browsers have taken steps to block trackers and ads, but in many cases, they are limited or need to be enabled. Firefox started blocking some trackers by default earlier this year. Apple's Safari goes a step further by blocking almost all third-party trackers from sites you don’t visit frequently while allowing trackers from sites you check regularly but limiting their duration to 24 hours. Microsoft Edge is still testing a feature that also only blocks some trackers by default, which should arrive on January 15th. Google announced in May that it plans to launch some tracker-blocking tools, but doesn’t plan to block cookies on a large scale and hasn’t rolled out those tools quite yet; instead, the company has said it’s expecting to deliver a way to block certain “classifications” of cookies in Chrome by default in February 2020. Built-in ad-blockers are a little harder to find. Most of the time, you need to download an extension. Chrome automatically blocks ads that fail standards set by the Coalition for Better Ads. The mobile versions of Microsoft Edge have a built-in ad-blocker, but you need to turn it on. Brave’s privacy options go beyond blocking ads and trackers. It actually has two private modes: Private Window and Private Window with Tor. The first is like any other browser’s private or incognito mode: none of your data is saved to your device, but it may still be seen by the websites you visit, your network administrator, or ISP. For added security, Brave has a private mode that uses Tor, also known as The Onion Router, a browser that hides your information by encrypting it and passing it through three relays, bringing that level of security to your browsing. However, Brave notes you may want to switch to Tor’s own browser if security and anonymity are absolutely necessary. The bottom line for all of this is that Brave is built on well proven code from Google Chrome, but with several added layers of privacy and security protection baked in - all for free. You can download the Brave web browser by clicking here.

Rumours are circulating that after getting the old Erith Town Hall a locally listed status, Bexley Councillors have been discussing selling the building for conversion into flats. A couple of readers actually overheard a group of councillors discussing the proposed project. Currently I have no details of the proposal, but it has been known for quite some time that the building was likely to be repurposed, now that the housing functions of Bexley council - which were sited at the Erith Town Hall - have been merged with Bromley Council, there is very little use for the building now. The rumoured repurposing the building into apartments is of little surprise. What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com in complete confidence.

The London Evening Standard once again showed its lack of knowledge, if not outright contempt for the local area in an article it published in its property section last week. The article goes:- "Abbey Wood is the first easterly stop of the central section of the Elizabeth line. Bindu Batta has bought a one-bedroom flat at Erith Baths, within walking distance of the station. The 36-year-old scientist had been commuting from Surrey and now lives in touching distance of central London. Using shared ownership she put down a deposit of £22,500 for a 40 per cent share of a £227,500 home. Her journey into central London from Erith is easy and the last train back is 12.55am, “so I can still go out”. Prices start from £73,125 for a 25 per cent share". The glaring error is that the Standard journalist has confused Abbey Wood with Erith - the Erith Baths development is a short walk from Erith Station, but as the article is written, it makes it sound like the walk is to Abbey Wood Station - the walk from Erith Baths to there is a major route march, and in reality it is two stops on the railway, or a substantial bus journey. Lazy, inaccurate journalism. The Standard does not really care about readers South of the River Thames.

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly the report from Barnehurst ward:- "In the past week Barnehurst Ward has suffered one burglary in Twigg Close. This occurred on Friday 15/11/2019 between the hours of 05.15am – 07.45pm. Glass to the rear door was smashed and entry gained. Victim returned to an untidy search and items taken . There has also been an attempted burglary in Appledore Avenue on Thursday 14/11/2019 at 00.35 hours. Suspect was captured on CCTV wearing dark trainers with white soles, a hooded jacket and very quickly attempted the front door handle before walking away in the direction of Fairford Avenue. Following the burglary at 03.55am Merewood Road reported in last week's update we were contacted by a local resident also from Merewood Road who had CCTV footage of a male trying his door handle at 04.02am, In the background a white Audi A3 could be seen in the road with the driver's door open. The suspect was seen returning to this vehicle before making off. We have obtained a registration number from the vehicle and Investigations are ongoing. The team will be rolling out Smart Water kits to residents of Eastleigh Road this weekend. In the meantime we are concentrating on patrols in and around Merewood Road, ABC Roads. The next community contact session will be on Thursday 5th December 2019 at 11.00 in Barnehurst Golf Club. We will be holding a later session on Tuesday 17th December 2019 at 16.00 hours". Belvedere ward:- "School talks have been taking place at Belvedere Junior School this week. Year 4 had a talk about the local Police, what we do and how we can help. Year 5 and Year 6 received talks about bullying, cyber bullying and internet safety. All the pupils seemed to take an interest in the subjects spoken about and we hope that they took on board what was being said, along with having a bit of a laugh in the process. On Sunday 17/11/2019 the annual Sikh Parade took place around Belvedere. The parade went very well and the participants had a good, safe time. There was minor road disruption, which upset a few people, but overall no real issues. There was a report of a burglary at Dowling House a week or so ago. It seems like the door was either left open or the suspect had a key as no damage was caused to gain entry. Dowling House is a secure building with key fob/door buzzer access. Jewellery was the main items taken. Two males were seen to be snooping around the communal garden of Russet Court on the Thursday 14/11/2019, at around 12:30. They were challenged but claimed to be assessing the land at the school as they are looking to buy and develop the land. They were both Asian looking, aged around 30-35 years. The school stated they were not aware to be selling any land. Issues continue in Wadeville Close. The courtyard area of the supported living buildings are having two youths, aged around 14-15 years, loitering inside. They are reportedly smoking cannabis and using this area so as to not be seen. If anyone is seen loitering and look out of place please consider contacting the team. Our next street-a-week is on Monday 25/11/2019 at Wadeville Close. TEMPORARY PROHIBITION OF VEHICULAR TRAFFIC ORDER 2019 (WOOLWICH ROAD, BELVEDERE). Temporary closure of Woolwich Road starting on 2nd December for about 3 days. The London Borough of Bexley, being the Traffic Authority for the above mentioned road, in exercise of powers conferred by section 14(1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, HEREBY GIVE NOTICE that, to enable FM Conway's on behalf of the London Borough of Bexley to undertake highway improvement works, they intend to make an Order the effects of which will be the introduction of no waiting and no loading in Woolwich Road from outside 146 to 104 both sides of the carriageway. There will also be a road closure to vehicular traffic in Woolwich Road from the junction of Court Avenue to The Junction with Tyeshurst Close. During the closure there will be no egress or ingress to The View except for emergency vehicles. There will also be a banned right turn from Court Avenue, restriction will be removed when works allow. The Order will come into effect on 2nd December 2019 and is valid for a period of 18 months. However, the works are expected to be completed within 3 days. Whilst the works are in progress, an alternative diversion route will be provided via: Eastbound Diversion; Woolwich Road; Nuxley Road, Bedonwell Road, King Harold's Way, Brampton Road, Woolwich Road. Westbound Diversion; Woolwich Road, Brampton Road, King Harold's Way, Bedonwell Road, Nuxley Road, Albert Road, Woolwich Road". Bexleyheath ward:- "Wednesday 13/11/19 1400 – 1445 Theft of Purse in Card Factory Thursday 14/11/19 2255 Theft of Motor Vehicle St Francis Avenue Friday 15/11/19 1900 – 2355 Criminal Damage to Church Bexleyheath Broadway – broken window Sunday 17/11/19 1930 Robbery of a bag from young male on bus Monday 18/11/19 1200 Theft of Motor Vehicle Gravel Hill Close Monday 18/11/19 1145 Theft of Purse in Marks and Spencer. Please ensure that doors and windows to properties are locked and secured with keys (lift the handle and turn the key in the lock) where applicable – revisit home security and lighting now the dark lights are coming. Please be careful with purse/wallets whilst out shopping, make sure they are secured inside your bags with a zip type handbag". Crayford ward:- "Just one burglary and one theft from motor vehicle to report this week. Between 20.00 on 15th November and 09.30 on Saturday 16th November the rear window was smashed on a vehicle parked on Iron Mill Lane, the glove compartment was rifled through but it's not known what may have been taken.There was a burglary on Saturday 16th November between 09.30-11.00 in Woodfall Drive. Entry was made through the front door, the lock was damaged. There were untidy searches in all rooms but especially the children's bedrooms, cash and an iPad in a pink case were stolen. Burglary is one of the most awful crimes and this time of year with dark nights often sees an increase. Please do all that you can to prevent this happening to you, review your home security and refer to www.met.police.co.uk for further tips and security advice. The Crayford Winter Festival takes place on Saturday 30th November between 15.00-19.00 in Waterside Gardens, we will be there along with our colleagues from Neighbourhood Watch, we look forward to seeing you there!"

Erith ward:- "At 01:50 on the 21/11/19 four men tried to unsuccessfully break in to the car park at phase one of Erith Park. Their attempt at entry involved trying to rip out the wiring for the gates, and a push with their car. Photo above for your information". Northumberland Heath ward:- "This week we have had some ASB in the Kebab Express on Bexley Road, the team have viewed the CCTV, identified one of the suspects and conducted a home visit to speak with the youths parents. We will continue to identify further suspects and further home visits will be conducted. We will not tolerate ASB on our ward. The team has issued a CPN (Community Protection Notice) to a male this week who has been involved in ASB and being investigated for drug supply. One male was arrested for malicious communications. We have had two Motor vehicle crimes on the ward this week as follows:- On Thursday the 14th November between 08:45 – 09:00 a silver Mercedes VRM GV07 HLO was stolen from Detling Road. Two suspects were seen, one white male and one black male, no further description. On Tuesday the 19th November overnight a vehicle was broken into on Belmont Road, house keys and bank cards were stolen from the vehicle. Please be mindful not to leave valuable items in your vehicle, especially if they are on display, this will make your vehicle a target." Slade Green and Northend ward:- "A burglary took place at sometime between Sunday 17/11 and Monday 18/11 in Springhead Road. There are no actual details at this time as to if anything was stolen as the property is being renovated at the owner is yet to get back to police but entry appears to have been made by smashing a window in the back door. Enquiries are ongoing. In the early hours of Tuesday 19/11 a vehicle in Manor Road had jewellery, a purse and cash stolen from inside. The victim has stated they are quite sure they forgot to lock their car doors but luckily cancelled the banks cards before they could be used. A local CCTV camera did pick up footage of unknown suspects trying car doors during the early hours. Please ensure your vehicle is always locked and do not leave ANY valuables inside your vehicle, even if they are seemingly out of sight. This coming Saturday 23/11 is the St Augustines Christmas Fete in the church hall from 1100-1400. We cannot be there due to days off etc but please pop along to show your support if you can. PC's Mark and James are leaving us for the next month as they are both attending a firearms course in the hope of furthering their career, we wish them well. During this time, our ward is being covered by officers from neighbouring wards including North Heath, Erith and Barnehurst who we thank in advance for their help". Thamesmead East ward:- "Vehicle Crime - Thamesbank Place Friday 15/11/19 between 8:30pm – 11pm Victim returned to vehicle and found that the rear window had been smashed with 'no entry gained or anything stolen '. Whilst in the process of cleaning up the broken glass the victim was approached by a neighbour who stated that at approximately 11pm the night before a vehicle similar to the victims drove into the car park turned around and drove out slightly before reversing back in. Shortly after she heard the window break and the vehicle drive off, but did not see who broke the window. This coincides with the time that victim heard the alarm going off. Mangold Way Friday 15/11/19 between 5:30pm – 9am Saturday 16/11/19 Victim returned to vehicle when she was approached by a neighbour who stated that all four tyres on victim's vehicle were flat. A local garage has confirmed that each tyre was stabbed twice. No suspect/s seen. Other Theft - St Martin's Close Saturday 16/11/19 between 4pm – 12pm Sunday 17/11/19 Victim was returning home when victim received a call from a flatmate stating the door to victim's room was left open and victim's things were scattered around the room. On returning to victim's room it was discovered a laptop and £500 which had been previously withdrawn to pay the rent, had been removed by suspect/s unknown. Criminal Damage - Fleming Way Tuesday 19/11/19 between 1pm – 4pm Victim's kitchen window smashed by means of climbing onto a recycling bin no suspect/s seen.  Good News. A vehicle was recovered following a telephone call from a local resident who stated the vehicle had been at the location for 3 days. Various checks were completed confirming the vehicle had been stolen from Plumstead". West Heath ward:- "We have had two burglaries reported to us over the last week. The first took place in Glenview between Saturday November 9th and Tuesday November 12th at 8pm. The victim was on holiday at the time of the incident and this was reported by a neighbour. The rear patio was forced and a side door was damaged .It is not known at this time if any property was stolen. The second burglary took place in Penhurst Road Between Tuesday November 12th at 6.15pm and Wednesday November 13th at 10.30am. Entry was gained via a kitchen window causing the burglar alarm to activate, thankfully the suspects made off and nothing was taken. Several motor vehicle crimes have taken place this week. One theft of a black Mercedes Benz from a driveway in First Avenue on Wednesday November 13th between 02.30am – 06.00am. A vehicle was broken in to in Lodge Hill between Thursday November 14th between 09.30am and 05.30 on Friday November 15th. The driver's window was smashed but nothing was taken. Vehicle broken in to in Gipsy Road overnight on Thursday November 14th 8.30pm to Friday November 15th at 8.10am when the victim discovered the vehicle door ajar. Several pairs of Ray Ban sunglasses were stolen from the vehicle".

The end video this week was taken from the BBC News website; it features former Erith and Thamesmead MP Teresa Pearce, and how she and other MP's suffer from abuse and intimidation from members of the public. Teresa Pearce is not standing in the next election - she is going into retirement. I personally do not envy anyone who stands for public office; the stresses would appear to be immense, and you never get to switch off - the role is pretty much 24/7. Send any feedback to me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

The crossing.

There has been serious disruption outside of Christ Church, Erith, and around the junction of Fraser Road, Bexley Road, Bronze Age Way and Queen's Road. As you can see from the photos above, the traffic lights on the bridge across the railway are not working, after a car went out of control. mounted the pavement, and collided with the traffic light control unit, putting it out of commission. As a result of this, the pedestrian crossing has been closed. This has been having a serious impact on commuters travelling to and from Erith Station. The junction, along with the adjacent Fish Roundabout is the second busiest in the whole of the London Borough of Bexley; the only busier location is the roundabout adjacent to the A2 by Hall Place. One would have thought that the authorities would have been speedy in repairing the accident damage, on such a high profile and heavily trafficked site, but the reality could not be very much further from the truth. I received the following Email from a concerned local resident who chooses to remain anonymous:- "I don’t know if you’re aware that the pedestrian traffic lights near the Fish roundabout have been out of order for several days now, following an accident. By dint of several emails to Bexley and TFL I’ve been given the following update from an official in Bexley’s Engineering Services which your readers might be interested in. I’m sure many locals have found it almost impossible to cross there in recent days without risking life or limb and currently there seems little or no work going on there, though usefully there’s a sign saying Crossing Not In Use (!) I was personally subjected to a volley of abuse last weekend by a bus driver who objected to stopping behind a car which had made way for me, and it must be chaotic there during peak commuter times.  As you can see, Bexley told me it was TFL’s responsibility whilst TFL told me the opposite, hence the opening sentence. Hopefully by the time the next Maggot Sandwich goes out, the situation might have resolved itself, though it seems unlikely at the moment". A council official had responded to my correspondent with the following:- "I can assure you that this matter is for Transport for London to resolve, despite what their customer services have advised below. I have contacted them direct and found that the delay to being re-instated is due to the fact that the collision damaged the controller to the crossing rather than just one of the signal poles.  Therefore they have had to source replacement equipment for it as it an older style system; upgrading to the new style system is not a simple matter of putting in the new unit, but would require a full recabling and replacement of all the signal heads etc.  I understand the replacement equipment has nearly all been installed now and the final safety and operation checks will be needed prior to actual return to use. They were unable to provide a date for this to be done, but aware it is required urgently due to limited alternative routes and our pressing for completion. Hopefully, it will be resolved very soon". After some research, I have come to understand that remedial work on the traffic lights and their controller unit is now scheduled to begin next week - ten days since the traffic lights were put out of commission. The fact that no temporary traffic lights or other provision for the hundreds of local commuters and other pedestrians on what is the second busiest junction in the whole of the borough has been made really speaks loudly as to how poorly the authorities regard Erith residents. What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

Last week I mentioned that as well as the connection between Clint Eastwood and Plumstead, there was a further connection to an Oscar winning performer. I had a couple of readers contact me with suggestions as to who the mystery person could be - and the names quoted were fascinating, but incorrect; one of the actors mentioned will be featured in a future Maggot Sandwich update, as prior to being contacted, I had absolutely no idea that the actor had any local connection at all. It is not often that the local area gets used as the location for a film; we have had Thamesmead and the old Bexley College tower (now demolished, and replaced by a housing estate) used as locations for the cult E4 TV show “Misfits”, but to my knowledge the last time the area was used for a major feature film was back in September 1970 to April 1971, when Stanley Kubrick used Tavy Bridge area of Thamesmead as the main location for much of his film “A Clockwork Orange”. Since then things have been quiet. The only exception to this was back in the 18th of March 2014 - 3rd of May 2014, when the producers of a film called “London Road”, which used locations in Lower Belvedere, Thamesmead and Nuxley Road, Upper Belvedere as locations for the film musical based on the 2006 Ipswich prostitute murders. “London Road” used verbatim testimony from residents to show how they came together to rebuild their world after five women were killed in the Suffolk town in 2006. It is based on the award-winning stage production at the National Theatre. The film starred actress Olivia Colman (who I have seen on stage playing “Minka”, the psychopathic Polish secretary in the excellent and very underrated WWII set BBC Radio 4 sitcom “Hut 33” - some years before she became famous). in 2018 Olivia Colman won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her starring role as Queen Anne in the film "The Favourite". Her earlier role in the locally shot movie "London Road" generally went rather unnoticed. When promoting "London Road" back in 2015, Olivia Colman said of the film: “It’s actually about a group of people who heal themselves. I think people have a preconception that the musical is about death and murder but that’s not what it is about. It’s about a community who have got the world’s press looking at them and decide to make themselves better. Learning the verbatim script — including all the “ums” and “ers” of conversation — was much harder than a normal one. But having been fearful of it and close to tears at times, I'd say it was one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling jobs I've ever had. It also means the words audiences hear are what people genuinely said and were not “twisted”. These are real people, with no filter, being terribly honest”. She also had to sing in the film, which was not something that she had done before: “I used to sing at school. I can hold a tune, but I’m not under any impression I’m a proper singer. It was really scary, but lovely. It’s a fascinating story that most of us remember from the news.” Olivia Colman said it was a weird project compared with “shoot-em-up” movies or rom-coms, but added: “I think film-lovers will love this film. It is absolutely original.” The photo above shows Oliva Colman looking through the serving hatch from the main hall and into the kitchen in All Saint’s Church Hall in Nuxley Road, Upper Belvedere. Slightly behind her, dressed in purple is Anita Dobson; out of shot is the co - star of the film, Tom Hardy. You can watch a review of "London Road" by the BBC's Mark Kermode by clicking here. Contact me in confidence by Email at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Following the observations and photograph published last week, courtesy of reader Damion, I received the photo shown above, and the text below from retired professional photographer Richard, who writes:- "Interesting to read your article about the Thames seals. They have been a feature in Thamesmead for some years and usually haul themselves out onto the mud flats in front of the (now disused) power station water outlet opposite the old golf course. They can be seen elsewhere along the river, (they especially like to fish at the Crossness outfall), but they do seem to prefer that one piece of mud and can be seen regularly at low tide during the Autumn and Winter months. The Common, or Harbour Seals appear first and are joined later in the year by Grey Seals. Incidentally, if anyone does spot a seal or any other marine mammal, they should report in on the Thames Marine Mammal Survey. The link is here - https://sites.zsl.org/inthethames/ The attached picture (shown above - click on it for a larger view) is one I took a year or so ago".

The Bookstore Cafe, run by The Exchange at the old Carnegie Library in Walnut Tree Road in Erith have announced their festive Christmas menu. In the upper of the two images above, you can see staff putting up Christmas decorations in the cafe, which is rated as the number one eaterie in the local area by TripAdviser. The Bookstore Cafe is run by cafe manager Laura Bell, and menus are devised by Head Chef Louisa Budds, who trained with the Michelin-star chef Marcus Wareing. The Bookstore Cafe is a not-for-profit part of The Exchange, so any proceeds made go back into the Old Library and its community offer. Every pound you spend does a good deed. The announcement reads:- "From Friday the 15th of November, we will be serving a taste of Christmas! Including: Starters of hot smoked salmon, chicken liver and brandy parfait, and winter spiced squash soup; Main courses of roast turkey or beef, or a mushroom pithivier served with roasted potatoes, wilted chestnut greens and honey-glazed parsnips and carrots. Desserts include chocolate and orange torte, pear and ginger pudding and a tasty cheese section. The cost for a three-course Christmas dinner is £25 per person;  or book with a glass of bubbles on arrival for £30 per person. This menu will be available from 15 November for Friday lunchtimes, and Friday and Saturday evenings. From the 1st December it will be available for Sunday lunches. If you are interested in booking, please contact us here with numbers and preferred date, and let us know of any dietary requirements/allergies. Please note, for every booking we will ask for a £10 per head deposit".

Following my slightly tongue in cheek comments last week about local resident Jermaine Kerr, otherwise known as The Dartford Raver. It has come to my attention that the lad is actually not from Dartford after all - he's an Erith resident. Since he promoted his rather woeful YouTube channel several weeks ago by writing "YouTube Dartford Raver" all over local bus stops and other public areas, the marker pen graffiti has now been removed in some locations by the sub contractor company that maintains the stops. I sincerely hope that Kerr does not re - vandalise the bus stops, as I am sure it would get him into serious trouble. I gather from someone that knows him that he's a nice lad, just a bit on the naive side. Advertising yourself by illegal graffiti is a mug's game.

Jonathan Batten, member of the  Erith Think Tank (photo from a recent meeting above - click on it for a larger view) is not a happy man right now - and with good reason. The Think Tank, who's mission includes improving community engagement, extended an olive branch to the Council when they were invited to speak at a Think Tank meeting in October. This meeting was a success, and the hope was that this could continue. However, he feels that the warm words spoken at that meeting have yet to translate in positive action. Jonathan stated to me that his views are his own, and not necessarily those of the other members of the  Erith Think Tank, to whome he has written the below to seek their views. Jonathan writes: :- "I was disappointed to find out via Twitter, after the fact, that Erith's regeneration was on the Agenda and discussed at the Public Cabinet meeting on Tuesday evening (12th Nov), coincidentally at the same time as our meeting. I was further disappointed that despite exchanging emails with Cllr Louie French the day before about there being further communication between the Council and the Think Tank, AND with Cllr's Joe Ferreira and Nicola Taylor on the same day (!), none of them thought to mention that this was being discussed. Despite the warms words supporting good engagement, the Think Tank was not at the fore-front of their minds when the Council's Erith regeneration plans were seeking approval from elected members. I have written to all of the above Cllr's to express my disappointment, and urge better communication going forward. I have no doubt that Think Tank members would have wished to attend and ask questions. Cllr French's response, in short, is that we should follow the Council more closely on social media. The content of the statements from the Council and responses from Cllrs was most illuminating, and the document being discussed even more so. I feel I now know more about the immediate future for Erith's regeneration than I learnt from the two hours of Bexley Council presenting to the Think Tank at our meeting in October and all my research to date. Watching back through some of the responses in the footage from the Council presentation, there is much obfuscation, whereas here we have the direction of travel in black and white, ultimately ending in 6000 new homes and 2000 new jobs (over the 30 years of the Growth Strategy). To paraphrase the meeting and document: Progress the redevelopment of 70 Pier Rd (old Bank chambers - they have already engaged architects and will be seeking planning permission and appointing contractors of the £4.2 million pound project - we discover now that this will be 'redeveloped into offices and residential units, whilst at the same time ensuring the asset is protected' - quite how this can work needs serious examination.) Open a community Kitchen at 66/68 Pier Rd (partnership between Bexley and GCDA, a Greenwich based co-operative, funded by the Mayors 'Good Growth' fund, which will include a 'family friendly cafe, provision for a professional kitchen for hire, and cooking sessions for local families'. The Council feels there is room for two publicly funded cafe's in Erith - what do you think? A less than informative 'consultation' on this happened in the Spring - but nothing visual or written was presented; indeed the stand appeared to be just handing out food samples.) Negotiate and purchase a lease for 28-40 Pier Rd (empty space above Farm-foods - refurbish space as an office, to be sub-let.) Progress the feasibility and concept design work for the Erith links program and submit a bid to TfL for 'Liveable Neighbourhood' funding. (This is a significant project for which the Council are bidding for funds, that would see the 'movement' of traffic, cyclists and pedestrians dramatically remodelled in the town centre, and thereby improve the high street, air quality and congestion through Erith. The work along Pier Rd reflects the Council thrust to make this the central street in Erith's town centre. They have not been successful in previous attempts to secure this money. The bid is going in on the 29/11/19.) Develop proposals for the redevelopment of the sites in Erith's 'western gateway' ('Core site' within Walnut Tree Road, Bexley Road and Erith High street - inc more housing, shop frontages to Bexley Road and Erith High street. The towers will stay and are in good condition, but will be built around. The former Town Hall, Running Horses pub and postoffice corner will also remain. See here for a 2012 scheme. Some of this will change due to the potential re-modelling of the traffic flow, but Erith Bath's is the first step on this redevelopment, and the direction of travel is likely to be the same). Explore a potential partnership with Orbit housing who are the major landowner in the area. (See above point - further detail to be brought forward at Cabinet meeting for approval in New Year - v.soon then!) Continue to acquire properties in the Pier Rd area. (Properties are being quietly bought by the Council at market value - 'to date, one significant freehold interest, and five long leasehold interests' - this will form the new high-street, and pedestrians will enter Erith from the station, down this road, and ending at the Pier.) 'Options' for the opening up of the end of Avenue Road. What's clear from the above is that there is already a secret Masterplan for Erith, and the Council are pushing towards that end at pace, whilst not being forthcoming with Erith's residents, nor doing enough to seek their views.  Several Councillors spoke, including Louie French and Cllr Read (Erith resident and who also attended the meeting in September) in support of this moving forward. Nicola Taylor read a statement, as one of Erith's Councillors; whilst it is commendable that Cllr Taylor argued for more affordable and social housing and that 'regeneration shouldn't become gentrification', the partisan party political framing of the statement was met with a frosty partisan party political response from leader of the Council, Teresa O'Neill, which did little to change anyone's mind. It was also disappointing that none of the actual content of the document being considered was challenged. The whole document was presented, and waived through in around 12 minutes. In short, one has to question whether the Council and Cllr's mean what they say when they talk about good community engagement, and whether the quality of the scrutiny at these meetings is serving Erith well. 

The Maggot Sandwich is brought to you this week courtesy of my Raspberry Pi 4B - as shown in the photograph above. The small, cheap computer, primarily designed for education is the size of  a credit card. I use it as a secondary computer, and a backup to my main Apple iMac, which is my workhorse desktop computer. Unfortunately my Mac decided to start playing up on Friday evening, and at the time of writing, I am not sure exactly what the problem is; bearing in mind my long background in IT, it is most definitely a case of "Physician, heal thyself" - though a trip to the Apple store at Bluewater looks like it will probably be on the cards at some point. Apple kit is not really self repairable. I suspect that the problem is centred around the Bluetooth keyboard, but time will tell. *Update* - the problems with the Mac were down to a failure in the Bluetooth keyboard - it was constantly sending false signals to the computer, causing the very strange behaviour I experienced. According to a couple of Apple online forums, this kind of failure is a known issue with the older type of Apple Bluetooth keyboards. You live and learn.

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly the update from Barnehurst ward:- "Good news first, Barnehurst Ward have had no Incidents of vehicle crime however there have been two recent burglary's. The first occurred in Merewood Road at 03.55am on 12/11/2019. Entry was gained via the front door which was not double locked. Very slight tool marks were found on the door frame. Victim woke after hearing noise and disturbed the burglar who fled the scene taking with him a handbag. This bag was later recovered but contents missing. No one was seen, this may be due to a nearby footpath that was probably the escape route / The second burglary was also on the 12/11/2019 between 05.00pm – 6.45pm in Downbank Avenue, not too far away from Merewood Road. This was an empty property so it's believed nothing has been taken. The front door was found to be forced open by a neighbour who in turn alerted Police / Residents of Midfield Road have now received Smart Water kits. We will be making a start on Eastleigh Road very soon. Next door is a social media platform which we now use on a regular basis, please can you encourage neighbour to sign up. The next community contact session is on Tuesday 19th November 2019 at 11.00am in Barnehurst Golf Club. We look forward to seeing you". Belvedere ward:-"There was a report of a burglary at Dowling House in Laymarsh Close last week. A resident of the sheltered accommodation in the street reported that at some point between October/ November, his flat had been accessed and jewellery stolen. The investigation into this is ongoing at this stage. The team are still receiving calls and reports of anti-social behaviour taking place around the Samson Court end of Ruskin Road. Over the last week we have carried out several patrols of the location in an effort to curb this behaviour. From these patrols, PC Smith has had reason to stop/search 5 persons in the residents car parking area, resulting in 4 cannabis seizures with warnings given and one person issued a £90 fine. PC Holmes also completed a search in St. Augustines Road having stopped a female smoking cannabis in her car – this also resulted in a warning given. There was another burglary on the ward, in Elmbourne Drive. This is said to have happened in the late afternoon at dusk. Residents reported returning home to find their patio doors to the rear of the property had had glass smashed and entry was gained by this means. Strangely, nothing appears to have been taken from the property. PC Holmes and PCSO Worrall are visiting Belvedere Junior school this week to speak to each year group on a range of topics. Our next street a week is taking place on Monday 18th at 5pm in Bunkers Hill". Bexleyheath ward:- "Wednesday 6/11/19 Theft from Motor Vehicle 1915 – 2215 whilst in Goals Bexleyheath; side window on car has been smashed and sports bag and contents stolen. Wednesday 6/11/19 1000 Burglary Mayplace Road East entry gained through front door, deadlock not activated. Unknown which items stolen at time of reporting. Thursday 7/11/19 1700 Criminal Damage Cineworld Bexleyheath – eggs thrown at window. Thursday 7/11/19 1720 Criminal Damage Cineworld Bexleyheath – eggs thrown at window again same group of youths. Friday 8/11/19 1230 Theft of Handbag whilst trying on shoes in Harris Bexleyheath Broadway. Friday 8/11/19 1900 Theft of a youths mobile phone by other youths in Martens Grove Park".  Crayford ward:- "I am really sorry to say that we have had three burglaries this week in Crayford. On Friday 8th November between 07.00-17.45 a rear window was smashed to a property in Barnes Cray Road and a laptop was stolen.  A bank card was stolen during a burglary in Stephen Road between 10.00 on Thursday 7th November and 17.50 on Friday 8th November, the front door was found open but the rear patio door had been smashed off its runners. A significant amount of tools were stolen from a property in Iron Mill Place undergoing renovations between Friday 8th November and Monday 11th November. Entry was made by prising open an aluminium window at the rear of the property. Items stolen included, a Triton Breaker in a black case, Magnusson levels, three in a black case, Makita 9” grinder, Stanley Fatman bag containing selection of drills, Rubi 4” Tile grinder and spare blade, Makita site radio, Challenge Chop Saw and Topps Tiles tile cutter. There has also been an attempted break in to a garage at the rear of homes in Glebelands between Friday 8th and Tuesday 12th November, the padlock was broken off and the handle damaged but no entry gained. Tyres were slashed on a grey Seat Ateca parked outside Crosby House between 20.00 on Friday 8th November and 09.00 on Saturday 9th November. Youths have been shoplifting food items from Greggs, they are all white males aged between 13-16 years. A football bag and Sat Nav were stolen from a white Ford Transit whilst parked at Hall Place between 05.20-13.00 on Saturday 9th November. Criminal damage was caused to a white BMW one series whilst parked in Watling Street between 18.20 on the Saturday 9th November and 14.00 on Sunday 10th November, the window was smashed and a dent was caused to the door frame, no entry gained to the vehicle. A catalytic convertor was stolen from a blue Toyota Auris Hybrid whilst parked at Hall Place on Monday 11th November between 9.30 and 11.30, the metal plate covering the catalytic convertor was bent down and a number of bolts and screws were found under the vehicle. A Landrover, registration WV53HFH was stolen off the driveway of a property in Mayplace Road East on Monday 11th November between 06.00-15.00. Between Thursday 7th and Tuesday 12th November a black Renault Clio was damaged whilst parked at Mulberry Court, Bourne Industrial Park, Bourne Road, the lock was smashed and the seal around the window was removed, it is not known if anything was stolen. Our next community contact session will be at Crayford Library on Tuesday 19th November between 14.00-15.00. The Crayford Winter Festival will be held at Waterside Gardens on Saturday 30th November, there will lots going on and is expected to be a lovely community event, Christmas lights will be switched on for Crayford by local children". Erith ward:- "We have been hit with theft from M/V again we will be out today posting motor crime prevention leaflets to areas being targeted. Residential burglary on Wednesday 7/11/2019 Larner Road - By unknown suspect/s forcing entry to house via rear doors smashing windows of doors to gain entry. An untidy search has been conducted in each room at property Shoplift  of greater than £200 Monday 5/11/2019 Matalan Erith High Street. Attempted Residential Burglary Thursday 8/11/2019 Pembroke Road - Suspect has smashed the rear garden door but has not entered the property. Theft from Motor Vehicle Sunday 10/11/2019 Saltford Close. Theft from Motor Vehicle Sunday 10/11/2019 Winifred Road,  Theft from Motor Vehicle Monday 11/11/2019 James Watt Way, Theft from Motor Vehicle Tuesday 12/11/2019 Erith High Street". Northumberland Heath ward:- "The team have been very busy over the last week, we have visited one of the blocks in Becton Place due to complaints from residents about cannabis being smoked inside properties and in the stairwells. The team delivered letters to every resident in the block introducing the team and giving our contact details, also in the letter reminding residents that it is a breach of their tenancy. During this visit the team stopped a group of males who are known for ASB and drug offences, 2 of the males were searched and the group were given strong words of advice about entering or hanging around the block. The team are still investigating a large scale of ASB and theft from BNN Mini Mart on Brook Street, we are gradually identifying the the males of whom we have very good CCTV images off. Unfortunately we have had a burglary on Belmont Road this week, we believe this may have been a targeted burglary for Asian Gold. The team attended the location and made door to door enquiries and search for CCTV. We also had a theft of a catalytic converter from a vehicle on Bedonwell Road. Please note that if you would like to fill in the Bexley Crime Survey, we have supplied a batch of these to the library on Mill Road, the form will take about 5 mins and gives you a chance to have your say on crime on the borough, we have supplied a box for your completed forms to be posted into.  Our next community contact session is on Wednesday 27th November at 3pm in the Mill Road Library, please do come along and meet a member of the team and discuss any issues or concerns you have, or just pop in and say hello".

Slade Green and Northend ward:- "A burglary took place between 3pm and 8.30pm in Alexandra Road on Friday 08/11. Entry was made via a smashed window in the back door. Tablets, jewellery and cash were taken. CCTV at the back of the property shows at least 2 suspects leaving the back of the property as the victim came home. Unfortunately the footage has no clear image of the suspects. The team are aware of a recent increase in ASB and criminal damage around Budgens on Rainbow Road and in the bin sheds on the estate. CCTV images of all those involved are being looked at to take the necessary action against anyone identified. Patrols are to be made as and when we can. PCSO Mark attended the Remembrance Sunday Service at St Augustines on Sunday 10/11 where around 200 people came to pay their respects and lay tributes at the memorial. Our next Community Contact Session is on Thursday 21/11/2019 from 11am in the Forest Road café". Thamesmead East ward:- "Attempted burglary - Rushdene Road Sat 9/11/19 between 8:20 pm – 8:40pm. Victim's partner heard a noise from outside when they opened the front door house keys which were previously stolen were on the floor of the porch. No entry was gained as the locks had been change 2 weeks ago. (Victim had previously reported having items stolen from a vehicle 2 weeks ago, one of the items stolen were house keys). Theft of motor vehicle - Landridge Road between Tuesday 5/11/19 5pm – 4am Wednesday 6/11/19. Victim vehicle was parked securely outside home address. When victim woke up in the morning to leave for work the vehicle was missing and there was evidence of broken glass on the ground. Theft from motor vehicle - Please be vigilant – Wolvercote Road. Member of public (MOP) was sitting in a vehicle talking to friends when MOP stated seeing 2 males on the pavement ahead trying the door handle of the vehicle in front. Suspects walked towards MOP vehicle trying the door, when they realised there were people inside. Officers attended carrying out an area search but unfortunately there was no trace of suspects. Rushdene Road Sat 9/11/19 between 7am – 10am Sun 11/11/19 Victim called police to report the theft of both number plates whilst it was parked in the street, only realised by victim after driving to church. Sydney Road Sat 9/11/19 between 12:30pm – 10:45 am Sun 11/11/19 Victim reported both front and rear number plates removed from vehicle, it looked like they had been snapped off". West Heath ward:- "Unfortunately we have had two residential burglaries over the last week. On Thursday November 7th at 6.30pm the occupants of a property in Hollingbourne Avenue were upstairs when they heard a noise coming from downstairs. Entry was gained via the rear of the property and it appears that the door was insecure. Thankfully the suspect was disturbed and made off. On Monday November 11th between 5.43pm and 7.43pm a front door in Lodge Hill was forced, an untidy search of the property was conducted and a set of keys and a car key were stolen. The door to the property was not double locked and the suspect was able to pop the lock on the door in order to gain entry. One theft on number plates from a vehicle parked in Hillsgrove Road between 0200 – 1130am on Sunday November 10th. Another arrest by officers this week for a male wanted for failure to appear at court. The team also assisted at the Remembrance day Parade in Crayford on Sunday November 11th".

Bearing in mind we are shortly to undergo yet another general election, I thought that this week I would feature historic Pathe News footage of the 1965 local bye election. Many of the locations featured in the old film will no doubt be familiar to local residents, but the cars and the fashions mark it out as 1965, as does the practice of the various candidates knocking on people's front doors - something I don't think happens much, if at all nowadays.

The Dartford Raver.

The Maggot Sandwich has a lot of reader feedback and interactive comment this week, which I am very pleased to report; it is always nice to hear responses from readers, and to publish their thoughts on subjects of local interest. Reader Damion writes:- "Not sure if this is up your alley but while walking my dog along the Thames by the Riverside Gardens on Friday (the 1st) I spotted a seal resting on the mud of the river. When I got back to my flat (which overlooks the river)  I took the enclosed photo. It was not of the best quality unfortunately but it was the best I could manage. The seal happily basked in the mud until the tide came in and then it dived below the water, came up a few more times and then disappeared. From research I’m pretty sure it was a Harbour Seal. Shows the Thames is definitely the cleanest it’s been in a long time (what with the Humpback Whale being spotted a few weeks ago too)". Thanks Damion - I too have seen seals in the River Thames at Erith; I am led to understand that on a couple of occasions, seals seen in the river have been misidentified, and reported at people in difficulty in the river, and the RNLI has been called. I agree that seeing top tier predators in the River Thames does strongly indicate that the river conditions must be very good indeed, as the whole food chain must be present for seals and whales to enter the river in search for food. Seals are also commonly seen basking on the shores of the river adjacent to Slade Green Marshes. More on why seals are returning to the River Thames at the end of this update.

On Wednesday lunchtime, Simon Archer, the Priest in Charge of All Saints in Nuxley Road, Upper Belvedere announced:- "I am the Vicar of All Saints in Belvedere and I have just had someone come to the Vicarage needing help and when I turned away for a moment they stole my mobile phone off my desk. This was at about 10.10am. He was about 5’9”, claimed to be French and not speak much English. Mediterranean looking, Short black hair and black beard/stubble. He was wearing a denim jacket which had a bleached look to it. He used some A4 paper to cover what he was doing. Not looking to track him or my phone down but perhaps that might protect others from being targeted. The phone has been blacklisted, the number blocked and it will automatically erase as soon as it is switched on again (along with a message to the person who has taken it, polite of course! I am a vicar after all!). It is only a phone and everything is backed up so I’ve just lost a bit of glass and metal. Sadly as a priest I often get people in a great deal of distress or need turning up on my doorstep. I will not stop offering help, hospitality and welcome I might just be a bit more careful with my valuables next time!" Simon is somewhat more philosophical about the whole situation than I feel that many other people would have been under the circumstances. I know that many people have sympathised with him over the distressing incident. 

Following my article last week on Associated Motor Cycles Ltd, who in case you missed it, were a large and successful manufacturing organisation which was based in Plumstead for many years. They owned three major motor bike brands, namely Matchless, AJS and (latterly) Norton, which were designed, manufactured and assembled in their large factory in Plumstead, as you can see in the photo above - click on it for a larger version. Long time reader and now contributor David tells of his memories of the AMC factory and the people who worked there. He writes:- "I went to Woolwich Polytechnic Secondary School from 1960 to 1965 During those early years I roamed Woolwich and the surrounding area (often classed as 'out of bounds'). One of the best places to go during the warmer days was along the back turnings to visit the factory. The bikes would be wheeled outside the factory by the workers to give the bikes the final polish and inspection. In hindsight I think it was probably to give the workers some time outside! They would let me have a look at the bike and explain many of their features. I wondered at these incredible engineering masterpieces. I can recall the lovely smell the bikes had; a combination of polish and engine oil and fresh paint. It was also an insight into a life outside of the restrictions of a school in the 1960's. I was treated as an inquisitive youth rather than being told to keep quiet (but maybe that's another story). It must have sparked something inside me as I left school at 16 and got an apprenticeship with one of the many companies that lined Woolwich Road. I'm sure it inspired many other callow youths who were allowed to view these bikes. Of course as an apprentice I never had enough money to buy one and by the time funds were available I had moved on to more appropriate modes of transport (a Vauxhall Viva that cost £127). But what those early visits meant was that I wanted to have a hand in designing something as meaningful. A career spent in many drawing offices working on projects such as the Thames Barrier, the onset of Optic fibres and the challenge of incorporating their use in the telecoms industry, and many years in the oil and gas industry. But I think it may well have started with those wonderful bikes". A fascinating account; I must admit until I did some further research into AMC and their factory, I had no idea just how huge the factory and associated outbuildings were. In researching the article last week, I came across the connection between the AMC factory and Oscar winning actor and director Clint Eastwood. Next week I will be writing about another Oscar winning performer who has links with Belvedere. Answers on a postcard please if you can name the person - a clue - gas holder; alternatively, please feel free to leave a comment below, or instead you can Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Over the last couple of weeks, I have noticed a lot of new graffiti on bus stops and in many public areas locally. Unlike the usual highly stylised "tags" the writing is fairly clear and easy to read. The script, written in what appears to be permanent marker reads: "YouTube the Dartford Raver". Unsurprisingly if you input this phrase into the search function of YouTube, the result produced is a channel owned and operated by an individual called Jermaine Kerr, who you can see in the photo above - click on it for a larger version. His videos consist almost exclusively of him dancing around the his bedroom at what appears to be his parents house. He occasionally raps very badly, and seems to be completely unaware of what a complete wazzock he portrays himself as. I really don't think it is some sophisticated satire, or the creation of a fictional online comedic character. He is what he is; and I don't think his campaign of illegal graffiti has been of any real impact. Most of his videos have fewer than a couple of hundred views. I am also aware by publicising this rather immature and silly individual I am giving him the very exposure he desires. You can make your own opinion of Jermaine Kerr, and his "The Dartford Raver" YouTube channel by clicking here. What action the Police or Transport for London will take over his graffiti is open to debate, but Kerr does not seem to have thought through the consequences of his actions.

The redevelopment and improvement of what Bexley Council refer to as "the public realm" - which basically means public open spaces is moving ahead, mostly due to grants and public funding. Some examples of this include, but are not limited to improvements to the entrance to Erith Pier to create a new welcoming Pier Square to create new seating, planting and space for events and recreation.In April 2019 a public consultation on proposed concept designs was undertaken and over the summer a Design Review process has taken place. The design team is now working on updated detailed designs that will respond to the comments made at these two events. The pedestrianised area of Erith High Street outside the former Learning and Enterprise College Units will be decluttered and improved to complement the conversion of the units into a shop and offices and animate an unwelcoming cut through’. Erith High Street improvements will include new street furniture, landscaping and footway materials to create a brighter and more inviting place with a greater sense of safety. The pedestrianised section of Pier Road between Cross Street and Erith High Street will see public realm improvement, strengthening the physical and visual link to the Riverside Gardens, Erith pier and surrounding streets. Spaces will be created for seating, informal play, and green infrastructure. This project is currently at concept design stage, the transformation of Pier Road will introduce a safe shared space experience for cyclist and pedestrians. The vacant unit above the Farm Foods shop on Pier Road has stood empty for a number of years. The Council owns the freehold of the building, the whole of which is on a long lease to Farm Foods. The vacant unit above Farm Foods provides a large space that is important for assisting with decant from other sites. A feasibility study is currently underway to review the capacity of the space and provide cost estimates for an office fit out. Discussions are underway with Farm Foods regarding the Council taking a lease and with potential pre-lets. This proposal would bring added footfall to the town centre adding to its economic vitality. Retaining the open space at Riverside Gardens remains a key priority for the Council and local residents. A project to rejuvenate and refurbish the Gardens has recently launched. With £1.3m funding from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund and additional funding from the council, Groundwork and Orbit, the project aims to upgrade this much-loved open space to improve visibility of and engagement with the river, creating opportunities for the community to use the gardens for play, leisure activities, planting and learning. It will also provide employment training through Groundwork’s Green Team. Designs will be developed in partnership with residents and community organisations, and the Council has commissioned Groundwork to lead this process. During the first stage of the consultation which has recently closed, Groundwork engaged with over 200 residents to hear about the views on the Gardens and gather ideas and aspirations to improve them. Procurement for a landscape architect team to develop the designs for the rejuvenated Gardens is nearly complete. 

Further reader reaction from John who writes:- "Thanks as ever for the little bit of contact with my old home area. It was interesting to read your notes about the Hainault Maternity Home. I managed a visit for a final look at the place briefly in September when I was visiting the area. I was however very interested in the little end video you added to your blog last  week. When I looked through I was astonished to see someone I recognised. The little segment at about 1m 27s into the video showing a gentleman in a greenhouse being interviewed was immediately familiar to me. I believe the man being interviewed with the flat cap was Mr Brown, the then Parks Superintendent. He lived in a lovely house located on the corner of Stephen Road adjacent to the track leading to the parks depot and nursery in Barnehurst. He was the father of an old school and scouting friend, Robert Brown and his sister who I think was Ann Brown. I believe their Scottish father was originally employed in the Royal Estate at Balmoral as a gillie, but later worked at Sandringham where he met his wife. He was well known for playing his bagpipes and I often wondered whether there was any link between the family of the infamous John Brown (played by Billy Connolly in the 1997 film Mrs Brown). I lost contact with my school pal many years ago so it was lovely to see his Father once again in this little video. The house they lived in, along with two others in Stephen Road, were very sadly demolished at the end of 2010 and the site is now the Groveland Park care home. I have great memories of visiting my friend Robert Brown at this house which I believe was actually owned by the Parks Department and also had old steam heated greenhouses in the grounds. The parks department depot was behind their house, but I believe it is all now gone. I attach a snap I took of the house on 8th December 2010 (shown above) before it was finally demolished". Thanks for the information John - I am sure that my readers will find it to be of interest. 

Recently the London Evening Standard's property section ran a story on Erith Quarry - the new housing development on Fraser Road that will include a new primary school as part of the project. The Standard is frequently sniffy and rather condescending about any areas to the South of the River Thames, and the recent article is no exception. The leader reads thus:- "Erith, a somewhat bleak, south-east outpost with a high level of dull social housing in Bexley borough, is one of the few places in London where you can buy a new three-bedroom house for less than £400,000. But with so much Thames-side regeneration and the bonus of Crossrail stations opening next year at nearby Abbey Wood and Woolwich, the future promises better homes and neighbourhoods for priced-out Londoners. Currently the district is a 40-minute commute to London Bridge or Cannon Street. First up is The Quarry, an eco development of 470 houses and 130 flats plus a primary school, park and play areas for children. Prices start at £325,000 for two-bedroom houses, with the low deposit Help to Buy scheme available too". Describing Erith as "Bleak" and "Dull" is to my mind both inaccurate and insulting to local residents. There may have been a time in the 1970's and early 1980's, when the hideous brutalist concrete Erith Town Centre held sway, always smelling as I recall it, of Jeyes fluid and stale wee, but since those low days, things have improved immeasurably in my opinion. What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

The Erith Think Tank have announced details of their next meeting, which will take place on Tuesday 12th November - 7.30pm - 9pm in the conversation room at The Exchange in Walnut Tree Road. All are welcome. The agenda for the meeting consists of a discussion regarding West Street ('small park' - photo of the park above - click on it for a larger version) - Proposal by Tina of an 'activation' to raise awareness of BexleyCo's development plans, and how they might be stopped and / or improved. Brainstorming session to produce an alternative vision, and how we can secure the funds to do it. A presentation from Johnny about his meeting with Anderson's (Tuesday last week) regarding the change in the masterplan of The Quarry development, and the large increase in dwellings proposed on the site. Lastly an informal 'hello' from Princess Adeosun, Community Partnership Officer from Bexley Council, introducing herself, explaining her role, and discussing how she and the Think Tank can work together.

Prior to the regular weekly Neighbourhood Watch reports, a special update from Dana Wiffen, the Chairman, Neighbourhood Watch Office. November is courier fraud awareness month:- "In most cases of courier fraud, a fraudster phones their victim and claims to be from their bank, the police or other law enforcement authority. They then con the victim into revealing their PIN and credit or debit card details. Sadly, the most common victims of courier fraud are the elderly. Examples of courier fraud include; A scammer calls you, claiming to be from your bank or a police officer. They tell you either that: • a fraudulent payment has been spotted on your card that needs sorting out • someone has been arrested using your details and cards You may be asked to call your bank using the phone number on the back of your card. This convinces you that the call is genuine. But the scammer has kept the line open at their end, so when you make the call, you're unknowingly connected straight back to them or their friends. They'll either ask you for your PIN or ask you to key it into your phone. No bank or other legitimate service will ever ask you for your PIN. The scammer then sends a courier or taxi to pick up the card from your home. Even the driver may not know they're being used as part of the scam. Once the scammer has both your card and PIN they can spend your money. A different version of this scam is where you're contacted and told there's a corrupt member of staff at your bank, post office or bureau de change and the police need your help to identify them. They ask you to withdraw a large sum of your money, which the police or bank will mark, then put back into the banking system. They say this will help them identify the corrupt person. Once you hand the cash over, the scammers simply take it. Another example is when a fake police officer phones or approaches you and asks you to buy an expensive watch or other high-value item, to try to find out if counterfeit goods are being sold. Once you've bought the item, the scammer tells you to hand it to a taxi driver for transfer to the police. The expensive item is, of course, taken instead to the scammer's partner. The latest variation is where the scammer contacts you and says your bank account has been taken over and you need to transfer all the funds into a ‘safe account'. Of course, the new account is operated by the scammers, who then steal the funds". On top of this, Dana warns against pick pockets who are targetting vulnerable people in Bexleyheath Broadway:- "As mentioned in previous weeks pick pockets are working Bexleyheath Broadway and they are targeting elderly shoppers. Last week Police reported 5 purses stolen from shoppers in the following shops Dorothy Perkins, Greggs, Cancer Research Charity Shop, Card Factory, & New Look, plus a wallet stolen in the Broadway. PLEASE remind your more vulnerable residents to be aware of their purses/wallets are at all times and to zip up handbags and put wallets in trouser pockets". Now for the regular weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. First the report from Barnehurst ward:- "Barnehurst has suffered two attempted burglaries over the past week. The first one occurred in Holmesdale Grove at 03.00am on Sunday 03/11/2019 where a male is seen attempting to pick the door lock. The male had his hood up and a scarf covering his face. Suspect walked towards Perry Street. The locking mechanism to the front door had recently been upgraded by a locksmith leaving it more difficult for the suspect to gain entry. The second attempted burglary happened in Parkside Avenue again on Sunday 03/11/2019 in the early hours 03.04am. Video footage shows a male approach the front door and was then seen turning the handle, he then walked away and was seen walking in the direction of Northend Road with two other people, one wore a jacket that had a fluorescent strip on the back. Vehicle crime has crept up again. In Cheviot Close on Sunday 03/11/2019 a Sat Nav was found stolen. No damage was found to the vehicle however suspects had to unwire the Sat Nav to remove it from the vehicle. Between Friday 01/11/2019 and Sunday 03/11/2019 in Taunton Close a van was broken into and items taken. On Sunday 03/11/2019 between 06.00am – 0615am in Penine Way suspects have opened the boot of a vehicle and taken items from within however this vehicle had not been securely locked. Not only do we ask you to look at your home security but to consider your vehicle to. Criminals will attempt to break in to properties to obtain keys to vehicles. If you see anyone acting suspiciously in your road especially in the early hours call 999 straight away. Our next community contact session will be held on Tuesday 19th November 2019 at 11.00am in Barnehurst Golf Club". Belvedere ward:- "Burglary update – There was a burglary in Morvale Close on Thursday 31st October. The resident had not fully secured the front door of his home and through the night entry was gained and a laptop and bag were taken. On Friday 1st November another burglary occurred in Battle Road, again overnight, where entry was gained by damaging the rear door of the property. It is as yet unknown what was taken from the location. The team have been busy over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period, with assistance from officers of neighbouring wards (Erith, Northumberland Heath and Slade Green), visiting several wards to keep anti-social behaviour to a minimum. Several searches have been conducted on the ward during this period and drugs have been found. Community Resolutions as well as fines have been issued. PC Holmes and PCSO Worrall visited the Sikh temple last weekend to discuss the upcoming Sikh parade – which takes place on Sunday 17th November. We are continuing to have issues reported to us from a House of Multiple Occupancy on Barnfield Road (top end). If anyone is having issues with anti-social behaviour please contact us". Bexleyheath ward:- "Wednesday 30/10/19 Criminal Damage - vehicle in road being overturned. Wednesday 30/10/19 1555 Theft of BMW from Civic Offices Watling Street. Thursday 31/10/19 1800 – 1900 Palmer Crescent Criminal Damage to x4 vehicles by a group of 20 youths. Thursday 31/10/19 1900 – 1920 Burglary Church Road entry gained by way of smashed rear door – jewellery taken. Thursday 31/10/19 1315-1420 Theft of moped Albion Road car park. Friday 1/11/19 1600 Purse Stolen from bag hanging on bag of children's buggy in Card Factory. Saturday 2/11/19 2000 Royal Oak Road Theft of bus pass from person. Sunday 3/11/19 1800-2100 Theft of Motor Vehicle Long Lane Stolen Truck and Trailer. Monday 4/11/19 0140 Theft from Motor Vehicle Midhurst Hill van broken into and tools stolen – suspects arrested as CCTV images provided. Monday 4/11/19 2300 Theft From Motor Vehicle Number Plates Stolen. Ensure that doors and windows to properties are locked and secured with keys where applicable – revisit home security and lighting now the dark lights are coming. Please be careful with purse/wallets whilst out shopping, make sure they are secured inside your bags with a zip type handbag".

Crayford ward:- "It has been a very busy week for the team with Halloween and Fireworks night. Our police officers have been on late shifts dealing with anti-social behaviour and crime in the local area. Several youths have been identified and are now in the process of being referred for intervention for some, home visits and parental contact have been made for others to make their parents fully aware of the trouble and upset they have caused. Anti-social behaviour has included egg throwing, knocking stock over in shops and being a general nuisance to name just a few issues. A lady has reported that her bank card had been removed and used by a person unknown to withdraw £950 from her account over a few days. She does not know how they got her pin number, this is a timely reminder to keep PIN numbers secret, never disclose them to another person and keep the keypad covered when making a payment or withdrawing cash. On Sunday 27/10/2019 at 03.00 a Mercedes Vito van (RAC) was broken in to in Heath Road and cash and company credit card were stolen. On Friday 1st November a white Suzuki GSXR, number plate FY03USC which had a steering lock and disc lock through front wheel was stolen from Woodside Road, it is believed the bike was lifted. On Sunday 27th October it was reported that a padlock was smashed off a garage in Claremont Crescent and entry gained. Two Gents mountain bikes, a set of golf clubs, bag and electric golf trolley, petrol strimmer and petrol lawn mower were stolen. Diagnostic equipment and a silver BMW, registration S100PON was stolen with keys by two IC3 males from the rear of 31 Crayford High Street on Friday 1st November at 16.28, stolen whilst the mechanic wasn't looking. A black Carrera electric bicycle with accessories which was locked up outside Sainsburys was stolen on Saturday 2nd November between 04.00-07.50. Passenger tyres were slashed on a white Ford Galaxy in Iron Mill Lane between 21.00 on Thursday the 31st October and 08.50 on Friday the 1st November. Other vehicles were also targeted in a similar way but not reported to police. Number plates NL61LKF were stolen off a white Ford Transit it Lower Station Road between 17.30 on Saturday the 2nd November and 09.13 on Sunday the 3rd November. A catalytic convertor was stolen from a blue Honda Jazz onFriday the 29th October between 15.00-17.00 whilst parked in Bourne Road. A black Carrera bicycle with green lines was stolen from Serco at Thames Road on Saturday the 23rd October 06.10-06.30. A burglary occurred at Gable Close on Wednesday the 4th November between 04.00-04.30, two IC3 suspects aged between 15-20 years “popped” the UVPC door and gained entry and searched through coat pockets before leaving empty handed, facial images captured on home CCTV. Please ensure your doors are securely locked when retiring for the night and when leaving your property. More information on how to keep your home secure can be found on www.met.police.uk/burglary It will have been noticed on social media that an incident occurred Crayford High Street on Tuesday the 5th November at about 12.30. What started as a road rage incident observed by police led to the male passenger running from police and the driver of the vehicle attempting to make off with a vehicle being in collision with a police vehicle and street sign. The driver was arrested for several offences not linked to the road rage incident. The victim of the road rage incident was unharmed. Two vehicles were broken in to in the church car park in Old Road on Wednesday the 6th November between 18.45-19.45. A small holdall was stolen from one containing clothes and the other vehicle had a backpack containing a purse, gift cards, credit cards, door keys, glasses, employee smart card as well as other items". Erith ward:- "This last week we had a bike marking event outside Pier road police office. 8 bikes where marked and registered with bike register. I am looking at carrying out some more of these soon, Please email Adam from Erith SNT if you would like to be informed on new dates. Across Erith we are looking at increasing our NHW coverage, IF you know anyone who wants to be a NHW member in Erith let us know Theft from M/V is at a zero this week, best it has been for a good few months". Northumberland Heath ward - no report this week. Slade Green and Northend ward:- "A burglary occurred overnight in Newbery Road on Mon – Tues, 4th – 5th November. Keys were taken to the owners vehicle and subsequently the vehicle was driven away. Access was probably gained by using a gadget put through the letterbox and removing the key or lifting the door handle. If you have a UPVC door please ensure you lift the handle, turn the key and then remove it from the lock. In the early hours of October 31st, 3 vehicle crimes took place across the ward. A moped was stolen from Slade Gardens, a motorbike taken from The Nursery and there was an attempted theft of 2 motorbikes from Lincoln Road. The stolen motorbike was recovered in Bridge Road by our team. All the crimes took place during the same night. A male was arrested in Craydene Road for Failing to Appear in court on other charges. He has since been bailed to allow for further enquiries. Police officers from our team, North Heath SNT and Erith SNT have been working until midnight over the last couple of weeks doing mobile ASB (Anti-Social Behaviour) patrols across all 3 wards and there have been many groups dispersed, stopped and searched". Thamesmead East ward:- "During Halloween, a property in Maran Way had paint thrown at the front door, which cleaned off. Another property in Dalberg Way had a firework put through the letterbox, singeing the draught excluder and slight damage to the door, thankfully nobody was injured. Good news - On Thursday 31/10/19 a male, the team believe to have been responsible for the recent thefts from motor vehicles on the ward was given a 9 months prison sentence. On Tuesday 05 /11/19 PC's Pruden and Quarshie-Awuah arrested a female for failing to appear at court. At another incident, The 2 PC has also conducted four Positive stop and searches for drugs.Sunday 03/11/19 PCSO Hobbs was made aware by dog walkers of an abandoned motor vehicle on the Thames path, behind properties in Greenhaven Drive. The vehicle had been stolen. The owner, contacted by PCSO Hobbs remained with the vehicle until the owner arrived. Bexley Crime Survey the Bexley Community Safety Partnership includes the Council, Police, Fire Brigade, Health and Probation who work together to reduce problems of crime, anti-social behaviour and drug and alcohol misuse". West Heath ward:- "A surprisingly quiet week on the ward in relation to reported crime. We have had no motor vehicle crimes which is fantastic news .One shed burglary in Woolwich road which took place on Wednesday October 30th at approximately midnight, a black and red hybrid pushbike was stolen from a shed. The team have been working long shifts covering both Halloween and Bonfire night this week. One arrest by officers from the team for actual bodily harm".

As mentioned at the start of this week's update, the end video is a short film from BBC London's "Inside Out" current affairs show, and an item on why seals are now coming back to live in the River Thames. Please feel free to contact me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.