The queue.

The scene above will be familiar to most people now; I took the photo whilst queuing outside of Morrison's in Erith one evening last week. Whilst I have heard a few grumbles about the enforced isolation and social separation, most people seem to be taking the new rules and precautions well.  In my experience, the queue moves quite quickly, and only adds a few minutes to the shopping experience. The queue looks long, as people are spacing themselves two metres from each other, but it also moves quickly as a result. On one occasion whilst queuing, an individual jumped over the crowd control barrier and joined the queue in front of me. Before I could say anything, the store security guard intervened - the interloper was removed after some altercation and shouting. I think this was the exception; generally people in the queue are considerate and patient. What do you think? Share your personal experiences with me by Emailing me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

CB radio seems to be making a comeback, with people stuck at home, bored and looking at for them - new ways to communicate with others for free. It seems strange that in an era of online video conferencing with apps such as Skype, Zoom and FaceTime that a nowadays relatively little known hobby that had its roots in the pre - mobile phone era of the late 1970's and early 1980's could be returning to the scene. If you are not aware, CB radio - formally known as Citizen's Band radio is a licence free, relatively short range alternative to Amateur Radio. Citizens band radio (often shortened to CB radio) is a system of short-distance radio communications between individuals on a selection of 40 channels within the 27-MHz (11 metre) band. In the United Kingdom, CB radio was first legally introduced in 1981, but had been used illegally for some years prior. In December 2006, CB radio was deregulated by Ofcom and it is now licence-free. Although the use of CB radios in the UK has declined from its peak, it is still popular, especially with the farming community, Land Rover owners and Mini-Cab services. CB radio was first introduced into the United Kingdom around 1972. Early use was known around the airports in the UK, particularly Stansted in 1973. As citizens band radio has been advertised in the US since before 1962, it is possible that a number of these radios were brought into the UK and used illegally. In the period 1976–1978, CB radio in Britain was much popularised by novelty hit songs and its use in the film Convoy and the usage of illegal CB radio peaked in 1980. Companies in Britain sold US equipment quite openly, and equipment was readily available in car accessory shops. During this time, a great many CB clubs emerged in the UK and they became centres of protest in the march towards legalisation, in the hope that existing equipment could be used legally. In response to this, the government commissioned a white paper proposing a CB service called "Open Channel" around 860 MHz. The big problem for the UK was that the 27 MHz band was already licensed legally to radio control model aircraft users. They were paying for a licence to use the band, and interference resulted in loss of control of the aircraft. Many expensive models were written off, and the safety implications were obvious, but there was no practical way to police a separation, and the government did not rate the protection of model flying as an important issue. The UK Government eventually legalised CB radio, and on 2 November 1981 a CB service was introduced on a frequency band and offset that is incompatible with the imported American radios. At the same time the ownership of non-UK approved 27 MHz transceivers was made illegal except for those obtained by UK radio amateurs. The government initially proposed an FM system on a 928 MHz band with an RF Input power not exceeding 500 mW. This was unacceptable to the CB lobby partly because the low power would give a short range but mainly because the cost of equipment to operate in this band would be prohibitive. The more knowledgeable CB enthusiasts made a counter proposal to use a frequency around 220 MHz. This was immediately dismissed by the government who pointed out that it was a reserved military frequency band. It was subsequently discovered that the frequency had been unused since the Second World War. The government initially refused to relent and continued their insistence on legalising the 928 MHz band. The CB lobby continued to insist that any CB system had to use the 27 MHz band, be AM and a maximum output power of 4 watts (i.e. the US system). Ultimately, the government hinted that they were going to give in to the CB lobby but, as it turned out, only up to a point. CB was eventually legalised on a 27 MHz band but not the band used in the US. Whereas the US used a band occupying the range 26.965 to 27.405 MHz, the UK system was to operate on 27.60125 to 27.99125 MHz. These awkward frequencies would prevent illegal US sets from being modified outside of the type approval system, though it was possible to have existing A.M. radios modified to comply with the new F.M. standard. The choice of frequency would also give the UK electronics industry a head start in the production of unique UK only radios. The system was FM as expected, but one initial surprise was that the power limit was set at 4 watts. The surprise was short lived when it was realised that antenna restrictions would limit the real radiated power to little more than a 500 mW system. A further restriction on power applied if the antenna was elevated by more than 7 metres from the ground. The antenna restrictions were largely ignored and, in the main, un-policed. The government of the day had hoped that UK based manufacturers would be able to compete on a level playing field with foreign (notably Japanese) manufacturers for a share of the potential market. As it happened: the awkward choice of frequencies conspired against this ideal. The frequencies were such that, initially, only one manufacturer in Japan had the capability of producing the frequency synthesiser chips capable of producing the transmission frequencies and the local oscillator signals for use in receive mode. This manufacturer, not surprisingly, refused to supply any UK based manufacturer while it was attempting to keep Japanese manufacturers supplied. In the event, the UK market saturated within a few months and many Japanese manufacturers and UK importers were left with vast amounts of unwanted stock. Within a year of the introduction of CB to the UK, CB radio sets were being given away free with some purchase or other by many of the major retailers. After this, many UK CB radios were relegated to the backs of cupboards or into the loft. From the inception of legalised CB radio, there has been much abuse of the system, with frequent complaints that CB radio was not policed properly in spite of the licence revenues. CB channels still remained busy in many areas, despite mobile phones becoming increasingly common and feature rich. Many of the original advantages of mobile CB have been surpassed by the development of mobile internet access, satellite navigation systems, and the proliferation of other instant communication technologies such as text messaging. The introduction of a new licence free handheld PMR 446 radio service has provided much of the features of traditional C.B., in a small handheld format. This service is not directly comparable with C.B, as PMR446 was intended to provide a short range service. Changes to the UK's amateur radio licensing system mean that it is now possible for people under the age of 14, and anyone else, to gain legal access to most of the UK amateur frequency allocation with only basic technical knowledge.  A small but very active UK CB group still carried on, and several companies sell brand new CB in this country, as a quick Google search will show. It would seem that some of the old CB rigs are being dusted down and put back into use during this period of Covid - 19 lockdown, which to my mind can only be a good thing; a substantial number of CB radio operators "get the bug" and want to go onto other radio related activities - principally getting themselves licenced as an Amateur Radio operator. In many ways Citizen's Band is a gateway that leads on to Amateur Radio. What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

It is rare that I ever celebrate a business going bust; as regular readers will be aware, I am keen to publicise and promote local independent businesses - indeed, more on that theme later in this update. I do not normally comment on stories that make the national news, as there are professional journalists who can report those stories far better than I. Also the Maggot Sandwich has a primary focus on local events and current affairs. I am making an exception in this case however, as I have commented on the subject before, and I feel that it is of interest to many readers. You may have seen in the press over the last week news that the store Brighthouse has called in accountancy firm Grant Thornton as official receivers after the company became insolvent. Whilst I feel sorry for the staff who are almost inevitably going to lost their jobs, I cannot say that I am sorry that the firm has gone bust. For those that may not be aware, here is some background to Brighthouse, their dubious business model, and the people they preyed on. To my mind, the definitive indicator that a town had gone to the dogs is when Brighthouse moved in. I was reading an article recently, in which Karl Dayson, an academic who specialises in the study of affordable finance said that “I can think of no better marker of social deprivation than having a Brighthouse store open in your area”.  Brighthouse were until last week a chain of retailers specialising in household goods such as furniture, washing machines, televisions and cookers. Their unique selling point was that you could purchase goods on credit with no deposit, and with very low weekly repayments. The stores were designed to appeal to young families – the aisles between goods on display were wide enough for a child’s buggy to be wheeled easily along them. Brighthouse offered credit to those who would otherwise be unable to qualify for it – mainly people on benefits. This all sounded great – helping those otherwise unable to afford the basics of a home to get what they need. The downside of it was the eye wateringly high interest rates that Brighthouse charged. Several debt charities expressed dismay at the high charges. A basic washing machine that cost £399 in Curry's would have cost £1,560 from Brighthouse, albeit broken down into “affordable” £10 weekly payments at an interest rate of 69.9% APR. Just like the notorious pay day lenders, the poorer you are, the more you pay for goods and services. Debt advisor Anne Young, who has advised many former Brighthouse customers said “These companies are preying on people who cannot afford to go anywhere else. I do think that they are robbing the poor, when you look at their prices. They are charging a ridiculous amount for goods you can buy on the high street for a third of the price”.  To give an example, a small television which costs £99.99 in Argos would cost a total of £606.84 paid over a total of 156 weeks. Brighthouse argued that their TV was covered against malfunction and accidental damage over the course of the repayment period, but this needed to be set against the fact that you could buy six similar televisions for that same amount of money elsewhere. Brighthouse claimed that if you could find an identical product anywhere on the high street, that they would match the price. This was actually quite difficult, as Brighthouse had a lot of “own name” brands, such as Baird; these were simply not available anywhere else; they also included a number of options that other retailers on the high street don’t, and the pricing structure was so bewilderingly complex that direct comparison was rather difficult.  The demographic for Brighthouse customers is fairly straightforward; a majority are women between 26 and 45 years of age; they earn less than £13,000 a year, and around fifty percent are receiving at least part of their income in the form of benefits. You can really view Brighthouse as a cross between somewhere like Argos and loan company – and its’ customers are overwhelmingly people who did not qualify for a credit card or scored too lowly for a conventional, lower interest loan. The kind of goods that the company sold (furniture / consumer electronics) did tend to depreciate over the course of the loan period, to the point that by the time the loan was fully paid off, the goods were essentially worthless. On top of this, Brighthouse had a policy of repossessing goods if payments were not met, even if the customer was only one or two payments away from completing the purchase.  Normally a court order is required to repossess goods when more than a third of the credit payments have already been met. Brighthouse had a nasty habit of sending round bailiffs without such legal niceties – exploiting the fact that many of their customers were ignorant of the law. All in all, Brighthouse succeeded because they could – their target customer did not qualify for a loan from a conventional source, and was not aware of low cost resources such as credit unions. They relied on the customer being sucked in to the colourful, brightly lit and shiny shop with the promise of low repayments, even if they do end up paying for what seemed like half a lifetime. Fortunately this has now come to an end. The failure of Brighthouse has come over a period of around three years. In 2017, Brighthouse was ordered to pay £14.8 million to 249,000 customers by the financial regulator, Financial Conduct Authority. This was in response to the retailer's inability to pay customers who had cancelled agreements after one down payment. The company at the time was told it had not been a responsible lender. Brighthouse had also been accused of charging excessive interest on lending. In April last year, the FCA introduced a cap on interest and fees companies like Brighthouse can charge. This put the company in a very fragile financial position; the compulsory closure of all of its 240 UK stores under the current Coronavirus regulations meant that Brighthouse cashflow was severely curtailed, and accountants Grant Thornton were called in to wind up the business. Brighthouse may have operated a legal business; whether they operated a moral one is open to debate. What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Local businesses are working on ways to service their customers whilst they are on lock down. The excellent Bexley Brewery have just started a home delivery service. You can join their Email list by contacting shop@bexleybrewery.co.uk  They comment:- "We'll be sending out our new beer and cider list every Monday, so please look out for it. If you don't see an email from us in your in box, please check your junk/spam folder as your server/spam guard may be sensitive to attachments, if there's still nothing there, please drop me an email and let me know. As we did this week, we'll be taking orders on Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, with last orders being Wednesday 12 midday (we have to be very prompt on this). We then start to workout delivery routes and organise the orders ready to deliver from Wednesday afternoon onwards". Another local organisation that is changing to accommodate the quarantine situation is The Bookstore Cafe, which has had to close to visitors. Instead they are also offering a delivery service. Their announcement reads:- "Get The Bookstore straight to your door with our Oven Ready Meal offer. Choose from a selection of meals including pies, curries and hot pots, all for £5 including delivery. Deliveries are made on Fridays. So please let us know what you are after by Thursday 9am. To place an order, follow this link, or give us a call on 01322 341144. We are offering Orbit residents our individual oven ready meals for £2.50, including delivery. Home cooked nutritious affordable ready meals made with the best ingredients by the best local chefs. To find out more, follow this link or give us a call on 01322 341144". Head Chef Louisa Budds is sharing some of her recipes. Download the recipe here, and watch the how-to video below.

Now that a large majority of the UK are working from home, it has become apparent that some of the tools that many use to keep in touch with family and friends - and not to mention work, have come under scrutiny. I don't know if you saw Prime Minister Boris Johnson early last week, when on Tuesday when he shared a screenshot of “the first ever digital Cabinet” on his Twitter feed. It revealed the country’s most senior officials and ministers were using the popular video conferencing application Zoom to discuss critical issues facing the UK. The use of the Zoom software is likely to have infuriated the security services, while also raising questions about whether the UK government has its own secure video-conferencing facilities. The decision to use Zoom, as millions of others stuck at home during the Coronavirus outbreak are doing, comes as concerns are growing about the conferencing app's business model and security practices. Most notably, the company has been forced to admit that although it explicitly gives users the option to hold an “end-to-end encrypted” conversation and touts end-to-end encryption as a key feature of its service, in fact it offers no such thing. Specifically, it uses TLS, which underpins HTTPS (secure) website connections and is significantly better than nothing. But it most definitely is not end-to-end encryption (E2E). E2E ensures all communications are encrypted between devices so that not even the organisation hosting the service has access to the contents of the connection. With TLS, Zoom can intercept and decrypt video chats and other data. Whilst this might not matter for social calls between friends and family, when big corporations, or indeed governments become involved, it is a whole different issue. Despite Zoom offering a meeting host the option to “enable an end-to-end (E2E) encrypted meeting,” and providing a green padlock that claims “Zoom is using an end to end encrypted connection,” it appears that the company is able to access data in transit along that connection, and can also be compelled to provide it to governments. So, it's not E2E. While that is not something that will bother most Zoom users, whose conversations are not highly sensitive nor confidential, for something like a UK Cabinet meeting, the lack of true end-to-end encryption is dangerous. Personal information gathered by the company included, but was not limited to, names, addresses and any other identifying data, job titles and employers, Facebook profiles, and device specifications. It also included "the content contained in cloud recordings, and instant messages, files, whiteboards ... shared while using the service." In other words, it was, arguably, the Facebook of the video-conferencing world, sucking every piece of data it can from you and any device you install it on. Speaking of Facebook, Zoom's iOS app sent analytics data to Facebook even if you didn't use Facebook to sign into Zoom, due to the application's use of the social network's Graph application programming interface. In short, while Zoom’s ease of use, reliability and excellent user interface has made it a godsend for people stuck at home, the company continues to raise red flags about its honesty, its privacy policies and its business model. 

This month marks the 35th anniversary of the first UK cellular telephones going on sale to the general public. The official launch was on the first of January 1985, but for the first few months, phones were almost exclusively sold to corporations and large businesses. It was only at the beginning of April 1985 that the general public could - for a price - buy a transportable phone, such as the model shown above - click on the image for a larger view. The companies we know as Vodafone and O2 today were Racal-Vodafone and Securicor-Cellnet back then; phones were the size of a small suitcase and only did voice calls - no text or apps, let alone any kind of camera or GPS. The two companies had spent the months up to the 1st January launch deadline fighting for cell sites and testing coverage, particularly in London. There was no hint of site-sharing. The services used analogue TACS (Total Access Control System), and later ETACS (Enhanced TACS), as more frequencies became necessary. The analogue calls could easily be monitored using a radio scanner - as in the infamous Princess Diana "Squidgygate" tapes. The cellular service was not actually the first mobile phone system available - there was a Carphone Radio service called Band 3, but that was push-to-talk and all calls had to go through an operator to be connected. Calls were limited as was the number of users. You had to go on a waiting list and wait for a subscriber to close an account before you could buy one. It was complex, limited in coverage and extremely expensive. The first modern, cellular call was undertaken by Vodafone's Michael Harrison, the son of former Vodafone Chairman Sir Ernest Harrison, who was the first to test the system, calling his father at midnight on 1st January, 1985. Michael Harrison secretly left his family’s New Year’s Eve party at their home in Surrey in the UK to surprise his father, calling him from London’s Parliament Square. Harrison made the historic call from one of the first mobile devices – a Transportable Vodafone VT1, which weighed 11lb (5kg) and had around 30 minutes of talk time - more on this groundbreaking device in a bit. Harrison recalls that the line was crystal clear, although the excited shouting of New Year’s Eve revellers in London created considerable background noise. As Sir Ernest Harrison answered the phone, Michael said: “Hi Dad. It’s Mike. This is the first-ever call made on a UK commercial mobile network”. Which isn't quite “one small step” but is better than, “Watson come here I want to see you". The official press launch was held days later at St Katherine’s Dock in London where Vodafone had hired comedian Ernie Wise make the first public mobile phone call. Wise brought the same transportable device to St Katherine’s Dock in London in a 19th century mail coach, using one of the oldest forms of communications – sending a letter – to highlight the speed and convenience of these new mobile phones. Ernie Wise’s call was received at the original Vodafone headquarters, where a handful of employees were based in an office above an Indian restaurant in Newbury, Berkshire. Heavy and cumbersome, the first generation of mobile phones were sold in the UK from 1984 – before the first products were even available and before the network was officially live. Such was the demand for a fully portable, cellular phone that more than two thousand orders had been taken by the Vodafone sales team before Michael Harrison made his call from Parliament Square. By the end of 1985, over twelve thousand devices had been sold. Very soon afterwards a good friend of mine got given a VT1 portable TACS phone by his then employer, British Telecom. The phone was so powerful that when he made trips to the Carrefour Hypermarket in Calais, he could call his Mum to find out what she wanted him to buy, connecting via the British mobile phone cell in Dover (there was no international mobile roaming back in those days).

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly the report from Barnehurst ward:- "Despite the lock down there have been two burglaries on the ward over the last week. Both of these occurred in Parkside Avenue. In both cases entry was gained by the front door. An Audi was taken on the first occasion. However on Sunday morning the suspect was confronted and made off empty handed in a blue Audi A3 or S3 in the direction of Parkside Cross. He was described as a white male in his late twenties with brown hair wearing dark clothing. There was also a theft of number plates in the car park in Badlow Close. Unfortunately since the lock down officers have had to move people on and give strong words of advice to people who continue to flout government advice. Please only leave your premises if absolutely essential e.g shopping for essentials daily exercise, work etc. Please keep safe". Belvedere ward:- "The team executed a drugs warrant at an address in lower Belvedere on Thursday. Cannabis was found at the address and the occupant is being dealt with for possession. Last week the team were extracted a lot from the ward due to the Corona situation. However when assisting Thamesmead Moorings Ward on Friday we stop and search a male for drugs, after a short chase that is. He was found in possession of a quantity of cannabis and lots of cash. Needless to say he is being dealt with for possession with intent to supply. Potentially a lengthy investigation is underway. On Thursday 26/03/20 we had an attempt garage burglary in Lower Park Road. Happened around 23:15. Nothing taken on this occasion but damage caused. Unfortunately this crime type is still happening so please be alert as much as possible while on lock down!" Bexleyheath ward:-"Wednesday 25/03/20 2000 – 2100 Criminal Damage Long Lane windows on vehicle smashed. Wednesday 25/03/20 1900 – 26/03/20 1040 Criminal Damage Long Lane windows on vehicle smashed. Wednesday 25/03/20 2200 – 26/03/20 1330 Criminal Damage Long Lane windows on vehicle smashed. Thursday 26/03/20 0001 – 26/03/20 1545 Number Plates Stolen Royal Oak Road. Friday 27/03/20 1740 Theft From Motor Vehicle Horsham Road. Between Wednesday 25/03/20 1400 and Saturday 28/03/20 1400 Theft From Motor Vehicle Freta Road. A few motor vehicle crimes this week, please continue to be vigilant around your homes and what items you are leaving on display". Crayford ward:-"A practically unheard of report for Crayford this week. At the time of reporting we have had one report of attempted burglary in Inglewood Road, between 22.00 on 29th March and 18.00 on 30 March, whereby the garage door was forced open but nothing appears to have been stolen. We have been actively patrolling the ward and engaging and encouraging our residents to adhere to Government direction. As ever, please call 999 in the event of an emergency, 101 for non-emergencies. You can contact our team directly on 020 8721 2584 or email at Crayford.SNT@met.police.uk Please stay safe". Erith ward:-"As a team we have been out on the ward on Foot and on Bikes patrolling every part of Erith, explaining to residents not to be out in groups and giving them advice which is in line with what the government are saying for us all to keep safe. We have a full team in Erith and are still doing the daily work we always do. Weapon sweeps are being carried out daily and we are now also twice daily visiting all shops in Erith checking everything is OK. Crime in Erith this last week has been low. Crimes of note from the last week Theft from Motor Vehicle Church Road. Theft from Motor Vehicle Maximfeldt Road." Northumberland Heath ward:-"There has been an Attempted Theft of a Motor Vehicle outside Belmont Road , Erith. Victim witnessed a male looking at his motor vehicle outside his home address. The suspect was seen taking photos of the lock placed on motor vehicle. Unfortunately there is no CCTV Evidence or further links for further investigation. Theft from a motor vehicle on Walsingham Walk, Erith .Victim had her rear cluster light and registration number plates stolen. Residential Burglary Northumberland Park ,Erith.Victim returned home and noticed her front door damaged and unlocked . Nothing was stolen from property. This report has been closed as there are no further lines of enquiries. Attempted theft of a delivery vehicle on 116 Hurst Road, Erith. Victim was a delivery driver delivering parcels on Hurst Road when he left the keys in the ignition while delivering the parcels. A witness alerted the victim of a white male trying to get into the victims vehicle. The driver then attempted to remove the male from the vehicle. Another 4-5 Males then approached the driver and ran towards Colyers Lane with the vehicle in situ. The victim had a cut to his head. This was reported by a third party as the victim left and didn't want to wait for police to attend. Police haven't been able to contact the victim for further investigation. SNT will be patrolling Hind Crescent as much as possible. The team are increasing their patrols around all four wards to provide reassurance patrols in the local area. There are no contact points organised for this month . You can always contact the local team on Twitter @MPSNorthHeath or on the ward phone 02087212502. Officers have been patrolling busy areas within the ward to prevent any anti social behaviour incidents while the outbreak of the coronavirus. As most of the shops are closed on Bexley Road we haven't had any ASB reports or theft reported to us recently." Slade Green and Northend ward:- "We had a burglary in Hollywood Way last Thursday between 0800 and 1500. Entry was made via the key in the keysafe and only specific items were taken. Please ensure nobody apart from those trusted have your keysafe code if you have one. Our team currently are patrolling and doing as much as we can to keep everyone safe and indoors. Please remember that anyone out in groups will be stopped and asked to go home if there is no valid reason to be out. This can result in a fine but we will only resort to this method if there are repeat offenders or anyone refusing to comply. We hope you are all keeping safe during these testing times and please let us know if there are any areas that groups are regularly seen congregating." Thamesmead East ward:-"Lensbury Way SE2 on Sat 28/3/20 between 10:40pm – 10:45pm Victim noticed vehicle alarm going off at 22:40pm, when victim went to check, it was found the vehicle had been entered. Items had been taken from the arm rest compartment by suspect/s unknown. Pointer Close SE28 on Sun 10pm – 1:45pm Victim reports motorcycle stolen from location by suspect/s unknown. Mangold Way DA18 on Mon 30/3/20 2:50pm Victim reports windscreen wipers have been removed from both victim's vehicles and left discarded on the ground. Criminal Damage Watersmeet Way SE28 on Wed 25/3/20 between 10pm – 7:45am Victim heard a noise at 10pm but disregarded it at the time, when victim went into the study the following morning the outer pane to the widow was seen to be smashed by suspect/s unknown. Carnoiste Close SE28 Tues 31/3/20 7:45pm – 10:30am victim returned from work to find kitchen window smashed by suspect/s unknown entry to property not gained nothing taken. Good News - A female who was circulated by PC Pruden for stealing a poppy charity box from Taris Shop Yarnton Way in October 2019 was found guilty at Woolwich Crown Court and sentenced to 14 weeks at her majesty's pleasure. On Sat 28/3/20 at 8pm a phone call was received from a relative worried about his elderly brother and sister in law who both have underlying health issues and are self-isolating for 12 weeks on the ward. The couple have not been able to go shopping for essentials and do not have internet or mobile phones so had been unable to organise shopping delivery. PCSO Buckley contacted the couple who gave her a shopping list which she delivered on Sunday. The couple thanked PCSO Buckley stating “it felt like Christmas”.  West Heath ward:-"Excellent news again this week, no burglaries or motor vehicle crime reported to us. Despite the current difficult climate, the team are continuing to conduct proactive burglary patrols on foot and in vehicles. We have conducted weapon sweeps jointly with our colleagues from Crook Log and East Wickham, as part of this weeks' focus on knife crime. We have carried out regular visits to local shops and businesses that are open to reassure both the public and shop shopkeepers that we are still a visible presence. Please remember to keep your distance when shopping, Keep calm and wash your hands!"

The end video this week may well be of particular interest to drinkers of bottled water. It features the story of the ill - fated Dasani brand of bottled water, which got the unfortunate nickname of "Sidcup Spring". Give it a watch and send any comments to hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

Mi Amigo.

Not only did the garden fence at Pewty Acres suffer in the recent storms. but local business The Royal Alfred Premier Store in Manor Road lost some roof tiles and some lead flashing was damaged by the gales. The former pub, on the corner of Appold Street is in a very exposed position, close to the River Thames, and thus quite vulnerable to wind damage. The scaffolding was erected to make access to the roof possible for the workers who carried out the repairs, which apparently only took  a day to complete. The former Royal Alfred pub was converted into a large Premier convenience store with luxury apartments above in 2017. You can see my photos of the interior of the apartments by clicking here. Comments to hugh.neal@gmail.com.

The photo above (click on it for a larger view) was taken a few weeks ago at The Bookstore Cafe in Walnut Tree Road, Erith. It was the first Jazz Lunch to be held, and as you can see there was an excellent turnout. Unfortunately all events at The Old Library are on hold, as is now the case for a great many locations around the UK at present. The Bookstore Cafe is currently not open to visitors, but you can order freshly cooked food to be delivered to your home, as the kitchen is open and working for deliveries only.  The Bookstore cafe is now available on Deliveroo:- The Bookstore Cafe - Opens at 09:00 - £0.99 delivery - £5.00 minimum - The Old Library, Walnut Tree Rd, Erith, London, DA8 1RS. All food is made with fresh ingredients, working with and supporting local producers. All profits generated by The Bookstore Cafe go towards maintaining The Old Library and The Exchange community programme.

Fake news is often used to promote fears. These fears are then used as a means of obtaining access to personal information and money. Fake news and scams have the same root. Before you believe what you are reading and whether you will make a decision on what you have read, you need to consider a number of factors. This especially true in the present situation, with many so called "experts" on the Coronavirus situation holding forth on social media. For example, this week hoax social media messages have spread fears that Coronavirus is being spread at petrol pumps. Twitter posts and Whatsapp messages supposedly from NHS nurses have been shared warning people to wear gloves to prevent "rapid spreading". Public Health England have dispelled the notion that petrol pumps specifically are a worry. A spokesperson said: "Petrol pumps are no worse than other surfaces, although we do recommend people use gloves and wash their hands after using them." Many fake news spreaders have a personal agenda to promote. Sometimes interesting or gratifying or controversial facts, posts and memes are complete fabrications. The fact that tens of thousands of people have ‘Liked’ an article doesn’t prove that it’s true. (Though it doesn’t prove that it isn’t, either). The fact that one or more of your very intelligent and well-informed friends posted it isn’t conclusive proof that it’s accurate, either. Sometimes, very bright people fall for bogus messages because they want to believe them: for instance, because they fit with their political views, or offer some exciting gift, or refer to some threat that they don’t have the technical knowledge to recognise as improbable. Intelligence and omniscience are not synonyms. Sometimes, people just don’t care: they like the story the message tells too much to check it for factual accuracy.  The late scientist and philosopher Professor Carl Sagan produced what he called his “baloney detection kit” – a series of rules to employ when encountering any potential guile or manipulation. “1. Wherever possible there must be independent confirmation of the “facts.” 2. Encourage substantive debate on the evidence by knowledgeable proponents of all points of view. 3. Arguments from authority carry little weight — “authorities” have made mistakes in the past. They will do so again in the future. Perhaps a better way to say it is that in science there are no authorities; at most, there are experts. 4. Spin more than one hypothesis. If there’s something to be explained, think of all the different ways in which it could be explained. Then think of tests by which you might systematically disprove each of the alternatives. What survives, the hypothesis that resists disproof in this Darwinian selection among “multiple working hypotheses,” has a much better chance of being the right answer than if you had simply run with the first idea that caught your fancy. 5. Try not to get overly attached to a hypothesis just because it’s yours. It’s only a way station in the pursuit of knowledge. Ask yourself why you like the idea. Compare it fairly with the alternatives. See if you can find reasons for rejecting it. If you don’t, others will. 6. Quantify. If whatever it is you’re explaining has some measure, some numerical quantity attached to it, you’ll be much better able to discriminate among competing hypotheses. What is vague and qualitative is open to many explanations. Of course there are truths to be sought in the many qualitative issues we are obliged to confront, but finding them is more challenging. 7. If there’s a chain of argument, every link in the chain must work (including the premise) — not just most of them. 8. Occam’s Razor. This convenient rule-of-thumb urges us when faced with two hypotheses that explain the data equally well to choose the simpler. 9. Always ask whether the hypothesis can be, at least in principle, falsified. Propositions that are untestable, unfalsifiable are not worth much. Consider the grand idea that our Universe and everything in it is just an elementary particle — an electron, say — in a much bigger Cosmos. But if we can never acquire information from outside our Universe, is not the idea incapable of disproof? You must be able to check assertions out. Inveterate sceptics must be given the chance to follow your reasoning, to duplicate your experiments and see if they get the same result. Certainly some very thought provoking principles. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

This week marks the fortieth anniversary of an event that has largely been forgotten, but that had a major impact on radio broadcasting in the UK and Europe at the time. It is forty years since the Radio Caroline ship, the Mi Amigo sank in a North Sea storm. The rescue of the crew by the RNLI was so hazardous that the coxswain of the lifeboat was awarded the RNLI's highest honour. The story of the sinking, and the subsequent heroic rescue was told by one of those involved - the DJ Stevie Gordon, who related his memories to The Pirate Radio Hall of Fame. Stevie writes:- "During my time on board Radio Caroline, we worked around the clock in shifts. But little did I realise what was in store for me that March afternoon in 1980 as I headed for my cabin and my usual siesta. “Every man has his 15 minutes of fame” and mine were soon to begin. “You'd better get up, Stevie. We're off the anchor”. Tom Anderson didn't seem unduly worried and indeed our ship, the Mi Amigo, had lost its anchor before and been adrift on several occasions. Not when I was on board though! I was up in a flash and hurried upstairs to find out what was happening. There was a heavy sea but we were used to that and the radio station was broadcasting normally. However my first glance outside showed me that we were not at our usual location. There should have been seven or eight crew on board. The make-up tended to be three or four English DJs, two Dutchmen who read the news and presented a live breakfast show for the daytime service aimed at Holland and Belgium, a transmitter engineer, a cook and occasionally a sailor. However, due to a mix up, although all those who were due shore leave had been taken off, there was only one replacement. Hans Verlaan was on his first tour of duty and had only arrived a few hours earlier. That left just us three Brits who between us knew the ship inside out, and the ship's canary. Looking back, I can see that, with the usual complement, lives could very easily have been lost but at that early stage none of us had any idea how the affair would end. “We'd better get the emergency anchor down!” Tom Anderson again and, yes, he knew how to do it. He had been on board the previous time it was needed. There seemed to be no immediate danger so I told Tom I would, as a courtesy, notify the coastguard but not until the ship was once again at anchor. He made his way forward to the bows and my other English colleague, Nick Richards, went downstairs to see if there was any water in the bilges. There wasn't, but that was the only good news! Tom Anderson was in trouble. The reserve chain was not wound around a drum or stored in a locker but lay in an untidy heap in the forepeak. The anchor itself was mounted above the chain on a slide and secured in place by rope binding. Using a large knife Tom had slashed through the ropes but, instead of sliding into the sea, the anchor sat stubbornly fast on the slide. Watching from the bridge, that was the first time I became aware that this time things might not go as smoothly as before. I could see Tom struggling to get the anchor free and I knew just how easily he could get swept overboard with it. The weather was steadily deteriorating but, just for a moment, there seemed to be a chance. Slowly at first, the reserve anchor was beginning to move. Tom had time to get clear. There was a rush of the chain, the anchor went down and the ship was no longer adrift. Time to notify HM Coastguard. My call was immediately answered and, although at first the fact that we had moved was not known, our new position over a sandbank close to a busy shipping lane was soon confirmed. Then an unexpected question! “We've got a lifeboat out” the coastguard told me. “Do you want to come off?” Surprised, I gave him an assurance that all was well. The ship was back on anchor, I reported, and there was no need for anybody to leave. That information was accepted but I was again told that there was a lifeboat standing by in the area. The six hours since I had been called from my bunk had disappeared. The time was now 9pm, low water, and the Mi Amigo sat ever so gently down on the seabed. For the first time in nearly three days the ship was lying quietly, there was still no water in the bilges, and there was time for a cup of tea. We could now see the lifeboat about a mile away at the edge of of the sandbank and, although we didn't yet have any idea how quickly our situation would change, we would soon be very grateful that it was there. The tide turned, the sea began to rise and once again there was movement in the ship. But what on earth was that awful banging? As the ship rose and fell with the tide, it was banging loudly on something which caused a series of shudders right through the vessel. (Probably what was left of the first chain was trapped between the hull and the seabed.) “There's water in the bilges. We'll need the pump running”. Nick Richards was as confident with the engine room as Tom had been with the anchor. Well, let's hope everything goes alright this time, as well. But the water continued to force its way in to the bottom of the ship. Nick had three very fast pumps running and the water was soon over the bilge plates, which meant the ship had taken in about two feet of water stem to stern. Watching from my station on the bridge I saw Nick making his way along the deck towards the engine room door suddenly waist deep in a breaking wave. I knew then that we would have to abandon ship. Neither of my English colleagues disagreed with my decision but, before we left, the radio station had to be closed down. None of us thought that the ship might be lost forever. We were more concerned about what could happen to the radio equipment if it got wet. Especially if it was still turned on! We were leaving because that was the sensible thing to do. Tom and I made our way to the studio, and Nick went to the transmitter hold to switch off there. We left our new Dutchman in the mess room out of his depth in every way. In a brief final message I told our listeners what had happened and why we were leaving the ship “... hoping that the pumps can take it” added Tom. And my final words: “from all of us for the moment, goodbye and God bless.“And then the four of us were upstairs at the door opening out onto the deck. The time to go had arrived. However there seemed to be no chance of the lifeboat coming alongside. The sea was much too rough. As the Mi Amigo rose on a wave, the lifeboat seemed to disappear in an adjacent trough, and then vice versa. Every time he tried to approach us only the extraordinary skill of the coxswain prevented his lifeboat from smashing into the Mi Amigo. A first attempt to leave from the stern was quickly found to be impossible. If we were to get off, it had to the usual way over the side! Coxswain Charlie Bowry brought his lifeboat up as close as he dared. For a brief moment the two ships stood quietly side by side and Tom and I bundled Hans Verlaan into the arms of the waiting rescuers. After his shaky start in the business, Ton Lathouwers (these days he prefers his given name) went on to become president of Sky Radio and a billionaire! However moments after we had passed him over to the lifeboat the raging sea had pushed the two ships one hundred yards apart. Nobody else was getting off just yet. We looked at each other and then, with a guilty start, Nick asked “What about Wilson?” The ship's canary was named after an earlier Prime Minister and we couldn't just leave him to his fate. Nick flew back into the mess room to get him. Then, once again, the lifeboat managed to close in but this time Wilson in his cage was first across followed immediately afterwards by Nick Richards. That left Tom and myself, and the weather was still getting worse. Quite a few minutes passed before the lifeboat managed to fight its way in and then there it was and it looked good! We couldn't both go. In case of an accident, one of us had to remain behind. Everything happened very quickly! The lifeboat was coming alongside. Tom and I turned to look at each other. “Go on then!” I told him and helped him on his way. No heroics on my part. It just seemed the thing to do. After all, I was the senior announcer even if he had worked for Caroline longer than I. But now I was alone. Too late to wonder if I had done the right thing. I was standing on the top of the deck rail, hanging on for dear life to a stay attached to the broadcasting mast. And there I remained until finally the lifeboat managed one last time to struggle alongside. Charlie Bowry had of course been making numerous attempts, but the storm was too severe and kept pushing him away. But, some twenty minutes after Tom had been snatched to safety, there they were again. Still grasping the stay, I reached out my other arm. Strong hands clamped around it like a vice. I was safe, and my few minutes of fame generated by the attention of the world's press and other media were about to begin". Footnote: daylight revealed that the Mi Amigo had sunk on the edge of a sandbank but part of the antenna was still above water. RNLI Coxswain Charlie Bowry received the RNLI's highest award for bravery for the rescue. Many at the time thought that this was the end for Radio Caroline, but this proved to be very far from the truth. The next chapter in Caroline's history was about to begin.

Radio Caroline returned to the air in 1983 with a huge and very impressive ship - the former side trawler and ice breaker the Ross Revenge, which between 1983 and the hurricane of 1987 boasted a three hundred foot tall antenna mast, which was the highest free floating marine structure in the World. The Ross Revenge remained at sea until November 1991.  My time on board was towards the end of the station's time based at sea. You can see a photo of a very young me above - click on the photo for a larger view. Any semi clandestine organisation tends to attract eccentric characters, and Caroline was no different. In the greater scheme of things, my involvement with Radio Caroline was relatively brief – some people from the time, such as station manager Peter Moore are still hard at it today. My own time with Radio Caroline was between 1988 and 1992; You can see a handful of photos by clicking here. I have a couple of hundred others that are not yet digitised. Initially I was involved with a group of friends who helped run the shore side of the organisation, and arranged for secret supply deliveries to be made covertly to the Radio Caroline ship, the Ross Revenge, which was anchored fifteen miles off the Kent Coast, opposite the North Foreland in an area of sea called the South Falls Head. I made several secret supply runs on a variety of vessels – invariably these would set out from places such as Strood Pier or Ramsgate Harbour at the dead of night, laden down with fresh drinking water, food, technical supplies, new records, letters from listeners and most importantly, magazines and newspapers for the crew to read. At the time I was working as a trainee quantity surveyor for a very prestigious London company. More and more of my time was being taken up with Radio Caroline activities, to the point where I realised that I was going to have to give up the day job – which was not such a big step, as I was struggling with my surveying exams, and had already realised that life on a building site was not for me. I jacked in the job, and six weeks later I found myself on board the Ross Revenge. I had a dual role. In the daytime I was to project manage the complete repainting of the ship from stem to stern (I had encountered a very wealthy Radio Caroline fan who owned a large commercial painting and decorating business West of London, who was happy to supply the organisation with roughly £10,000 worth of high quality marine paint), then at night I hosted a radio show featuring album tracks and various quirky news items. I was fortunate that this all happened in the long and glorious summer of 1990 – the weather was excellent, sea conditions for the most part were calm, and life was good. I have a host of stories from my time with the station – many of which sound decidedly far- fetched, though in those cases I have photos from the period for proof! Several people have suggested that I write a book about my experiences, and maybe sometime I will. To be honest, quite a few other Radio Caroline staff have written books over the years, and I wonder whether I would actually contribute anything worthwhile to the genre. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at sea on the Ross Revenge, and still keep in contact with my old boss Peter Moore from time to time (being honest, working for Radio Caroline is a bit like working for the Mafia – you never really leave). Nowadays, though the station has retained and restored the historic Ross Revenge, it broadcasts mainly online from land based studios located in Strood High Street. Coincidentally, there was a story published this week in The Sun about Radio Caroline and organised trips to visit the Ross Revenge, which you can read here.

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly the report from Barnehurst ward:- "We are pleased to report there has been no burglaries  on the ward over the past week. There has also been no reports of vehicle crime which is really good news. Barnehurst Officers assisted with a Licensing Operation on Barnehurst Ward. The operation was aimed at identifying drug dealers and users of cocaine. Drug testing kits and drug dogs were used to identify potential offenders who were searched accordingly. Arrests were made for possession of drugs. A number of residents from Holmsdale Grove received smart water kits over the weekend. Holmsdale Grove residents were offered the smart water due to the alley ways that run round the rear of the property's. In the past burglars have used these alleys to gain entry to property's with less chance of being seen. Lastly we regret to inform you, due to COVID-19 all community contact sessions will be cancelled as from today". Belvedere ward:- "The office have just had an email from a resident in Belvedere to say - 'Just had two cold callers at the door claiming to be from ‘Money Saving Expert' or ‘Money Expert' to talk about bills during the virus. It's a scam trying to get people to switch energy suppliers. Don't entertain them. They clearly have nothing to do with the well known website by that name'. I also had one of these cold callers knock on my door on Tuesday afternoon and in the evening in Northumberland Heath. It is uncertain as to whether this is a scam or not, but there will always be those who try to profiteer at times like this". Bexleyheath ward:- "Tuesday 10/03/20 Theft or Purse Stolen whilst in M and S Broadway. Wednesday 11/03/20 1745 – 12/03/20 0730 Theft From Motor Vehicle Upton Road. Wednesday 11/03/20 1500 Theft of Purse Stolen whilst in Charity Shop Broadway. Thursday 12/03/20 0105 Theft from Motor Vehicle Broomfield Road. Monday 16/03/20 0825 - 0845 Theft of Phone Belvedere Road. Monday 16/03/20 1415 – 1630 Theft of items from locked locker The Gym, Broadway. Monday 16/03/20 1620 Theft of items from locked locker The Gym, Broadway. Monday 16/03/20 1445 – 1630 Theft from locked locker The Gym, Broadway. Please be careful and do not take valuable to The Gym, Bexleyheath Broadway, as there has been a spate of thefts from the locked lockers". Crayford ward:-"There was an attempted burglary in Marden Crescent on Tuesday 10th March at approx. 9.15, the victim was aware as they received a CCTV alert on their mobile phone. The rear door had tool marks on but entry was not gained. A pedal cycle left outside and unlocked at flats to the rear of Crayford High Street was stolen between 20.00 on Thursday 12th March and 09.00 on Friday 13th March. A catalytic converter was stolen off a Honda whilst parked at Tanners Close between 18.30 on Thursday 12th March and 09.30 on Friday 13th March. A wing mirror was stolen off a vehicle (description not given) whilst parked in Mill Place between 22.30 on Friday 13th March and 08.15 on Saturday 14th March. Another catalytic converter stolen off a blue Honda whilst parked in Ridge Way between 18.00 on Friday 13th March and 09.00 on Saturday 14th March. The rear number plate LV69KCC was stolen off a Ford Transit whilst parked at Kennett Road on Tuesday 17th March. These are uncertain times, we will not be holding community contact sessions for the time being but please be assured that we are here if you need us. In an emergency please call 999, for non-emergency calls please call 101 or go on line at www.met.police.uk. We can be contacted on 020 8721 2584 if you would like to speak to one of the team directly, please leave a message if we don't answer and we will call back when we are next on duty. You can also contact us by email Crayford.SNT@met.police.uk" Erith ward:- "For anyone concerned we are carrying on as normal covering Erith. This will even include working from home for extra hours if needs be. There is 4 teams that work out out of Pier Road police office and we will all work together to help each other out. Just to remind you, you can report non urgent crimes online this will free up our call centre for more urgent calls. Weekly Crimes of note report - Friday 13/03/20 Theft of Motor Vehicle Park Crescent. Saturday 14/03/20 Theft of Motor Vehicle Bexley Road. Saturday 14/03/20 Theft of Motor Vehicle Sandcliff Road. We are looking to see if any of these are linked. Monday 16/03/20 Burglary St Francis Road - entry to flat via front door number items removed. Monday 16/03/20 Theft of Motor Vehicle South Road".  Northumberland Heath ward - no report received this week.

Slade Green and Northend ward:- "Theft of Motor vehicle Friday 13/03 Rainbow Road, Theft of Motor vehicle Saturday 14/03. Overnight on 15-16/03 there were 3 Theft From Motor vehicles recorded all on the Frobisher Road estate including Power tools taken from a van. Burglary between 7pm and 7.15pm on Saturday 14/03 at Wessex Drive. Rear patio door left unlocked and items stolen, the suspect was disturbed by the victim. Aggravated burglary on Manor Road at 1145pm Sunday 15/03. Victim was injured in the seemingly motiveless violent incident. CID are investigating. Reassurance visits and patrols have been made by SNT officers. PC's Mark and James have had 2 positive drug stop and searches with the relevant warnings given. This week's crime prevention has been based around moped crime. In particular the garage area behind the shops in Bridge Road was checked where stolen bikes are often found. All garage areas are being checked. At this moment, we are working as normal during the coronavirus situation except all engagement activities have been cancelled for now. We will try and keep you updated during this difficult and unprecedented time of any major news. In the meantime, please keep an eye out on any vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours". Thamesmead East ward:- "Lensbury Way Wednesday 11/3/20 6:30pm – 12/3/20 5:50pm Victim states Vehicle broken into by suspect/s an untidy search of glovebox nothing reported taken. No damage to vehicle seen. St Katherine's Road Saturday 14/3/20 7pm – Sun 15/3/20 1:30pm Catalytic Converter removed by suspect/s unknown from victims vehicle Honda Accord. Criminal Damage - Harrow Manor Way Saturday 14/3/20 5:30 – 6pm Victim reports hearing a loud bang downstairs when investigated the kitchen window in the property had been smashed by suspect/s. A brick was found on the front lawn". West Heath ward:-"One attempted burglary this week in Exmouth Road. This incident took place on Wednesday March 11th between 10.30 – 15.00. The resident came home to find the barrel lock on the front door had been tampered with. Her key bent as she attempted to put in the lock. Entry to the property was not gained. Theft of number plates from a vehicle parked in Hurst Lane. This incident took place between Monday 16/03/20 15.00 – Tuesday 17/03/20 -12.00. Theft of a black Mercedes from a driveway in Dryhill Road on Wednesday 18/03/20 at 01.30 when the tracker on the victim's phone was activated. There is no further information regarding the location of the vehicle at this time. The team have made three arrests this week so far, these arrests were made as a direct result of stop and searches. The arrests were for non-payment of fines, possession of an offensive weapon and possession of a knife".

The end video this week is pretty topical; it features American TV chef and expert in the science of food and cooking, Alton Brown, giving a demonstration in a very effective way to wash your hands. Comments to hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Jazz Sundays.

The photos above - click on each for a larger view, were taken by me last Sunday at the very first "Jazz Sunday" event, held in The Bookstore Cafe in The Old Carnegie Library in Walnut Tree Road, Erith.  As you can see the cafe was packed with visitors for the two hour live jazz show. Many of the visitors also had brunch whilst listening to the music. The Bookstore Cafe is phase one of the refurbishment and re-purposing of the old library. Phase two - work to convert the ground floor, where the main library space is located, and the upper floor, which used to house Erith Museum, and the former private apartment that once was home to the chief librarian and family is now due to start in the Spring. An announcement was made earlier this week, which reads:- "London Borough of Bexley and The Exchange have successfully secured National Lottery funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to restore the entire Grade II listed Old Carnegie Library in Erith. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has committed £980,000 towards a £1.8m project that will transform the upper two floors of unused space into new community workshops for textiles, woodwork, print, ceramics and gardening. The main central hall will be refurbished for community-led activities, including markets, exhibitions, festivals, concerts and performances. A unique local garden will also be created by the award-winning garden designer Sarah Price, with much of the growing, done by local school children and families. Councillor Louie French, Bexley’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Growth said: “This latest round of funding is good news for local people as it means that the entire building can be brought fully back into use for the benefit of the community.” “It’s a year since we finished the first phase of our investment, which saw the restoration of the lower ground area, the weathervane and full replacement of the roof of the building. We’ve been working hard with our partners since then to ensure that the rest of this beautiful building can be fully restored and it’s good to see that our hard work has paid off.” In February 2019, as part of its partnership project with the Mayor of London, the ‘Greater Erith Programme’, Bexley officially handed management of the building to local company The Exchange. Since then there have been more than 25,000 visits to the  building with local people participating in a variety of community activities and events and enjoying its new bar and café ‘The Bookstore’. The Exchange, with the help of partners, have also continued to source and secure additional funding.  Sarah Batten, Co-Founder of The Exchange, said: “The success of our National Lottery application is down to the Erith and wider community who have given us so much support over the past 12 months. With every visit to the café, every event attended, every kind donation or offer of support, it becomes more and more evident that this new future for the building can be achieved. There is still more work to be done, and funds to be raised, but we are confident that the beautiful historic building’s future will be secured.” Stuart McLeod, Director London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “Thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, the historic Old Carnegie Library will be brought back into use for the community of Erith. An exciting programme of events and activities will ensure the heritage of the building and the stories of the people who have passed through its doors will remain at the heart of its future.” Over the next 12 months, the ambitious renovation works will take place alongside a packed events programme including both free and paid events including:- FREE: Family Craft Weekends, last Saturday of every month from 2-4pm • FREE: Jazz Sundays, on the fourth Sunday of every month from 12-2pm in The Bookstore • FREE: Open Mic nights, on the third Thursday of every month from 7.30-10pm in The Bookstore, to hear local talent from rapping and poetry to blues and folk • FREE: Embroidery Sundays: stitch, connect and chat every Sunday from 11-1pm in our Textile workshop • FREE: History tours of The Exchange, every Saturday from 3pm • Life Drawing classes, every Thursday from 7-9pm, £8 per session • Carnegie Ensemble concert, 24th April 2020, £10 • FREE: An exhibition of new design work inspired by the works of Bexleyheath resident William Morris, from 18th March in The Bookstore • FREE: Mother’s Day Weekend Plant Fair and workshops with Peckham partners L’Appartemente" I have to declare an interest; as some readers will already be aware, I am a governing board member of The Exchange, and I am the one who runs the weekly free tours of the old library building each Saturday afternoon at 3pm. No need to book - just turn up - the tour lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the number of tour participants and how many questions they ask.

In case you were wondering what happened last Sunday, when the customary Blog update Email did not appear. Let me explain. Every week, once the latest edition of the Maggot Sandwich has been published, I Email a select number of people to let them know that the latest edition is live. I use Google Gmail as my Email client of choice. At some point last week, Google changed their Email message rules. This was done to try and reduce Spam Email. When I send an update via Email, I blind copy (BCC) all of the recipients into the message. This keeps everyone's Email details private, and for many years this has worked very well indeed. Now blind copying in numerous Email addresses has been banned by Google - an absolute pain for me. The Blog update was still published - as you may be aware, I have not missed a Blog update every Sunday for thirteen and a half years - something that I am very proud of. The Email update may be history however. If this was not enough, my venerable Apple iMac computer has bitten the dust. It died in the middle of last week - looks like a hard disk failure - this Blog post has been courtesy of my tiny Raspberry Pi model 4 B emergency backup computer. Last Sunday I spent around 90 minutes online with Google support. Normally one cannot get proper support from the company - you just get sent links to a load of FAQ's and hobbyist chat rooms, but I have a paid Google account - which means excellent, professional support. Google suggested setting up a Google Group, which would enable me to send one email which would then go to all members of the group. The downside is that there is no way to automate the process of adding all of the members of my Gmail address book - each one needs to be manually copied and pasted. This will take me an age to do. On the upside, I have noticed that not sending out an Email update last week has actually not hurt my readership statistics one bit. I use Google Analytics to get an idea of what my audience like and dislike, and their general Blog reading habits. I fully expected that my reading figures were going to drop off a cliff - but this has actually not been the case at all; I am going to carry out an experiment over the next couple of weeks. I will carry on publishing a Blog update on Sunday early afternoons as I have done for so long, but I will not send out an update message (mainly as things currently stand, I cannot anyway). If the readership statistics stay as good as last week, then I may ditch the setting up of a Google group altogether, as nowadays I don't have as much free time as I used to. Don't worry - the Maggot Sandwich will continue as normal - nothing is changing as far as it is concerned. Comments to hugh.neal@gmail.com.

News reaches me that as predicted, Bexley Council have approved plans to build flats on the parkland in West Street, despite the protests and online petition opposing the plan. Local organisations including Friends of Riverside Gardens Erith (FORGE) and The Erith Think Tank organised a protest in December of last year - photo above - click on it for a larger version. The council vote was close 5 members voted for the redevelopment plans, and four against. Local Resident and FORGE founder, Joan McCarthy read a speech at the council meeting, opposing the plans to build on the popular and well - used park. Here is her speech in full:- "Thank you Chairman and Councillors for giving me the opportunity to speak and I would ask you to bear in mind the following points which all contribute to the London Borough of Bexley being a green borough to be proud of. The description “Land at the Junction of Macarthur Close and West Street” is misleading. It suggests the land is unused and superfluous to requirements.  It should be described as “West Street Small Park” as it is correctly named in the list of 100 parks and open spaces on Bexley’s own website. This is a mature small park planted with trees and grass which was specifically provided by the Council for the use of local residents when West Street was part of a General Improvement Area c. 1984. If approval is given to this application it would be in direct defiance of a planning condition imposed by this Council on the developer in 2003 when the adjoining blocks of flats were built;  namely, that this then well established little park should remain as is and left to mature – which it has done!  If conditions imposed by the Council can be overturned a relatively short time later how can we have any trust in the Council’s Planning and Legal departments? We cannot see how, in these circumstances, approval can be given to this application which would mean the loss of one of the most beautiful small roadside parks in the borough A well loved park used by residents and visitors with safe and easy access to the Thames Pathway. This application would destroy most, if not all, of the matured trees (approx. 30) in this lovely little park at a time when the Government is proposing that millions of trees should be planted to combat climate change.  Each of these doomed trees provides as much oxygen in a season as 10 people breathe in a year.  They are essential to mitigate the effects of the heavy volume of traffic emissions containing particulate matter which is deadly, especially to the young and elderly. These trees protect us from flooding and extreme heat by reducing temperature by about 7 degrees Celsius.  Also, insect life in mature trees cannot be replaced if they are felled. The Council’s website states that there are 623 hectares of open space in Bexley Borough. Erith has just over 5 hectares and this small park is 0.3 hectares.  How can the loss of this park be justified considering Erith has the least amount of open space compared to the rest of the Borough? This park is an essential “green break” between the extended Riverside Gardens to the east and the Council maintained churchyard of St. John the Baptist (which dates back to Saxon times) at the western end of West Street". What do you think? Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

As I have written in the past, Erith and Crayford were the historic home of Vickers Sons and Maxim Limited, who had factories in both locations which made a whole range of armaments and ammunition, principally the Vickers Machine Gun – which was an easier to produce, lighter and cheaper version of the original Maxim Gun, invented by Sir Hiram Maxim - the most famous local resident. What is less well known is that Vickers Vimy heavy bombers were also constructed on a limited basis. It is thought that the aeroplane which transported Alcock and Brown on the historic very first flight across the Atlantic was one of those produced locally. In the present the fact that both Erith and Crayford were major arms manufacturing towns is unknown to many residents; indeed the only relic of the Vickers Sons and Maxim factory in Erith is that the area of shops and houses located at the bend where Woolwich Road becomes Fraser Road is still known by older locals as “The Pom Pom” – due to the sound of guns being tested in the dedicated shooting range that was adjacent to the factory for many years. I think it sad that many people still call the area by the informal name, but very few seem to know the actual reason for it. Nowadays one could be forgiven for thinking that all of the changes that have happened over the years that arms manufacturing was no longer something that no longer happened locally. In matter of fact nothing could be further from the truth. Slade Green is home to a company, which until 2014 was known as Manroy Engineering, and is now called FN Herstal - a company that specialises in the manufacture and refurbishment of machine guns and light cannon for the military. They also make all sorts of weapon mounts, gun turrets for armoured vehicles and assorted other military hardware such as specialised sniper rifles and vehicle armour packages. They keep a very low profile for security reasons, but they are actually located on the Power Works site on Slade Green Road, opposite  St. Augustine's church. It is amazing what a little bit of searching on Google Street view can find! Anyway, the Vickers machine gun or Vickers gun is a name primarily used to refer to the water-cooled .303 British (7.7 mm) calibre machine gun produced by Vickers Limited, originally for the British Army. The machine gun typically required a six to eight-man team to operate: one fired, one fed the ammunition, the rest helped to carry the weapon, its ammunition and spare parts. It was in service from before the First World War until the 1960s, with air-cooled versions of it on many Allied World War I fighter aircraft. The weapon had a reputation for great solidity and reliability. Ian V. Hogg, in the book Weapons and War Machines, describes an action that took place in August 1916, during which the British 100th Company of the Machine Gun Corps fired their ten Vickers guns continuously for twelve hours. Using 100 barrels, they fired a million rounds without a failure. "It was this absolute fool proof reliability which endeared the Vickers to every British soldier who ever fired one.” The Vickers machine gun was based on the successful Maxim gun of the late 19th century. After purchasing the Maxim company outright in 1896, Vickers took the design of the Maxim gun and improved it, reducing its weight by lightening and simplifying the action and substituting components made with high strength alloys. A muzzle break was also added. The British Army formally adopted the Vickers gun as its standard machine gun on 26 November 1912, using it alongside their existing Maxims. There were still great shortages when the First World War began, and the British Expeditionary Force was still equipped with Maxims when sent to France in 1914. Vickers was, in fact, threatened with prosecution for war profiteering, due to the exorbitant price it was demanding for each gun. As a result, the price was slashed. As the war progressed, and numbers increased, it became the British Army's primary machine gun, and served on all fronts during the conflict. When the Lewis Gun was adopted as a light machine gun and issued to infantry units, the Vickers guns were redefined as heavy machine guns, withdrawn from infantry units, and grouped in the hands of the new Machine Gun Corps (when heavier 0.5 in/12.7 mm calibre machine guns appeared, the tripod-mounted, rifle-calibre machine guns like the Vickers became medium machine guns). After the First World War, the Machine Gun Corps (MGC) was disbanded and the Vickers returned to infantry units. Before the Second World War, there were plans to replace the Vickers gun. However, the Vickers remained in service with the British Army until 30 March 1968. Hundreds of thousands of these guns were manufactured in Erith and Crayford over several decades, and during both World Wars, this meant that the towns were legitimate wartime bombing targets. During both World Wars, the area economically benefited – for example in 1914, the number of trams run in Crayford and Erith was increased to transport the large number of munitions workers many of whom worked for Vickers making ammunition for use on the Western Front. With most of the young men volunteering for military service (conscription was yet to begin) many women entered paid employment for the first time, something that directly led to the start of female emancipation with the Representation of the People Act 1918. I have written at some length about inventor and businessman Hiram Maxim in the past; Maxim was American born but later naturalised British. He invented the sprung mouse trap, the first practical machine gun, the incandescent light bulb (though he famously failed to get the patent registered before Thomas Edison and Joseph Swan) and  the first heavier than air aircraft. After moving to England in 1881, Maxim began his aerial experiments at Baldwyns Park near Bexley Village, in the late 1880's, leading to the construction in 1893 of his enormous biplane Test-Rig, which weighed about three and a half tons. The machine's two steam engines each produced 180 horsepower. and turned two pusher propellers each 17-1/2 feet in diameter. Since the device was intended to be a test vehicle it was held to a track, preventing it from rising more than a couple of feet. On the Maxim Biplane Test-Rig's third test run, on July 31, 1894, with Maxim and a crew of three aboard, it lifted with such force that it broke the reinforced restraining track and careened for some two hundred yards, at times reaching an altitude of two or three feet above the damaged track. It was believed that a lifting force of some four and a half tons had been generated. After this, Maxim allowed his assistants to demonstrate the flying machine on a number of additional occasions, but he took no further part in the development – he rightly realised that the machine was a design “dead end” as it lacked practical flight controls. It was not until 1903 that the Wright Brothers worked out their system of ailerons and rudders that made flying practical and controllable. 

The weather over the last couple of weeks has been notoriously atrocious. Much has already been written about the subject, and I don't want to repeat what has already been said. One thing that it has highlighted is something I have mentioned in the past, but I feel that needs to be restated. There is understandable concern and public interest in the current coronavirus outbreak, yet there is a risk of infection from another source, and it is far more likely that you will encounter it. People who put their feet on the seats on public transport is something that winds me up no end; not only is it antisocial, but it is extremely unhygienic. Even if the culprit has not directly stood in a dog turd, the harmful bacteria from excrement is washed all over every pavement when it rains and everybody gets faecal bacteria on their footwear, whether they know it or not. It is only after a period of bright sunshine that the Ultra Violet light from the sun kills the micro organisms, but for much of the time in winter the footpaths and streets of Britain are literally awash with harmful bacteria, mainly from dog droppings. When someone puts their feet onto a bus or train seat, they transfer some of this bacteria onto the fabric of the seat, where it can live quite happily for several days. In that time, multiple bottoms will have sat on the invisible bacteria colony, transferring some of them for another ride on an unwitting hosts' clothes. The person has only to touch the invisibly infected area to pass harmful bugs onto their hands, and from there, virtually anywhere. This is one of the main reasons that when you visit a hospital or nursing care home, you are strongly encouraged to use antibacterial hand gel, which is normally supplied in a dispenser by the entrance. A good wash with soap and hot water will do pretty much the same, if like me you are sensitive to the gel. I have been told by a couple of medical professionals that about a third of infections blamed on MRSA in hospitals and nursing homes are actually caused by canine faecal bacteria transferred from visitors' clothing. Think on this next time you see someone putting their feet on a seat. 

I came across the advert above in an old map of Erith that I have had for absolutely ages. It was old when I was given it. Hedley Mitchell was the largest and by far the most important shop in the old Victorian Erith town centre. It was the towns' department store, and as large and grand as Hides in Bexleyheath. Many older local residents recall Hedley Mitchell with great affection. The store had a very high reputation for formal service. It was the first building to be demolished when work began to create the new (and subsequently much hated) brutalist concrete shopping centre in 1966. In fact the first act of demolition was carried out by the then Deputy Mayor, Councillor Mrs M Barron, ceremoniously smashed the window of Hedley Mitchell's store to mark the commencement of the demolition of Erith Town Centre to make way for redevelopment. As a consequence, all the existing Victorian buildings were lost. With hindsight, this was a terrible mistake - the existing town centre should have been sympathetically restored. I gather that this was considered, but would have cost too much money; instead they built a relatively cheap but undeniably ugly replacement out of bare concrete. I don't know anyone who had a good word to say about it. Consequently a lot of businesses upped sticks and moved to Bexleyheath or Northumberland Heath, and it is only now, over fifty years later that much of the social and economic damage is being put right. The current Erith Riverside Shopping Centre is actually a very clever redesign of the much hated sixties structure, rather than a ground up new build, but it has been done with taste and sensitivity - something entirely missing in the original, which was a smelly and soulless concrete monstrosity, detested by all.

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. The photo above shows Neighbourhood Watch coordinators who attended the Yorkshire Building Society at Broadway, Bexleyheath, to assist at a fraud awareness event, at which they were informing people all about scams. They have been invited back for regular events and look forward to seeing people there in the future. Barnehurst ward - no report this week. Belvedere ward:- "From Neighbourhood Watch Member - in Flaxman Court -Flaxman Court is a block of flats for elderly people (independent living). On 21st February someone allowed access to, two door to door salesmen which is not allowed. The men were very forceful and I can only describe them as ‘bullying' in an attempt to get the residents to buy items. However, I immediately informed the scheme manager who spoke to the men and asked them to leave the building which they did after being very verbal. From Police SNT Team - PCSO Robert Holmes:- On Friday 21/02/2020 we had a burglary in Ashburnham Road. A male had gained access via the front door but was seen and disturbed. Nothing taken and no damage caused. Over a two week period there was also a burglary in Eardley Road. The house was unfortunately ransacked. The suspect(s) had gained access via the rear door, causing damage. Unknown what was taken at this stage. We have had several thefts from motor vehicles recently on the ward. Please do take all valuables out of your vehicles and do not leave anything on display which might tempt a thief!" Bexleyheath ward:-"Monday 17/02/20 2000 Robbery Personal near Premier Inn Albion Road Head Phones and watch. Monday 17/02/20 1715 Robbery Personal Pushbike Stolen Council Offices Watling Street. Tuesday 18/02/20 1130 Purse Stolen from bag inside Library in Townley Road. Tuesday 18/02/20 0100 Criminal Damage nail in tyre Long Lane. Tuesday 18/02/20 1500 Attempted Theft Person Phone attempted to be taken from victims hand whilst using it Broadway - nothing taken.Wednesday 19/02/20 0330 – 0410 Burglary Business unknown items taken. Tuesday 18/02/20 1817 Theft from Meters Albion Road Car Park cash stolen. Thursday 20/02/20 1400 – 1430 Theft Person Phone taken from pocket Hospice Shop Broadway. Thursday 20/02/20 2000 – 2100 Theft of Motor Vehicle Swanbridge Road van taken keys still in victims possession. Saturday 22/02/20 0100 – 0615 Business Burglary Broadway cash and computer stolen. Saturday 22/02/20 2110 – 2115 Att Robbery on bus near Arnsberg Way - nothing taken. Friday 21/02/20 0900 – 1000 Burglary Bike Shed Clocktower Court 2 x pushbikes taken. Saturday 22/02/20 0700 Theft From Motor Vehicle Number Plates Stolen Hyde Road. Thursday 20/02/20 1200 – 1630 Theft of Motor Vehicle Albion Road. Tuesday 25/02/20 1510 – 1620 Theft from Motor Vehicle Catalytic Converter Sainsbury's car park. Tuesday 25/02/20 0945 – 1030 Theft of wallet on bus near Albion Road". Crayford ward - no report this week. Erith ward:- "Theft from and of motor vehicles is up. Please see the crime advice: Car security at home. Where possible ensure that your vehicle is parked on your driveway or in your garage if you have one. Alternatively, ensure your vehicle is parked in a well-lit area. Have an alarm and immobiliser fitted if your vehicle doesn't already have one. This is an effective way of deterring criminals. A Thatcham-compliant immobiliser or steering lock can help secure older vehicles. Locking wheel nuts are cheap and easy to fit to prevent your alloy wheels being stolen. Catalytic converters can be marked using a specialist metal security marking chemical and secure labels to warn potential thieves that the catalytic converter carries an identification mark. Securing your motorbike or scooter. If your motorbike or scooter doesn't already have one, consider having a Thatcham or Sold Secure approved electronic immobiliser professionally fitted. Ask your insurance company which devices they would recommend that will not invalidate your policy. If you have a security device fitted, always use it. A wide variety of locks can be used, such as chains or padlocks, disc locks and D locks. The most important thing to remember is to secure your motorbike to a solid object that can't be moved. Always put your steering lock on. When you are not using your motorbike or scooter, put it in your garage or a secure outbuilding with a fixed or ground anchor to secure it to inside the building. Don't leave your garage open and make sure your vehicle is covered up, even when you are at home. Crimes of note for the week Theft from Motor Vehicle Thursday 20/02/2020 Carrack House, Saltford Road. Theft from Motor Vehicle Friday 21/02/2020, Riverdale Road. Theft of Motor Vehicle  Sunday 23/02/2020, Chandlers Drive. Theft of Motor Vehicle Sunday 23/02/2020, Callender Road. Theft of Motor Vehicle Monday 24/02/2020 South Road. Theft from Motor Vehicle Monday 24/02/2020 Holly Hill Road". Northumberland Heath ward:- "Good news this week we have had no Burglaries reported within the last two weeks but unfortunately we have had several reports of theft from and theft of motor vehicles. Theft of pedal cycle from Belmont Road. Theft of motor vehicle - Vauxhall Grandland Estate from Bexley Road . Vehicle was then recovered a few days later. Theft of motor vehicle – Fiesta Ghia from Brook Street, Erith. Attempted theft of a motor vehicle on Northumberland Park. Victim found a strange key in the ignition and the the wires had been ripped out from underneath the dashboard. Theft of number plates from Penda Road, Erith". Slade Green and Northend ward:- "Only one crime of note this last week, a vehicle was stolen from Betsham Road between 1700 and 1900 hours on Friday 21st Feb. The owner was alerted after the van was seen by a friend in Springhead Road but not being driven by him. No further information at this stage". Thamesmead East ward:-"Burglary Residential - Walsham Close Monday 17/02/2020 13:00 - Monday 17/02/2020 13:02:00 Keys to the property were hung up behind the door which was insecure. Suspect/s have opened the door removed car keys stolen victim's vehicle. Motor Vehicle Crime - Kale Road, Trefoil House Sunday 16/02/2020 14:00 – Monday 17/02/2020 08:30 suspect/s have gained access to vehicle by unknown method, causing damage to rear seats as they attempted to gain access into the boot. Handbag containing keys stolen from inside vehicle. Lensbury Way Monday 17/02/2020 13:00 – Friday 21/02/2020 11:00 Catalytic converter stolen from Honda Accord by suspect/s unknown. Glimpsing Green Tuesday 18/2/20 06:40 – 08:20 victim parked car at location on returning to the vehicle it was found the rear windscreen had been smashed by suspect/s. Sydney Road Thursday 20/2/20 22:00 – Friday 21/2/2020 19:00 Motor vehicle stolen. Leatherbottle Green 21/2/20 15:00 – 17:00 victim reports suspect/s have stolen his motorbike. A neighbour stated they saw 2 men loading the bike onto a trailer. Wolvercote Road Friday 21/2/20 18:00 – 15:00 Saturday 22/2/20 unknown suspect/s have removed Catalytic converter from Honda Civic. Baylis Avenue Sunday 23/2/20 09:30 – 11:15 Victims reports upon return to vehicle the passenger front window has been smashed beyond repair by suspect/s unknown. Hinksey Path Monday 24/2/20 08:35 – 08:58 victim reports Toyota Corolla broken into via smashed driver's side window nothing taken". West Heath ward:- "One burglary reported to us in Amberley Road this week between the hours of 1200 – 22.28 hours on Friday February 21st. It is not known at this stage of the enquiry how entry was gained or if anything was taken. Theft of a front number plate in Axminster Crescent Wednesday February 19th 170 – Thursday February 20th 11.30. The team have been busy as usual conducting High Visibility patrols in uniform and plain clothes across the ward. One arrest was made this week for domestic criminal damage, and a youth found in possession of cannabis was interviewed at the station. Further drop in surgeries at the Library in Bostall heath will be advertised shortly".

The end video this week is a bit of a promotion for the local area. Let me know what you think; you can Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.