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.