Purple Willows.

Thanks to the eagle eyes of a reader, a mystery has been uncovered. It would appear that the redevelopment plans submitted by Bexley Council to its own planning department in respect of the scheduled improvement works to the garden and seating area at the entrance to Erith Pier have been suddenly withdrawn. The plans had included improved seating, new planters, and a children's play area, amongst other features designed to improve the public realm. The upper image above shows the current layout of the Pier Square entrance in Wharfside Close, and the lower image outlines the area that had been scheduled for improvement by the council. After some investigation by a source within Bexley Council, I was informed that:- "The current planning application for Pier Square was for outline consent and was submitted last year primarily to get early feedback on potential parking and traffic management issues. The process has been really helpful and we now have enough information to address these concerns and move forward with the project. However, the designs were only at early concept stage so the project required a further application full with detailed designs, transport statement and technical packages etc. This week, the planning officer advised we withdraw the current application to make way for a full planning application which will be made in September. The project is still very much going ahead and this was just an administrative requirement. I’ll ask Development Control if it would be possible to add a couple of lines on the planning portal to explain the application will be superseded with a full planning application in September and I will update the Comms team accordingly". Good news; the area around the entrance to Erith Pier could do with some upgrading, as it has remained almost untouched since it was created in 1999. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

The former Cairngall Medical Centre in Erith Road, Upper Belvedere (photo above - click on it for a larger version) is to re-open as the Purple Willows children's nursery and day care centre in October of this year. The new nursery will be offering 92 places and will be split into baby suite, toddler room and Preschool class with each room designed with modern equipment and excellent resources to meet the needs of the children. The nursery will also provide a multi-sensory room to encourage children to explore their environment and increase concentration. Whether another local nursery is needed or not is currently unclear - opinion is divided. What is certain however is that opinion is in unanimous approval that the current doctors surgery is being in internally refurbished and repurposed, rather than being knocked down and being replaced by yet more flats - as is happening to the former Belvedere Police Station, diagonally opposite. 

I know that a fair number of Radio Amateurs and other radio enthusiasts regularly read the Maggot Sandwich; however not all of them are members of the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) like myself, and thus it is entirely possible that some hams may not be aware that moves are afoot to take the 2 Metre VHF amateur radio band away from Radio Amateurs. A proposal by France to make the Aeronautical Mobile Service the primary users of the 144-146 MHz (2 Metre VHF) band and demote the Amateur Radio Service to secondary users - effectively removing them from the band. The report says that this is “part of a broader consideration of the spectrum allocated to that service.” The 2M band is not, after all, one of the little-used microwave bands, it is a legally protected main amateur radio band. Not only that, for Europeans 144 – 146 MHz is their entire 2M VHF band. What was really weird about all this is why this is a French proposal and not a European-wide proposal. Apparently this is a move by the French company Thales Group to grab these frequencies for some kind of aeronautical communication system they are proposing. A campaign to prevent the loss of this primary amateur communications band - much used by RAYNET, the disaster and emergency communications service during hurricanes, floods and other disasters, when mobile phones, land lines and other forms of communication are unavailable. 2M VHF gets through when conventional communications cannot. There is now a petition which concerned individuals can sign, which states:- "The 2 Meter Amateur Radio Band (144-146MHz) is under Threat due to a proposal from France during the World Radio Conference 2019 meeting that the 2 Meter band should be allocated as a Aeronautical Band. We, the Radio Amateurs find this totally unacceptable that a harmonised worldwide primary user band for Radio Amateurs is being proposed to be used as an Aeronautical Band as it is meant to be a 'protected' band for Radio Amateurs. We want the CEPT to reconsider the proposal from France. Amateur Radio is still a strong and ongoing hobby for 100 years and we must preserve and protect our hobby". Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) RSGB President Dave Wilson, wrote to Ofcom strongly expressing the RSGB’s concerns about the proposed WRC-23 aeronautical Agenda Item that includes 144-146 MHz - the protected 2M ham band. The President’s letter started by stating that the RSGB “shares the concerns of the global amateur community and views the French proposal as lacking a proper understanding of the implications of sharing an aeronautical application with weak-signal terrestrial and space communications services”. It continued by saying that “from our perspective, and in the view of the wider global amateur community, we do not foresee any realistic feasibility of a sharing scenario which does not seriously degrade or impede amateur usage of the spectrum, given the extent and complexity of current amateur services’ primary usage”. The letter stated that there seems no justification for including this band in the proposed study, and that the RSGB is not convinced that there are “any innovative sharing methods” which would not inevitably constrain both incumbent and new services. The letter went on to say that “inclusion of this spectrum in the study is likely to involve regulators in a lot of extra work, when the outcome can be sensibly predicted at this stage”. On top of this, there are millions of Radio Amateurs world wide who own 2M VHF equipment, who would lose the utility of it should the band be re-allocated to other uses. It has also effectively stopped amateurs from buying 2M equipment for the foreseeable future, hurting specialised radio retailers such as Martin Lynch and Sons, Nevada and Waters and Stanton. You can sign a Change.org petition to try and save the band for radio amateurs by clicking here. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

One of the disadvantages of the Maggot Sandwich only publishing once per week is that I can often miss out on any "scoop" stories. This has most definitely been the case in this edition. A story broke late on Monday night, and was to my knowledge first covered by Darryl Chamberlain of the excellent 853 Blog, which primarily covers Lewisham, Woolwich and Charlton. As regular readers will be aware, I do not cover issues relating to party politics, and endeavour to remain neutral in my reporting. I do cover issues that relate to local concerns, irrespective of the elected representative who it involves. It came as quite a shock to me that local MP Teresa Pearce has announced that she is not going to stand for re-selection as an MP at the next general election. I know that many local residents - whatever their political affiliation - think very highly of Teresa, as indeed do I. She is that rarest of things - an honest, straightforward and very hard working MP. I have to say that I do not live in her constituency (I live about 300 metres outside of it), but she has always been very helpful and friendly. She will continue as the MP for Erith and Thamesmead until the next general election, which could be as late as 2022, but in the current terrible state of parliament, and the disarray of both main parties, it could be somewhat sooner. One has to also remember that the electoral boundaries are going to be changed at some point in the future, which will effectively do away with her constituency. On top of this, she has been an MP for nine years thus far, and effectively been "on call" 24/7 for all of that time. On top of this I understand that Teresa has a couple of members of her family with serious, long term health problems. I feel that she deserves a rest. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

I was recently contacted by a reader who had attended the recent record breaking charity auction of the guitar collection of David Gilmour of Pink Floyd. Following his auction visit, the reader wrote to me regarding the Vox Guitar Organ that I wrote about at the time. I was able to provide him some information that I had covered on the Blog in the past. The brains behind many of the JMI / Vox musical instruments and amplifiers was a chap called Dick Denney (photo above - click for a larger view). The man who many regard as the UK’s most important guitar amplifier designer was actually deaf in one ear, but Dick Denney’s perforated eardrum may have been the making of him. As a result of his affliction, he was exempted from military service during World War Two and seconded to the Vickers munitions factory in Crayford – something that would permanently alter the trajectory of his life. During the pre-war years, Dick had become infatuated with both jazz music and radio electronics. Early experiments resulted in the inevitable destruction of the family radio, but Dick’s skills improved and his wages from the factory enabled him to buy components. His work at Vickers also meant that Dick was freed from an unwanted apprenticeship in his father’s barber shop, and perhaps most importantly of all, it introduced him to a man named Tom Jennings. During the war, amateur radio activity was prohibited so, as a guitarist, Dick turned his electronic skills to amplifier building. His goal was to develop an amplifier that was loud, but also small and light – and he had ample opportunity to test them out. Munitions factories were understandably a choice target for the Luftwaffe’s bombing attacks, and a as a result, the staff at Vickers in Crayford spent extended periods sheltering during air raids. Entertainment was in short supply down in the shelters, and so to keep up morale, Dick, Tom Jennings and a few other members of the workforce would put on musical performances – these performances with Jennings gave Dick a chance to test and refine his amplifier designs. Jennings was clearly impressed with what Dick had produced, and being of an entrepreneurial mind, discussed a joint venture with Denny where they would produce amplifiers for organs and accordions together. However, nothing ever came of the plan, and after the end of the war, the pair went their separate ways and lost contact. Dick was born in Erith, and, at an early age, became interested in the guitar and amateur radio, whose novelty attracted thousands of hobbyists in the 1930s and to this day. He was soon a leading exponent of the Hawaiian guitar, and his radio skills enabled him to listen to American shortwave radio broadcasts, which inspired his creation of instruments and amplifying equipment. His fragile health excluded him from wartime armed forces; instead, he worked at Vickers' munitions factory, in Crayford, where he first met the accordion-playing Jennings, who shared his interest in musical innovation. After the war, Dick ran a radio and sound equipment shop in Belvedere. By 1951 Jennings was running the fairly successful Jennings Organ Company, but it soon become apparent that diversification was necessary to grow the business. He also owned a music shop and would notice growing interest in guitars during the early rock ’n’ roll years. Since there were very few guitar amplifiers available in the UK, and becoming an importer for American Gibson and Fender amps was not viable due to import restrictions in austerity post war Britain, Jennings tried to adapt one of his organ amplifiers for guitar. It proved unsuccessful, and the project was shelved. Meanwhile Dick Denney had set up in business as an electronics and radio repairer, while moonlighting as a busy dance band guitarist. However, in 1952 he suffered a collapsed lung and was forced to take time off to recuperate. His idea grew from a portable amplifier-speaker unit he developed, while convalescing from  respiratory illness in 1952, for use with his Hawaiian guitar. In 1955, Dick demonstrated his system - not the first to be made in this country, but certainly the most effective - to the owner of a Dartford music shop, Tom Jennings, who proposed a joint manufacturing venture. So began Jennings Musical Industries, and their trademark, Vox, was applied to all Dick's JMI work. Indeed, the early 1960s rise of British guitar groups caused an explosion of interest that left JMI struggling to keep up with demand. Dick produced three more original designs - a 100-watt amplifier, three times the power of any previous equipment; a guitar-organ, allowing the guitarist to produce his own accompaniment; and a wireless microphone system, the forerunner of those used in today's stage musicals. This was on top of his work on his most famous creation, the Vox AC30 amplifier - the sound of the "British Invasion". Jennings sold JMI in 1968, by which time a franchise agreement had been struck with an American manufacturer for use of the Vox name. Dick left the company in 1967 to pursue a career as an independent consultant and designer, which he maintained until his death. He went on to become an instrument technician for The Beatles and local band The Rolling Stones; in an interview some years ago, Denny's grand daughter recalled that:- "He toured the world demonstrating Vox equipment’, sometimes on American TV. He also set up equipment for The Beatles and The Rolling Stones at important shows. Apparently, Dick was fond of The Beatles and enjoyed banter with John Lennon who called him ‘nanny goat’ because of his beard”. Fans once mistook him for a Beatle and tore some of his clothes. They clearly did not notice the cosy cardigan Dick habitually wore, or his trad-jazz goatee. He also came to The Beatles’ rescue at a Scarborough gig when some amplifiers on trolley stands started trundling down the sloping stage towards them. Thereafter, they were fitted with braking casters. Although he never became rich, Dick felt content that he had made a living being paid for what was essentially his hobby. He combined a working knowledge of electronics with a musician’s sensibility and great ears to achieve the sounds he liked using the technology and components of the time. That countless guitarists have appreciated Dick’s amplifiers is testament to his skill and judgment. Dick died a few months after his 80th birthday on the 6th of June 2001, leaving a son, five daughters and the most wonderful sonic legacy.

There is to be a public meeting / consultation on Thursday 18th July commencing 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Christchurch Primary School on the redevelopment of the Hainault, Lesney Park Road, Erith. The Infant Welfare and Maternity Home was opened in 1920 by the Erith Urban District Council in a large Victorian house named 'Hainault', bought for the purpose as a cost of £1800. The Home had six beds, three of which were in the maternity ward. There was also an infant welfare centre, and antenatal, dental and school clinics were held there.  The coach house and stables were converted into an operating theatre.  The staff consisted of two midwives, a ward maid, a cook and a caretaker. The Maternity Home remained open during WW2, although it was in a danger zone.  A temporary clinic was added in 1943.  In 1944 a flying bomb exploded nearby and caused considerable damage, but the only injury was to a baby in its cot. In 1945 the building was extended and the bed number increased to 22. In 1948 the Home joined the NHS under the administration of the Woolwich Group Hospital Management Committee.  It was renamed the Hainault Maternity Hospital. In 1956 the bed numbers were increased to 24. In 1965 a delivery unit was added, which provided two first-stage rooms and a bathroom, WC and sterilising room. The Home closed in 1974 with 21 beds, a victim of the new NHS policy of placing maternity units in general hospitals. From 2009 until 2014 the Hainault became Hainault Hostel, a long-stay hostel with 12 beds for people with learning difficulties run by the MCCH Society Ltd. After 2014 it was closed, and is now being readied for demolition.

Now for the weekly safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association; firstly the report from Barnehurst ward:- "A great week on the Ward this week with absolutely no crimes of note to report. There were a couple of criminal damages and thefts from Motor vehicle but all these were domestic related with the suspect being known to the victim. Officers continue to patrol the ward and several stop and searches have been conducted in the fight against drugs. Officers also assisted housing officers in the prevention of breach of peace while an empty premises was boarded up at Hampton House. Other good news for Barnehurst residents is that the local police team is now at full strength with the arrival of PC Smith. The next community contact session is to be held at Barnehurst Golf Course on Thursday July 18th at 11am". Belvedere ward:- "There was a recent garage burglary in Mossdown Close. The team viewed CCTV of this incident which showed a white transit van travelling to and from the area on three occasions. Along with a great deal of sentimental items, an orange and black KTM motorcycle was taken from the garage which has then been seen on numerous occasions being driven throughout the north of the borough. The investigation continues – we would ask that anyone that may be able to offer information as to the whereabouts of the vehicle, please contact the team. There was also a garage burglary in Monarch Road from which an orange quad bike was stolen. This was the only item taken from the garage, which had its padlock cut to gain entry. Again, if anyone has any information in relation to this, please contact the team. During patrols of Ruskin Road on Monday night (8th July) we had reason to speak to three males at the location, each of which were searched for drugs. Cannabis was found and a Community Resolution (a warning) was issued to one of the males. We have been continuing our Street a Week initiative recently with visits to Shortlands Close and Hattersfield Close". Bexleyheath ward:- "There have been no reports of burglaries or attempted burglaries on the ward. One report of Theft of motor vehicle at the Civic car park that was reported on the Tuesday 09/07/2019. Also there has been three reports of theft from motor vehicles: Saturday 06/07/2019 - Long Lane Bexleyheath number plates stolen from vehicle; Wednesday 03/07/2019 – Bexleyheath Marriott Hotel – Catalytic converter stolen from vehicle stolen at about 1250hrs; Wednesday 03/07/2019 – Sainsbury's Car Park Broadway Bexleyheath – number plate and catalytic converter stolen from vehicle. A purse was reported stolen on Friday 05/07/2019 between 1300hrs-1415hrs. Purse was taken from victims handbag in the M and S store Bexleyheath. Also on the Saturday 06/07/2019 between 1245hrs and 1315hrs – Victim was pick pocketed along the Broadway and mobile phone was stolen. 13 youths have been stopped and searched around the ward and two have been dealt with for possession of cannabis. The team regularly conduct patrols along drug hot spot areas and ASB areas on the ward and conduct regular stops and searches where necessary". Crayford ward:- "No burglaries to report. The biggest crime generator on the ward this week has been motor vehicle crime with 5 theft from motor vehicle and 2 theft of motor vehicle. Theft from motor vehicle at Hall Place on Wednesday 3rd July; Theft from motor vehicle in Perry Street on Saturday 6th July; Theft of motor vehicle from Crayford Way on Saturday 6th July; A catalytic convertor was taken from a vehicle overnight of Friday 5th July in Tanners Close; A vehicle was stolen from Tower retail park on Sunday 7th July; Theft from motor vehicle on 8th July outside Bookers Cash and Carry in Thames Road. And finally a theft from motor vehicle on Wednesday 10th July at Hall Place, Bourne Road. Officers continue to patrol drug hot spot areas carrying out stop and searches, recently completing several positive searches. One of these after a foot chase in Marden Crescent. The same officers have also recovered two stolen mopeds over the last week. Crayford officers also assisted housing officers in preventing a breach of the peace while evicting a squatter before boarding premises".

Erith ward:- "Police seized a vehicle for being driven with no insurance, residents complained about the noise it was making and the poor manner of driving so we took action. We attended a Recruitment day in Erith town centre on Wednesday hopefully there will be more of these (See image above) Dates for your Dairies: Erith community fun day St Fidelis Road Saturday 20th July 11am/3pm. CCS Costa Coffee Erith Wednesday 17th 4pm". Northumberland Heath ward - no report received this week. Slade Green and Northend ward:- "This week is a good news weekly update as there are no significant crimes to report on our ward. On Monday 08/07/2019 PCSO Mark and PCSO Adam from Erith SNT attended Erith Sports Centre, where Peareswood School and the other schools in the Woodland Academy held a “Race for Life” event in aid of Cancer UK. All year groups from years 3 to 6 from all 3 schools did one and a half laps (600m) of the track and everyone should be commended for their efforts on the day. On Tuesday 09/07/2019 PCSO Mark attended St Pauls school to speak with years 5 and 6 about behaviour in and out of school. From September the school will have regular visits from Mark to carry on engagement with the pupils (this is already happening at Peareswood School). After attending the school, Mark then attended the “Welcome Café” at St Augustines Church for tea and cake with local residents, Vicar Jim Bennett and church staff. The café is open to all from 11am until 2pm every Tuesday with lunch served from 1230. On Wednesday 10/07/2019 Mark was asked by PCSO Lorraine from Northumberland Heath SNT to join her at Jacqueline's Gems nursery in Stelling Road on Northumberland Heath ward to have a chat with all the pre school children about our role in the community. A great time was had by all with the children posing for pictures wearing our hats and pretending to use our radios. Proactive patrols are regularly taking place across the ward with PC's Mark and James regularly seen out and about on their pushbikes. We are aware of several cars that are driving in an anti social manner in recent weeks with “drifting” and wheel spins reported across our ward and Erith Town Centre. 3 vehicles are being investigated with one already seized by Erith SNT. If you do see anything relating to this or any other local issue, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Our next CCS is on Saturday 20/07/2019 from 1000 hours in Forest Road café". Thamesmead East ward:- "Burglary - Sydney Road Saturday 6/7/19 between 10am – 10:30pm Victim reported unknown suspect/s have forced entry to bedroom door, no damage seen. A tidy search with draws being disturbed and items taken from within. Vehicle crime - Lensbury Way Wednesday 3/7/19 Victim tried to unlocked van and noticed the lock had been tampered with. Victim was unable to unlock the vehicle with the key. On Sunday 7/7/19 suspect stated the vehicle would not drive over 15mph. A mechanic informed the victim suspect/s have cut 3 inches of a sensor lead from underneath the vehicle. Sydney Road Thursday 4/7/19 between 3:30 – 10:30am 5/7/19 Victim reported unknown suspect/s have approached the vehicle and removed the catalytic convertor without permission or knowledge. Lensbury Way Saturday 6/7/19 between 9am – 5pm 7/7/19 Victim left vehicle locked in a parking bay. The vehicle was not drivable as needed a new engine. When victim returned to vehicle at 5pm on Sunday 7/7/19 at 5pm it was no longer parked at the location. No evidence of broken glass and victim is still in possession of the keys. A neighbour told the victim that they had seen a low loader truck near the vehicle but the time is unknown. However the neighbour did not see any suspect/s and did not see the vehicle being placed on the truck. Southmere Drive Saturday 6/7/19 between 6pm – 11am 7/7/19 Victims vehicle windscreen has been smashed by suspect/s unknown, unsure at present if anything removed. Kale Road Sunday 7/7/19 between midnight – 4am Monday morning Victim reports vehicle's exhaust and Catalytic Converter had been cut out from underneath car. Leatherbottle Green Sunday 7/7/19 between 10:30pm – 5:37am Sunday Victim's vehicle broken into. Ipad in Gucci case and loose change taken by suspect/s unknown. Yarnton Way Sunday 7/7/19 between 7pm – 8:35 Monday victim reported vehicle broken into Satnav and loose change removed by suspect/s unknown. Hinksey Path Monday 8/7/19 between 8pm – 5am Tuesday 9/7/19 victim reports front passenger side window smashed, seems suspect/s have leant inside vehicle. Tavy Bridge Wednesday 10/7/19 between 4pm - 8:30am 11/7/19 Victim reported that unknown suspect/s have gained entry to vehicle and stolen property from within, no signs of forced entry. Vehicle was parked in the resident's car park that has a security gate. Victim is concerned as suspect/s now have a fob for the gate. Good News: A Street A Week was held in Sydney Road and we were happy to see several residents come along. Any issues were discussed and some residents were interested in our Weekly Crime Update. If you are interested please email the team and ask to be added to our list". West Heath ward:- "One theft from motor vehicle in Pembury Road. The victim discovered his car ransacked on Tuesday July 2nd. This is the second incident of this nature in Pembury Road over the last week. PCSO Reid held at street briefing last Saturday in Pembury Road and spoke to a number of residents regarding their concerns. A moped was stolen from Bedonwell Road on Sunday July 7th between 06.30 – 07.30. The vehicle was later found near Streamway but had sustained damage. On Monday July 8th a vehicle was stolen from an address in Glenview. The suspect made off with the vehicle having taken it for a test drive. The vehicle was later found in Ramsden Road Erith. It is not known at this stage if the vehicle was damaged when found. A blue Yamaha bike was stolen from the driveway of a property in Lansdowne Avenue on Tuesday July 9th between 00.30 – 0035am. The vehicle had a disc lock on it and it is not known how the lock was cut off. Several males were seen on the victim's driveway at the time of the incident. The team, along with our colleagues from Crook log, arrested a Male last Thursday in Darenth Road for possession with intent to supply Class A drugs and for being in possession of a machete".

The end video this week comes from American firearms historian Ian McCollum, who examines the rather chequered history of a Maxim machine gun that was manufactured in Hiram Maxim's factory in Fraser Road Erith, and was then sold to the Russians, only for it to be captured by the Germans during the First World War, and subsequently modified for their own use. Leave a comment below, or alternatively you can Email me with comments to hugh.neal@gmail.com. 

The camper van.

The photo above shows the marine dredger vessel the Sand Fulmar as it travelled up river past Erith, with a load of dredged seabed sand, as it was heading towards the Angerstein Wharf facility in Charlton. Angerstein Wharf is an industrial area and location of a marine construction aggregate and an associated cement facility and freight station in the Port of London, operated by the Cemex company, located on the South bank of the River Thames. The dredged sand is used in the construction industry. Erith gets a lot of passing shipping traffic, and occasionally you will see ship enthusiasts on Erith pier with their cameras and binoculars, especially when a ship of particular interest is scheduled to pass by. If you are interested in learning more about what ships are travelling up or down river, you can visit The Port of London Authority ship movement website here.

Last week the Metropolitan Police announced that they had identified and removed a debit card skimming machine from a cash machine (more properly known as an Automated Teller Machine, or ATM) in Bexley village. Where one has been found, it is highly likely that others will follow. So what exactly is a card skimming machine, and what does it do? A type of fraud which occurs when an ATM is compromised by a skimming device, a card reader which can be disguised to look like a part of the machine. The card reader saves the users' card number and pin code, which is then replicated into a counterfeit copy for theft. ATM skimming is like identity theft for debit cards: Thieves use hidden electronics to steal the personal information stored on your card and record your PIN number to withdraw cash or they illegally copy your account details from the chip or magnetic strip on your credit or debit card when you use an ATM. The fraudster then uses your details to create a fake or ‘cloned’ card to withdraw money from any ATM. The fraud requires two pieces of information, and they have to be gathered separately.  Firstly the scammer needs the card ID details, which used to be stored on the cards magnetic strip, but nowadays in most countries (including the UK) are more commonly stored on the card's embedded chip. A card reader placed over the ATM's real card slot. When you slide your card into the ATM, you are unwittingly sliding it through the counterfeit reader, which scans and stores all the information on the chip. However, to gain full access to your bank account on an ATM, the thieves still need your PIN number. That is where cameras come in - hidden on or near the ATM, tiny spy cameras are positioned to get a clear view of the keypad and record all the ATM's PIN action. The Police advise that users always pay attention to objects mounted on the ATM or located close by. A pinhole or off-colour piece of plastic could give away the camera's hiding place. Some ATM skimming schemes employ fake keypads in lieu of cameras to capture PIN numbers. Just like the card skimmers fit over the ATM's true card slot, skimming keypads are designed to mimic the keypad's design and fit over it like a glove. Be warned.

Bexley Council recently sold off the small green space / park in West Street Erith to a developer. Compared with some of the other open spaces sold off by the council, the West Street site did not raise a lot of objections, I presume as the main users of the small park are street drinkers and people engaging in anti social behaviour. On Monday, some technicians were seen in the park, along with a couple of vans and some towed equipment. At the time of writing the vans and the towed equipment is still on the site. They were carrying out a geological survey of the park, presumably prior to a developer submitting plans to redevelop the site. If you have any detailed information regarding this, please let me know. 

Thank you to the readers who answered my request last week for information about the mysterious old camper van that had been parked outside of the front entrance of Erith Hospital for a number of weeks. I had four people respond with valuable information, and one source, who wishes to remain anonymous was able to supply me with some very detailed and helpful information, which they sent me in a series of Emails on Monday morning. They wrote:- "You'll be happy to know this person has gone. Unfortunately he left behind his human waste. It seems he was just living there, it has been reported to police several times, the council also got told, as did DVLA more than once, it was without tax, MOT and insurance. I believe he was just using it as a base, as they had another van (never there during the day) that would park up and he would sleep in the RV at night. So, mystery solved. In total I believe he lived there for 6 weeks. He has been known to live in a car park in Thamesmead for up to 9 months! I first reported the vehicle to police when I did a search on the internet and found out the RV was without Tax and MOT, the same with his other white van, I reported both to DVLA and nothing much was done, so I called the police, when I did I was told he was the same with other locations, he moves place to place and it seems he only moves when people or himself can't stand the smell! He lets his waste pile up under the RV, it's extremely obvious what it is. The police told me it's known and is uninsured. 2 weeks then passed and still nothing had been done apart from a letter being sent to the home address the RV was associated with, asking for him to tax and MOT the vehicle. Other neighbours complained to all the same places too. My final call was last week, back to the council and they put me through to environmental health, they couldn't do anything. Yesterday while the sun was shining, my son who is 11 was out playing on his bike, he came in and said to my husband "there's a really bad smell coming from that RV, what is it?" Confused, husband went and looked and said it had completely over spilled. I got worried knowing that it's outside a hospital, a doctors surgery as well as the primary school down the road, everyone is at a risk, I was going to call and demand something happen to it today, but I woke up this morning and it made our Monday morning SO HAPPY, seeing he had finally left! Hopefully he won't return. Especially as we now know what we will be in for. When I left home this morning, a road cleaner happened to be driving down, I got so excited, I asked he use his machine to go over that corner where all his "left overs" are, he said he will do his best!" Great news, and thanks to the anonymous reader who also provided the covertly taken photo above of the camper van preparing to leave late on Sunday evening. I know some readers think that somehow I know everything that is going on in the local area, but this could not be further from the truth; I rely on information from readers. Any information on newsworthy issues will always be credited to those who supply it, unless you would rather be anonymous, as the camper van source above has chosen to do. You can contact me in complete confidence by Emailing me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

For many years the former Belvoir Tavern next to Belvedere Station - which was once known as "Belvedere's fighting pub" has lain empty and unused. Efforts to convert it into an African restaurant and night club were thwarted after the place lost its licence in 2010 after a series of pitched battles between rival drugs gangs from Peckham and Deptford which took place both inside the restaurant and in the street outside; on a number of occasions over a hundred people were involved. Shortly after the loss of licence, there was a mysterious fire which destroyed the upper floor of the building; indeed for many months the building was open to the elements, as the roof had been almost completely destroyed. Eventually the insurance paid up, and a new roof was installed and the building repaired. As far as I am aware it has been used as a residential dwelling since, and the bar area has been boarded up and unused. Now the building is due to be demolished after it has been acquired by Christ Chapel Ministries - a church which has been based in Charlton. The church plan to build a two-storey building with two hundred seats on the ground floor, along with a mother and baby room, and one hundred seats on the first floor with associated offices. Five car parking spaces, one disabled parking bay, and five cycle parking spaces are also set to be provided. Whilst it will be good to get the site put to some use after being mostly unused for the best part of a decade, I am aware that some locals have concerns over noise and parking congestion once the new building is open to users. I also wonder how the new Church building will fit in with Bexley council's long term plans for Lower Belvedere, and their desire to have a brand new town centre adjacent to the railway. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

A message from The Exchange, the not for profit group who are restoring the old Carnegie Library in Walnut Tree Road, Erith:- "To celebrate The Old Library’s 113th year we are hosting an anniversary weekend on 6th-7th April! There will be a whole host of activities including a party, embroidery and textiles master classes and tile-making. To celebrate The Old Library’s 113th year we are hosting an anniversary weekend on 6th-7th April! Entertainment will include music from eight-man brass band Don’t Problem". For further information on this, and other events taking place in the former library, please click here.

You may recall that last week in the section of the Blog update dedicated to the Neighbourhood Watch reports I mentioned that one particular observation by a Neighbourhood Watch member who saw some suspicious activity in the Erith Pier Gardens / Wharfside Close whilst he was approaching his parked car. I am now able to expand and explain what the person saw. The individual, who chooses to remain anonymous, wrote to me with the following account:- "A rather peculiar event occurred near Erith Pier Tuesday night I thought your audience would be interested to read. As I approached Morrison's car park I spotted a man in a high-vis jacket apparently setting fire to documents and other paraphernalia just off Wharfside close. This went on for quite some time as he gathered more materials from the back of his old vehicle, walking casually back and forth. I became particularly alarmed when he pulled what appeared to be a Jerry can at which point I thought it best to call the fire brigade just in case it escalated to something more serious. I'm unsure of what he was trying to achieve, or why he would do it in such a high trafficked area - nothing particularly jumped out at me for a justification. I have to say this is one of the more unusual events I've experienced in north-Erith. I have attached a video still I took, hopefully they can frame the scene for you". Thanks to the anonymous contributor; the event was certainly concerning, and it makes one wonder about the mental state of the person setting the fire only a few metres away from residential housing.

Now for the weekly local safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly from Barnehurst ward:- "Good news, no burglaries to report on Barnehurst Ward. There have been two theft of motor vehicles. The first one occurred on Thursday 21/03/2019 between the hours of 07.00pm and 09.00pm in Hurstwood Avenue however Police spotted this bike being wheeled out of a property in Belvedere and subsequently seized the vehicle to return to its original owner. On Saturday 23/03/2019 in Pennine Way a white Ford Transit registration number YR57 JZM was stolen. Also reported was a theft from motor vehicle in Midfield Avenue on Monday 18/03/2019 which occurred overnight. Tools and a bunch of keys were taken from the vehicle. On Thursday 4th April 2019 at 4.00pm in Barnehurst Golf Club we will be holding a community contact session. We are keen for residents to come along to hear about what we do day to day on the ward and would like to encourage residents to join our ward panel meetings. The team will be happy to explain what this meeting entails should anyone be interested". Belvedere ward:- "On Thursday 21/03/2019 the team discovered a house had been broken into on Getrude Road. The rear door glass had been smashed and entry gained. An untidy search had taken place with drawers pulled out. The occupants were on holiday at the time. We have had reports from B and Q and ASDA about a group of youths causing a nuisance inside and in the car park of both stores. It seems like the youths are one and the same judging by CCTV images. We have managed to catch up with five of the youths. They were searched as it was suggested that one of them may be carrying a weapon. No weapons were found. The others are still being a nuisance. We are trying to time our patrols to catch these annoyances. If anyone has issues in either store please either contact the security teams in each or call Police on 101. A motorbike was stolen from an address in Caldy road on Monday 25/03/2019. The motorbike was found the following day by Erith SNT in Church Manorway and reunited with its owner. Our next Community Contact Session will be on Wednesday 10/04/2019 at 13:00 inside Starbucks, Clydesdale Way". Bexleyheath ward:- "We have had one residential burglaries on the Ward this week, in Leysdown Avenue, Bexleyheath, where tools were stolen from a shed at the bottom of the garden. the suspects were disturbed and dropped the tools nearby as they ran off. Please see the link below regarding keeping sheds or garages secure. https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/non-residential-burglary/secure-shed-garage/ . We had a vehicle stolen in Heathfield Road, where a staff member took a vehicle without company permission. The driver was arrested for drink driving, no insurance and taking a vehicle without permission. We had a theft from Motor vehicle in Long Lane, where number plates were stolen from the rear of the vehicle. Some good news, a vehicle was reported stolen from outside an address in Belvedere Road the owner then contacted police stating they had found the vehicle parked in a street nearby, they had forget where they had parked the vehicle. There was a GBH in Christie Close, where male had a single stab wound to his leg, no suspects have been identified for this as yet. A young man was dealt with for possession offensive weapon, where he was arrested after a fight, the male was seen to be swinging a belt during the fight. The Premier Inn and cinema car parks continue to be an issue with youths causing damage and smoking cannabis, the team take a robust approach in the area and this week there has been at least (10) ten stop and searches for cannabis and article to cause criminal damage. Smart Water - the team has been in Wenvoe Road offering residents Smart Water property marking kits, this area recently suffered from a spate of shed burglaries. Two males have been arrested in connection with these burglaries". Crayford ward:- "This seems to have been a week for criminal damage to motor vehicles for which there seems to be no obvious reason. On Tuesday 19th March between 07.35 and 17.30 the window of a vehicle was smashed whilst parked in Old Road close to St Josephs primary school. On Thursday 20th march between 18.50 and 19.10 all the windows of a vehicle were smashed whilst parked in Bexley Lane. On Saturday 23rd March between 11.00-14.30 a vehicle had “bulls eye” damage to the windscreen whilst parked in the underground car park at Town Hall Square. The front off-side window was smashed and the driver's door forced open on a silver Ford Puma whilst parked at Woodfall Drive. On Tuesday 26th March at approx. 20.00 masked Males were seen trying to gain access to a black BMW X5 whilst it was parked at Alcock Crescent, they were disturbed so their intention is not known. Front and rear number plates were stolen from a Fiat Jet whilst parked at Church Hill between 15.00 on 22nd March and 13.00 on Sunday 24th March. A catalytic converter was stolen from a Honda whilst parked outside Miller and Carter at Bourne Road during the daytime of 25th March. A white Seat Leon with the number plate KR68HKJ was stolen between 18.00 on Thursday 21st March and 10.00 on Friday 22nd March whilst parked in Burgate Close, the vehicle was believed to be locked and secure. Between 18.00 on Monday 18th March and 07.00 on Tuesday 19th March a large quantity of building materials were stolen from 94 London Road. An attempted burglary occurred at Lea Vale, date unclear, the owner had difficulty opening and locking the front door and believed it had been tampered with. It is believed that entry was made to a flat at Keats House in Bexley Lane through an open window, nothing stolen or disturbed on 19th March. We will be at the Age Concern meeting at Crayford Library on Friday 5th April between 11.30-12.30 giving some crime prevention advice".

Erith ward:- "Good news - A Stolen motorbike recovered from Erith industrial estate (image above) and owner has been informed. Our next Community Contact Session is Friday 29th March, 2pm at Costa coffee Erith. Around the Sandcliff Road area we have had 2 burglaries and one attempted, all where from gaining access from rear alley way through the garden in to the house – you can make your house a lot more secure by having a motion light solid back fences or even cctv, you do not have to spend a load of money, have a walk around your garden and try to spot any weak points. We are always happy to come around to anyone's house and offer security advice, just contact via email - erith.snt@met.police.uk" Northumberland Heath ward:- "Good news this week no burglaries have been reported to us. One report of criminal damage to a motor vehicle in Mill Road at 2am on the morning of Sunday March 24th. The vehicle was driving in Mill Road when the car was approached by a group of males, believed to be drunk. One of the males kicked the wing mirror and a bottle was thrown at the vehicle causing damage to the windscreen. The team assisted with immigration and environmental officers with a warrant at Darent Industrial Estate this week. Arrests were made for immigration offences. A metal structure has been fixed to a wall in Northumberland Heath Recreation Ground. This specific area has been a hotspot for drug and ASB crime for years and its hoped the structure will help in deterring large groups from using this area as meeting place. This is just one tool which may help deter this issue as we have already had CCTV in the area and increased patrols and stop and search here".  Slade Green and Northend ward:- "One crime of note in the last week was in Canterbury House, Boundary Street. The whole estate is pretty much empty as re-development starts very soon but over the weekend suspects gained entry to Canterbury House and took old piping and wiring from 60 of the 70 flats inside. We are working closely with Orbit Housing to try and identify anyone involved and to prevent the other blocks from being targeted before the building work commences. 3 positive stop and searches in the last week resulting in drugs being confiscated plus 2 Community resolutions issued and 1 is due back for interview soon. A knife was found close to the garages at the back of Alexandra Road and handed to one of our officers by a resident. There is no indication that this was used in any crime but it is now safely locked away. PCSO Mark assisted PCSO Adam from Erith SNT in recovering a stolen motorbike found in bushes on the Thames pathway at the rear of Tesco.Com in Erith. The bike has been taken to be forensicated (I guess this must be Police speak, as I have never heard of the word until now) before being reunited with its owner. PC James and PCSO Mark have given a personal safety talk at Inspire Community Trust in Whitehall Lane which is a day care centre for people with disabilities. 20 or so attendees enjoyed the talk and were given some tips on how to keep their belongings safe as well as themselves. If you would like a copy of the Little Book of Big Scams which has advice on all these matters, please let us know. PC James arrested a male in Frobisher Road on Weds evening who was in possession of a large quantity of drugs. He was later charged with possession with intent to supply (PWITS). Our next Community Contact Session is on Saturday April 6th from 9.30 in the café in Forest Road". Thamesmead East ward:- "Good News - The male who was awaiting sentencing for criminal Damage and Public order offence last week has been given a Community Order for 12 months- unpaid work for 80 hours, to pay the total of £300 costs to Crime Prevention Service and £85 to Victim Services. No Burglaries this week. Crimes This Week - Theft of Motor Vehicle: Mangold Way Wednesday 20/3/19 between 5pm and 9am Victim stated the vehicle was stolen and she no longer has the keys no further information; Criminal Damage to Motor Vehicle: Southmere Drive. Tuesday 19/3/19 between 10pm - 6:45pm Wednesday 20/3/19 victim believes someone has deflated car tyre; Criminal Damage to Motor Vehicle: Seacourt Road Saturday 23/3/19 between 3pm – 1pm Sunday 24/3/19 scratches surrounding the entirety of victims car causing significant damage to the paintwork; Arson to Motor Vehicle: Mangold Way Saturday 23/3/19 between 5pm – 1am Sunday 24/3/19 Victim informed by the fire brigade that vehicle was set alight deliberately by suspect/s unknown; Theft from Motor Vehicle: Lensbury Way Tuesday 26/3/19 between 11:30am – 2:35 pm. Suspect/s have cut part of the exhaust system from vehicle victims Catalytic Converter removed".  West Heath ward:- "We are very pleased to say we have had no reported burglaries and only one theft of a hand power tool from a van in First Avenue overnight Monday 25th to Tuesday 26th March between 8pm and 11am. If you would like a copy of our DIY Home Security Survey please email us on westheath.SNT@met.police.uk or call on 020 8721 2885. Further crime prevention advice is available on https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention. We held a street briefing in Heath Avenue at the junction with Marley Avenue where the issues raised were drug dealing from vehicles late at night, off road bikes in West Heath Recreation Ground during school holidays and the large volume of learner drivers in the area".

The end video this week features a family who have recently moved into one of the large houses on the new Erith Quarry housing estate. Please feel free to leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Wharfside Close.

One of the unique selling points of Erith that seems to get overlooked by many people is its rich maritime heritage - after all, it is the only place in the whole of the London Borough of Bexley which has public access to the River Thames. The Riverside Gardens and the Pier are lovely places to spend time on a nice day, and it is a pity that more local people are not aware of these assets. What is also remarkable - to me at least - is that there are some very attractive houses and apartments located right on the river front. One would have expected that these properties would attract a premium price, but this is actually not the case at all. A four bedroomed, terraced town house in Wharfside Close, right on the river walk sold in May 2018 for £214,500, and a two bedroomed apartment sold in April 2018 for £125,000 - astonishingly reasonable, when one considers that a similar house or apartment with decent river views in somewhere like Deptford or Woolwich would sell for around ten times as much, and in somewhere really upmarket like Putney, the sky would be the limit. The Wharfside Close properties are large and modern, they have off street parking and there is even a dedicated children's play park area. The views out over the River Thames and Erith Pier are stunning, and you have Morrison's supermarket next door. I find it strange that the properties do not command a higher price. Wharfside Close is no more than five minutes walk from Erith Station, two minutes from the Riverside Shopping Centre and the bus terminus, and less than ten minutes by car to the M25 and A2. I feel that at some point soon, the market for these places is going to take off, probably once the Crossrail / Elizabeth Line finally opens. More on this story later - who says I don't plan these things?

I have an apology to make to a reader; earlier in the week someone Emailed me with an enquiry about the historical gardening practices of local residents - specifically referring to the preference for certain plants. I read the Email with great interest, and intended to reply to it. Unfortunately I accidentally deleted the Email before I replied to it, for which I heartily apologise. Please could the sender resend the Email to me, and I will get back to you accordingly? In my defence I can say that I get between 90 and 120 non - Spam Emails every day, and in an attempt to keep control of my inbox, there have been recent occasions when I have been a little over - enthusiastic in hitting the "delete" button. Please get back to me. 

In a disturbing recent development, there is evidence that the notorious "Croydon Cat Killer" has been operating in Erith. Claire Tack of Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association announced on Tuesday that:- "On 12th September a dead cat was found mutilated in the Brook Street area. A vet confirmed that the cat had been attacked by someone using a knife or scalpel". The so called "Croydon Cat Killer" is a real mystery; the first reports of an individual apparently killing and then mutilating domestic pet cats dates back to October 2015 when animal welfare group South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (SNARL) reported incidents of cat mutilation to the police and RSPCA. In November 2015 the Metropolitan Police began to investigate the mutilations, under the name 'Operation Takahe' and led by Detective Sergeant Andy Collin. In January 2016 it was reported that 30,000 local people signed a petition requesting the police conduct DNA testing of the corpses. By February 2016, the deaths of 10 cats (four in Croydon and one each in Streatham, Mitcham Common, Sutton, Charlton, Peckham and Finchley) had been linked by an examining vet who wished to remain anonymous. However, the police at this time stated that the number of cases was in single digits. In February 2016 it was reported that police had yet to find any evidence that the animals were deliberately killed by a human. At this time an investigating vet stated that he found raw chicken in the stomachs of several killed cats and suggested the animals had probably been lured by the killer with the offer of meat. In March 2016, Detective Sergeant Collin said that the perpetrator might be only mutilating the corpses after the animals had already died and might only face charges relating to public order or theft. He noted that of the six cases being investigated, five of the cats had not been claimed which would make it difficult to bring charges of theft or criminal damage. As of March 2016, no human DNA had been recovered. In April 2016 it was reported that the RSPCA believed that the deaths were due to blunt trauma, “likely consistent with being hit by a moving vehicle”. SNARL claimed that the animals were killed deliberately, perhaps by being thrown against a wall. By April 2016, SNARL had recorded 50 attacks across Crystal Palace, Mitcham, Streatham, Peckham, Charlton, Richmond, Orpington, and Farnborough in South London, Finchley, Tottenham and Archway in North London, Stepney in the east, and Guildford in Surrey. SNARL reported that other animals including foxes and rabbits have been attacked in the same way. In June 2016, SNARL speculated that there had been 100 kills following a decapitated cat being found in Morden. At this time police stated that they had spent 1,020 hours on the inquiry since December 2015. By July 2016, the media and SNARL had begun referring to the attacker as the "M25 Cat Killer" after new reports, including a cat killed in Whyteleafe, Surrey, suggested the killer was operating around the M25 motorway. After reports of animal deaths in Maidstone, Sevenoaks and seven other locations, SNARL adopted the terms "M25 Animal Killer" and "UK Cat Killer". In September 2017, ArroGen Veterinary Forensics began re-examining some animals to help police and RSPCA to bring prosecutions. In October 2017 it was reported that the killer was suspected of mutilating over 370 animals. Detective Sergeant Collin stated that it was possible there were copycats. In December 2017, police linked five cat deaths around Northampton from August to November that year to the same killer, but later police stated the Northampton deaths were not being linked to the others though a 31-year-old man had been arrested. It was reported in August 2018 that, three years after the first report of the "Croydon Cat Killer", no evidence relating to an individual who may be committing the alleged crimes had been found. There was no evidence found of clothing, human DNA or a murder weapon and no CCTV footage has been recovered. The mystery continues, and it is worrying that whatever is behind the animal deaths and mutilations, it has now happened on our own doorstep.

Following on from the article last week on the unparalleled level of traffic congestion that is occurring in Northumberland Heath, due to Tesco lorries parking in the road in order to unload stock for the Tesco Express mini supermarket located on the corner of Bexley Road and Northumberland Park, right in the centre of Northumberland Heath, I have had a considerable amount of correspondence from readers on the issue, which seems to be a concern for many local people. As some readers may know, fellow local Blogger and campaigner Malcolm Knight of the excellent "Bexley is Bonkers" and I keep in a pretty regular correspondence, as some of our stories are of mutual interest. Malcolm highlighted that he had in fact raised the issue of Tesco induced traffic congestion way back in an (edited for brevity) Blog entry he wrote on the 25th May 2012. Malcolm wrote (reproduced with permission):- "The next subject for discussion was Tesco’s plan to open an ‘Express’ in the premises formerly occupied by the family owned electrical retailer Wellingtons. Wellingtons has not succumbed to the corporate might of Comet and the like, but has moved next door to a modern store more suited to their requirements. Tesco seems to be on a mission to take over the borough. Two large stores (planned or open) and five Express stores come to mind immediately. The protesters and their placards stood no serious chance of stopping Tesco in their tracks. The existing store permission would allow a shop to open there tomorrow. However Tesco wants to install a cash machine (ATM), change the shop front a bit, put up a Tesco sign and install air conditioning units and compressors all of which do require permission. It was said there are already six ATMs in the small shopping centre and they attract groups who loiter with ill-intent and outside a store selling cheap alcohol it was a “dangerous” situation. Councillors Bishop and Waters were concerned about the traffic congestion that delivery vehicles would cause and anyone who knows the area will be very aware that things are pretty bad already. The shops do not have rear service areas but Planning Department chief, Susan Clark, had to remind the Committee that there was absolutely nothing that could legally be done to prevent Tesco using any delivery vehicle they might choose. For the record, Tesco has said they don’t plan to use anything bigger than ten metres long. If I lived close to the proposed store I would be more concerned about the noise from the compressors and air-con units. They would be only about four metres from the nearest dwelling, that was the official estimate, the protesters sitting near me said it was closer. It was alleged that the compressors at the Welling store are noisier than the permission allows but councillor Val Clark said this wasn’t true. Tesco might consider sending her some Club card Reward Points for her consistent loyalty. The protesters filed out at 21:45 with shouts of “whitewash” the relevance of which I failed to comprehend. Whilst I can see that Tesco will add little or nothing to the wellbeing of Northumberland Heath and will make the frequently appalling road congestion even worse, the Planning Committee could not reasonably stop it. If local feeling is strong enough residents can always boycott Tesco. It’s not as though the Express prices are competitive. A rip-off from my limited experience". Certainly a prescient prediction from Malcolm. All his concerns about the Tesco Express in Northumberland Heath have now come to pass. With the forthcoming opening of phase one of the Erith Quarry development - which has an entrance / exit located in Carlton Road, the increase in local population that will shortly take place in such close proximity to Northumberland Heath will only exacerbate the congestion problem. I have it on excellent authority that in Northumberland Heath:- "Loading and unloading is permitted on single and double yellow lines for a maximum of 40 minutes if loading is observed. You must not cause an obstruction and ensure that there is no loading ban. A loading ban is indicated by single or double stripes on the kerb (see the graphic above), a double stripe means no loading ever, a single stripe means only loading / unloading at certain times. I have been hoping that Bexley would change the parking to one stripe and restrict the times that Tesco can gridlock the Heath, but there was no appetite for it from council. Instead what they wanted to do is put a loading bay in. That could be done by buying a stretch of the pavement nearest the shops which belongs to the shop owners and then there would be an inlet for the lorries to park up. However I believe that an agreement to sell could not be obtained from the Wellington family who own both their own shop and the Tescos next door". What do you think? Leave a comment below, or Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

As predicted, the opening of the African restaurant / bar in the newly refurbished White Hart building in Erith High Street has been delayed; the restaurant / bar was due to open today - the 16th September, but as the licencing committee of Sevenoaks Council (who handle the workload formerly processed by Bexley Council) are not meeting to discuss the application until the 19th September, a delay in opening was inevitable. On top of this, I understand that a number of objections to the current licence application have been submitted by local people. The operators of the restaurant / bar want to serve alcohol from 10am until 4.30am the following morning, and not shut the place until 5am. I am pretty certain that this is merely a "fishing trip" and that the don't really expect this to be granted, but we will have to wait and see what the planning team say. I am positive that the local objections to such excessive opening hours will be fully taken into account. More on this story soon. 

It is a long established fact that digital news platforms have a hard time monetising their content; a good example of this is the Sun newspaper website; for several years it was locked behind a paywall that very few readers actually paid for. In the end the website was made free, and instead relied in online advertisements to pay for it. Smaller local papers have an even harder time of it, as attracting wealthy advertisers can be a real challenge. An example of this is the News Shopper website - a news site that recently boasted of record - breaking viewing figures. The latest industry figures from the Audit Bureau of Circulations covering the first six months of 2018. The ABC statistics show www.newsshopper.co.uk had an average of 40,592 daily unique browsers, up by a creditable 12 per cent on the same period last year. The problem the News Shopper website has, like so many other news based sites is that the number of user hits on embedded advertisements is falling off a cliff. The number of website hits compared with the number of clicks on adverts no longer correlate in the way that they used to. The reasons for this are relatively straightforward. Most modern web browsers have a degree of pop - up - blocking and advert filtering built into them. Google's excellent Chrome web browser (which I wrote about at some length last week) has a full ad blocker built in as standard in the latest version. The News Shopper is notorious for having very intrusive adverts, including ones that automatically play audio and video content - which can startle a viewer when they are not expecting sound or video to spontaneously display. In addition to this, the large amount of bandwidth these intrusive adverts take up can cause even the fastest computer to have problems - causing the displayed web page to "jump around" and not load other content as fast as the user would wish. News based websites are suffering as now many viewers use either stand alone ad blockers, or the ad blocking functionality built into many modern web browsers to stop what users see as irritating and intrusive advertising content. The web content providers and the web browser developers are in a virtual arms race to see who can get one over on the other. At present the ad blockers are in the ascendant - to the extent that the News Shopper website now displays a pop - up banner at the bottom of every page on their website asking users to switch off ad blocking, which you can see in the screen capture above - click for a larger image. The trouble is, the News Shopper really only have themselves to blame by making the adverts on their website so numerous, annoying and intrusive. What do you think? Leave a comment below, or alternatively Email me at hugh.neal@gmail.com.

Thamesmead Police have issued an appeal to the public to identify the woman in the photograph above. She is wanted in connection with a number of offences, not least that of endangering the life of a child whilst illegally driving a quad bike through a pedestrian walkway in Southmere Park, Thamesmead. If you can identify the woman in the photo, please either contact CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or give the information via http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org. Alternatively privately Email me with the information,  and I will pass it on to the relevant Police contact for you. If you wish, you can remain completely anonymous. The important thing is to identify the criminal in the photo above, and get her off the streets before the child or an innocent bystander is injured or worse.

Now for the weekly safety and security updates from Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association. Firstly from Barnehurst Ward:- "Good news again for Barnehurst as we did not have many crimes. The Barnehurst Officers visited Woodside School for the new term. There have been issues with individuals parking their vehicles on the yellow lines outside the school, on Colyers Lane. This is causing a lot of traffic, so can any parents who pick up their children from Woodside School please bear this in mind. Please join us for our community contact day on Tuesday 18th September at 11am at Barnehurst Golf Course. We will discuss any ward issues that you have and we will also provide residents with crime prevention advice". No report from Belvedere ward this week, so we move swiftly on to Bexleyheath ward:- "We have had a report of a burglary that had happened on the Friday 07/08/2018 along Long Lane Erith. Entry was gained via the rear and jewellery was taken. Also, on Monday 10/09/2018 along Pinnacle Hill Bexleyheath. Suspects had entered victims rear garden and had stolen items. Over the weekend a van was broken into along Grove Road Bexleyheath. Suspect had tried to steal parcels out the van. On Saturday 08/09/2018 – There was report of an interference with motor vehicle along Sterling Road Bexleyheath. Sunday 09/08/2018 – There was also another interference with motor vehicle along Bowness Road Bexleyheath. Between Friday 07/09/2018 & Sunday 09/09/2018 – there was a report of a theft from motor vehicle along Grove Road Bexleyheath. Between Monday 10/09/2018 and Tuesday 11/09/2018 – Along Silverdale Road, a vehicle's window was removed and the ignition barrel damaged. On Saturday 08/09/2018 there was a theft/snatch reported along Market Place Bexleyheath. On Monday 10/09/2018 there was a theft from person reported in Primark Bexleyheath. Phone and cards taken from victim. The team are targeting patrols around Martens Grove and Grove Road especially around the garages to reduce any further reports of anti-social behaviour. Over the last weekend the team had taken part in the Food & Music Event that was on the Broadway, the team had also marked peoples push bikes using Bike Register. We will be holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 19th September between 10.30am and 11.30am at the Central Library, Bexleyheath. Please come along and have a chat with us if you wish. If you do wish to pass on information to Police then please contact Crime stoppers on 0800 555111. Please do not hesitate to contact us via Twitter, Facebook, email and the ward phone. If you are after crime prevention advice, please look at the Met Police website which has lots of information that you may find useful. Remember in an emergency please dial 999 and 101 for non-urgent reporting". Crayford ward:- "Between Monday 20th August and Wednesday 5th September, criminal damage was caused in the grounds of Mayplace Primary School. Four benches were destroyed and the parts moved to create a new seating area. There was evidence of drug usage as well as graffiti. On Thursday 6th September at 7.33 a quad bike was stolen from a driveway in Halcot Avenue. It had an immobiliser fitted and would have been lifted to remove. Between 09.00 on Monday 3rd September and 14.00 on Wednesday 5th September a window was broken in a disused building at Farm Buildings in Maiden Lane. Overnight on Friday 31st August an unknown person threw bricks and alcohol bottles at a Black BMW parked in Whitehill Road causing damage to windows and body panels. Between Friday 20th July and Wednesday 8th August there was an attempted burglary at Whitehill Road. Whilst the owners were away on holiday someone attempted to gain entry, although the UVPC frame was dented and lock damaged, the suspects were unsuccessful. Between 14.00 on Thursday 30th August and 15.00 on Friday 31st August number plates were stolen from a black Seat parked in Valley Road. On Saturday 8th September a resident left their mobile phones and cash card on top of their vehicle in Station Road. Realising that they had done so they stopped to discover them gone. They called the phones to find they were switched off and on checking their location they were in different places not associated to the resident. On Wednesday 5th September between 11.00 -11.10 a theft not classified was recorded. The victim had accidentally left their laptop, a Panasonic Toughbook, on the roof of their vehicle, realising when it slid across the roof and in to the kerb and saw a vehicle behind stop to pick it up. The rightful owner pulled over but the person drove off with it. On Sunday 9th September, an arson of motor vehicle was reported in Bascombe Grove. The silver Ford KA had extensive damage to the interior and engine area, it was confirmed that an accelerant had been used. There is local CCTV of this incident. Between Friday 7th September and Sunday 9th September a resident reported three separate incidents, a lock was glued, a door was broken and eggs were broken all over a silver Ford Focus. On Sunday 9th September at 23.34 there was an interference of motor vehicle reported. A white Honda motorcycle was parked outside an address in Ridge Way, 2 Males were seen tampering with it, they fled when confronted and it was found that the steering column and disc lock had been damaged. On Sunday 9th September a resident reported that their two vehicles had been damaged. The Audi A3 that had been parked in Iron Mill Lane had the windscreen cracked and windscreen wiper snapped off. The Seat Leon that was parked in Rectory Close close to Iron Mill Lane had a deep scratch along the nearside. Our officers gave out three tickets for using a mobile phone whilst driving. We have been out and about on our open spaces in response to calls about youths using and selling drugs".

Erith ward:- "A weapon sweep carried out around the West Street area 3 knives were found in a bush and taken to Bexleyheath police station (photo above). Crimes of note from this week - Theft from Motor Vehicle 05/08/2018 Parkspring Court, Erith High Street - unknown suspect gained access to victims vehicle which was parked in underground open car park; Theft of cycle 05/09/2018 Pier Road - suspect seen on CCTV stealing two bicycles from bike rack at location; Theft of cycle 04/09/2018 Domino's Pizza Bexley Road - male has left his bike locked in a bike rack and when he has returned a short while later the chain was cut and the bike was gone; Theft from Motor Vehicle 06/09/2018 Riverdale Road - suspect taking the vehicle registration plates; Making off 08/09/2018 Wm Morrison Supermarkets Plc, James Watt Way; Burglary Residential 07/09/2018 Wharf House, West Street - stolen VIW1's bicycle from the fourth floor of the communal hallway; Theft from Motor Vehicle 10/09/2018 Queen Street - smashing the vehicle window and taking property". Northumberland Heath ward:- "This week we have continued with our work tackling all forms of anti-social behaviour. Over the summer we had several report of nuisance behaviour from a group of young teenage boys and we were able to identify all the individuals involved by viewing CCTV and by talking to the boys on the street whilst on patrol. Two of the boys involved have already received parental letters in regards to this informing their parents of the type of behaviour being reported to police. We referred one of the boys to our ASB panel, chaired by the Bexley Community Safety team at Bexley Council. This week we were able to agree on conditions on an acceptable behaviour contract (ABC) and hope this will both deter and prevent the boy from being in situations where he will be involved in any further ASB. Another boy in the group, already on an ABC, has been reported to the Bexley Community Safety team and more formal intervention is due to follow. We have continued our work on tackling ASB from a group of older teenagers. We have had several reports of noise nuisance in and around Walsingham Walk recently. We conducted plain clothes patrols here throughout the week and identified a group who were congregating here. Details were taken, words of advice were delivered and the group moved away to a different area. We will continue to revisit the area if we continue to receive reports of ASB. Last week we searched a 15 year old female and a 17 year old male for cannabis who were found smoking down an alleyway off Frinsted Road. Over the week both individuals have been interviewed at the police station with parents and will be getting referred to our youth offending team (YOTS) who work with children to try and help and deter them from getting involved in crime. Please continue to report all forms of ASB to the team, so we can continue our work on trying to prevent and deter such behaviour. No burglaries reported to us this week.One theft of motor vehicle in Beechfield Road overnight between Sunday September 9th 7pm to Monday September 10th 9am". Slade Green and North End ward:- "Two vehicle crimes were made aware to us last week after we went on rest days. Overnight on Tuesday 04/09 a camper van was stolen from the drive of a house in Northend Road, there is very limited detail on the crime report but no broken glass was found at the scene and the owner still has the keys. Overnight on Weds 05/09 a pushbike was taken from the back of a house in Lincoln Road. The victim did get some pictures of who they believed we responsible but the images we unfortunately not clear enough to make a positive ID. St Pauls Primary School (formerly Slade Green School has been the victim of criminal damage twice over the school holidays. 2 windows were smashed over 2 separate weekends. There is an ongoing investigation to try and ID the suspects involved. This Saturday was meant to be the Slade Green Big Local Community Safety Saturday but sadly the event has been cancelled due to unknown circumstances but we will keep you informed of any future Big Local events. Our next Community Contact Session is on Friday 21st September from 7pm in our SNT base at Pier Road Erith (next to Farm Foods). Please come and say hi if you are nearby". Thamesmead East ward:- "Good news on burglaries - No burglaries. With the evenings starting to get darker earlier, remain vigilant at all times. Motor Vehicle Crimes - On Thursday 6/9/18 at about 3:00pm, a black laptop was stolen from a Virgin media vehicle parked in LIME ROW whilst the engineer was working on the exchange. A vehicle parked outside of JACOB HOUSE, KALE ROAD had the front number plate stolen between the hours of 09:00pm on Tuesday 11/9/18 and 08:00am on Wednesday12/9/18.A van parked on the forecourt of the BP garage HARROW MANOR WAY had the front nearside window smashed and the driver's lunchbox stolen, house and car keys and a pair of sunglasses stolen. Ongoing investigation by the Thamesmead East team following the BP garage incident. Police Surgery - Tuesday 18/09/18 between the hours of 2:00 pm and 3:00pm at THE THAMESMEAD LIBRARY, BAZALGETTE ROAD. An opportunity for members of the community who prefer face-to-face contact, to speak with a Dedicated Ward Officer." West Heath ward:- "It has been a good week this week with a small amount of crimes being reported. On Friday 7th September, a female was arrested on Axminster Crescent following a failure to stop for police in her vehicle. She was found to be in possession of an offensive weapon and an amount of cocaine. Officers continue to reassure residents following a number of Asian gold burglaries on the borough and would like to remind residents to remain vigilant and call police with any information".

The ending video this week is another submission from transport expert Geoff Marshall with further insights as to why the Crossrail / Elizabeth Line has been delayed by at least a year - and possibly quite considerably longer. Do give it a watch.