The Dutch Raid and more!

With the 350th anniversary of the 1667 Dutch Raid on the River Medway being commemorated in June, don’t miss monthly guided walks at Grain Coastal Park (and take a look at some of the damage caused to the village church by raiding Dutch seamen).

In the company of volunteer Michael Dale (a member of the Friends of Grain Coastal Park), pictured above, the walks offer the opportunity to get out and about in the fresh air and to learn more about our local history.

There's lots to explore at Grain Coastal Park - enjoy!

  

The loss of a great local character

Medway Council announced earlier today that Robin Burfoot (Rochester Town Crier) sadly passed away yesterday (22nd March).

Robin was a true gentleman – generously giving so much of his time and energy to helping many community groups and charities locally.

I was privileged to meet him on numerous occasions – both in Rochester (when he was at work entertaining tourists and locals) and when he frequently visited the Hoo Peninsula – particularly Hoo Village Fun Day in 2013 and at annual shows organised by High Halstow & District Gardening Club.

As an organiser of the Hoo Village Fun Day, I think our event would have felt very different without Robin’s input and involvement. He really ‘worked the crowd’ and made sure everyone, young and old, had an enjoyable time, especially during the fun Town Crier competition and Strongman contest.

Like many of those who met Robin over the years, I’ll never forget him or his sense of humour – he was a genuine and much loved local character.

I send my condolences to Robin’s family.

  

Share your local history!

Since starting my monthly local history column in the Village Voices Community Magazine earlier this year, I have been overwhelmed with people contacting me in response to my requests for sharing information about the area and old family photographs. As well as residents from the Hoo Peninsula, I have also been contacted by those who live further afield (but who have a connection to the area).

I will happily feature as many items as I can over the coming months, just keep getting in touch and be sure to include as many details (and photos) as you can when you do, as this helps greatly.

It really is fascinating to learn so much about other people’s family history and discovering even more about our fascinating area (especially when old photographs are supplied).

To get in touch, either use the contact panel (right) or send an email to the Village Voices Community Magazine by clicking here.