Dungeness, Kent, UK

Channel 4

2012-01-18T07:50:00.000-08:00

UK visitors will probably be aware of the channel 4 'Ident' - that is their identity clip - or 'logo' which is shown inbetween prorams. In the past it has traditionally been made up from buildings, structures etc. The new 'ident' - out soon was recently filmed at Dungeness. We were asked not to photograph what they were filming as they wanted to keep it a secret until they finally broadcast it. Look forward to seeing 'us' on the box in the future!

New Visitors

2012-01-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Interesting to note that out of 560 visitors this month so far we have for the first time individuals from Latvia, Poland, Costa Rica, India and the Ukraine taking a look at the site!

The new web site, arriving shortly, should make it easier to 'Contact Us' so look forward to receiving more comments.

Ticking Off

2012-01-18T07:32:00.000-08:00

An overseas 'fan' took me to task over last item 'Lifes a Beach' for being biased and controversial.

I said you should have seen the draft!!

No the point is being controversial stimulates argument and or discussion!

The main point I make is, having been here for past 42 years I don't want the place spoilt or indeed under water - well not during the time I have left on this earth and if shifting a few tons of shingle is the current answer then, subject to a good alternative, it is something we have to put up with.

We had the same works carried out up to 7 years ago and as it is only a five day a week operation it will not affect the majority of those against as they only come down at weekends. Out of the 90 odd shacks here less than half are inhabited full time. The loudest voices seem to come from those who don't live here!

Energies should be directed at getting a long term solution for the protection of Dungeness.

Dungeness needs protecting and preserving. That is why, until a better long term solution is found I am not against the proposed beach movement. Saying I am not against it does not imply I am for it - but if needs must.....!!!!

So I shall remain an independent voice and be controversial.

£1.25 million to spare?

2012-01-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

If you have a spare few million there is a complex of properties that could come your way. Cannot be marketed in traditional way but details can be made available to highly vetted individuals. Most suitable as a second home for MP's with plenty of room for mistresses or indeed as a 'get away from it all' abode for the would be hermit yet within One and 1/2 hours of the Londinium - new HST only 35 minutes from Ashford.
You know how to contact me
Discretion assured

NEW WEBSITE SOON

2012-01-16T13:31:00.000-08:00

This, must say popular, website was offered to the local Residents Association (for free) as it had been muted they wanted to create an 'offical' Dungeness site. I felt that, with the monies available in their 'kitty', great improvents could have been made. However the offer was rejected - well not actually rejected - ignored. So at great expense, to this hard up retired old person, I have commissioned a new site and sod the expense. If the dog has to go hungry so be it. The new 'fresh' site is looking good and should be 'up' in the next week to ten days. Saddened at having to take my life savings to pay for his lavish lifestyle the web designer has inserted a 'Donate' button (for free!!!!) should any reader take pity!

This 'Paypal' link will hopefully serve as an easy method of payment for any purchases of Dungeness memorabilia that may be offered by local artists etc.

RNLI

2012-01-16T13:17:00.000-08:00

Royal National Lifeboat Institution - Dungeness
Rather than type up a precis of the recent, quite heroic, rescue of a distressed sailing vessel by the Dungeness Lifeboat crew, we have reproduced, with the full permission of 'The |Looker', their front page of Issue 35. further coverage is given on the Dungeness Lifeboat Website - see links

Lifes a Beach!!

2012-01-16T13:14:00.000-08:00

Well, to some, the proposed re-instatement of beach movement seems to be the end of civilisation as we know it.

The problem we have at Dungeness is that the area is designated a 'flood area' and needs protection.   We have two nuclear power stations - one closed but still one hundred years of radiation to care for.   It is inconceivable that any government will allow Dungeness to flood. It just will not happen.   There are measures in place - and more afoot - to prevent flooding. One part of the flood protection measures involves the replacing of beach that has been washed around from the West to the East side of the Power Stations.   If successful in their operations EDF (the French owned - we Brits own nothing - power suppliers) will ensure we hermits who reside here will be safe for at least another 150 years.   However there are many who want to prevent the movement of this beach.   There is evidently a petition of over 1500 names supporting the 'let Dungeness sink' brigade.   Over 1500!  There are only 40 families who live here permantly.   The others are outsiders - one assumes the the same tribe that is against development of the airport or a third nuclear power station.   Read 'lovedungeness' website for the full emotional rejection of the beach moving proposals.
Personally I do not know what all the fuss is about. Up to six years ago the transporting, by lorry, of beach and during the winter months was carried out with barely a comment.   Yes they are very large dumper truck lorries but never proved a danger or threat and were only operational during winter months and Monday to Friday - so even the 'weekend shack owners' were never here to witness the goimngs on.

BUT now there is uproar!
The greatest area of concern would seem to be the 'destruction of this area of natural beauty etc etc.   The noise the pollution of lorries trundling around.   The loss of revenue to the hard pressed community by preventing quote tens of thousands of visiting fishermen to the area unquote.   What a load of cods wallop (pun intended).   .

I missed the recent local meeting so spoke directly to both EDF and the Environment Agency for their comments on points I wished to raise.   First I wanted to know what was significantly different to the proposed movement of beach now compared with the past.   NONE!   So what is the problem?   Health and Safety have got involved and the immediate vicinity around the extraction and lorry loading area will be 'fenced off '.   However reading all the local anti press would have one believe the whole area will be sealed off thus depriving the 'tens of thousands' of visiting fishermen their 'right' to come to Dungeness and leave their garbage behind.   As if they help the local economy.   They come, they fish they leave. and lesave rubbish - which has to be picked up, at a cost, by our local beach cleaner commisar.

EDF have stated at none of the meetings they have attended did any of the majority anti brigade make any suggestions as to alternative methods to assist in the flood prevention programme.   If the area were allowed to flood there would be no Dungeness.   So those against the proposals would seem to have a death (by drowning one assumes) wish.

I had thought perhaps dredging and pumping beach ashore from the sea bed off the point might be an option (as it has been along the coast at Sandgate).   EDF states for the relatively small amount of beach required it is too expensive and that movement by lorries and all terrain vehicles is the most cost effective method.

EDF have forwarded the FAQ's regarding the situation and both pages are reproduced in full - hopefully in close proximity to this article.

Bed and Breakfast at Dungeness

2012-01-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

Although there are a couple of B&B's just outside the estate this is the first within the camp gates. I cannot comment on whats on offer or prices but there will shortly be a link under the links page. The link stating the 'placeon the beach' is NOT at Dungeness but a few miles away in Camber. Originally called 'The Place' it was an upmarket eating spot with good accommodation. Under new management. I have no personal knowledge of it now although if standards have been maintained then certainly a good place to stay and eat!

New Years Resolution

2012-01-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

I shall try to keep information more up to date!! Thought I might report on 'What the papers say' if relevant to Dugeness. On that note I will shortly add a link to the website 'lovedungeness.com' which seems to have sprung up to fight the the movement of shingle from one part of the beach to another. This is something that has been carried out in the past with no problem so do not understand the aggro is all about this time around. Anyway the site is always open to comment and I will print them whether or not I agree on them. To be continued................................

2011-09-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

Visitor from Thailand

Had someone called Phillip turn up yesterday - all the way from Thailand.

He was in the UK for a few days and the only place he wanted to return to was Dungeness - having not seen the place since a child some 40 years ago. This is typical of the feeling people have for the area and how they are drawn back. Evidently Phillip returning next year for a longer stay..

2011-09-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

September 19th and a beautiful sunny day

As in the past September does bring good weather not enjoyed by the rest of the country. Although typically windy the air is warm and it is Dungeness at its best. Quiet, now summer holidays have finished, and quite tranquil with the aroma of Ozone flooding through the open patio doors - lovely

2011-09-19T07:29:00.000-07:00

Broadband - still not available!

60 miles from the capital of this little nation and we cannot get a broadband signal - well I can - at .45mbps but I am the last of the line. Others have to rely on mobile phone connections - and they leave something to be desired. Being made aware the local council had funds made available to 'speed up' speeds in rural areas I wrote to our local councillor. Had quite a speedy reply but nothing positive well maybe if you consider tenders have been put out for a provider who can supply 90% of the area with at least 5mbps and the remainder with 2mbps. I suppose an improvement on .45 or nothing at all.
We shall see.

We have been privately canvassed from a company providing satellite cover but at a price. Even Monks on the highest plains in Tibet get better service. I suppose it is our fault for deciding to remain in a third world country!

2011-09-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

Life Boat Memorial

A memorial standard (flag) has been presented to the Dungeness RNLI station this week in memory of the late William (Willie) Richardson who died last November. Willie served with the RNLI for 45 years and the standard is a symbolic reminder of a person whose heart always focused on helping others and saving lives at sea.

For our overseas readers the RNLI is the Royal National Lifeboat Institute which is funded by public donations and having numerous lifeboat stations around the UK coast. Always in need of funds!!!! And on that point a local lady has left a fortune to the National Institute with over £1 million being left to Dungeness. This will fund the purchase of a new lifeboat and launching station within the next couple of years.

2011-09-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

Airport Expansion - to be or Not To Be

Finally the latest public enquiry has ended and whether the go ahead will be given is in the lap of the gods or how large the brown envelopes will be.

It is a great pity those against the expansion moved to the area knowing there was an operational airport in existence. But EU protected slugs aside it is now the dicky bird brigade who do not want the lesser spotted blue tit having to find a new home. We had the same arguments over the proposed wind farm - expecting poor little birds being chopped to pieces in the revolving blades. Its amazing that a little birdie can get out of the way of a motor car travelling at 70 mph yet will commit Hari Kari in the sails of an electricity producing windmill.

Good job these people weren't around when motor cars first came into being!

If an company or individual wants to put £30 million pounds into the local economy then they should be welcomed with open arms. It is not likely any sizable airline will be a success here but at least let them try.. Human beings and their survival must come first.

Oh and that David Wimble - one of the latest elected district councillors, head of the Marsh Community radio station and the editor and co owner of the (much praised by me) 'Looker' magazine (see links) has been massaging facts in support of the airport expansion. David you are not the messiah you are just a naughty naughty boy (apologies to 'Life of Brian'). Stick to facts and the truth - you wont get tripped up then and of course if you tell the truth you don't have to remember what you said!

Off Again

2011-03-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

No not me - broadband - just when I thought everything had been fixed it went off last Friday and came on, albeit stutteringly, half an hour ago. Thanks for various responses to obtianing a better broadband coverage. We are actively seeking funding through local government grants but that seems long winded. We have been advised that the local exchange could be 'upgraded' for £100,000.00 but no-one will confirm what difference this would make. We still have the copper wires with a maximum 6.5 kms suitable to carry a reasonable broadband signal (all of 1/2 meg if we are lucky). BET (broadband enabling technology) could stretch this to 12 kms at a cost of a thousand pounds per line. A far cheaper option if local funding is thinly spread. We shall see.

Broadband - or lack of it

2011-03-21T06:10:00.000-07:00

How we get lost when the technology we have become to rely on isnt there any more.   Broadband went off over 2 months ago and has only just been re-established albeit at a paltry 1/4 meg - well what can one expect we are over 60 miles from the capital of England.
Credit where credit is due though to BT's Open Reach team.   They spent a lot of time on my line even though my service provider is not BT.   Finally they replaced the copper wiring to the largest diameter wire they could find and low and behold 'back on line' - that nice thick copper cable should also act as a good conductor for lightening strikes - can't have everything I suppose.

There are numerous villages and small hamlets throughout the UK that are in excess of 6 kilometres from the local exchange, who also do not benefit from the fibre optics of the 'big boys' and simply cannot get broadband.   Local Parish councils do have funds from central government to assist rural communities in 'speeding up' broadband speeds - but it would be useful to be able to get it in the first place.   We understand there is something called BET - Broadband Enhanced Technology which, whilst costly to an individual is or should be free if there are over 15 subscribers wanting the service.   Anyone know anything more about this?

Anyway spring is here (for today) lots of sunshine, clear blue skies but still only 8 degrees.   Downside of the clear skies is the site of all the vapour trails frome the aircraft taking the lucky ones to sunnier climes in Spain and beyond.

Dungeness 'Talent' - Snoo Wilson

2010-11-28T06:26:00.000-08:00

Snoo Wilson, writer extraordinaire, noted internationally for his plays and script writing (google him for more), lives and creates locally.   He currently has a play running in the old 'Rose Theatre' on the banks of the Thames.  Entitled 'More Light' it is impossible to provide a synopsis but is described as 'a satirical take on the works of Shakespeare'.
My first visit to 'The Rose' or rather what is left of it (built in 1586 and opened in 1587).   Forerunner of the more famous Globe Theatre, also on the banks of the Thames, 'The Rose' does provide an inspirational backdrop to the small and very personal stage - with actors only a few feet in front of the audience.   'More Light'- brilliantly performed by a cast who quite clearly enjoy the flow and rhythm of the 'old way of speaking English' - well worth a visit.
   For more information on 'The Rose' theatre visit www.rosetheatre.org.uk.

Snoo was also the script writer of the recent film, entitled 'Eichmann', filmed in Budapest and Malta in which local girl Tilly O'Neil appeared.

Snow again and Kevin Brown

2010-11-28T05:03:00.000-08:00

For the second year running snow at Dungeness. Definitely must be due to global warming! Picture is of the gathering clouds on the French coast - just 20 miles away

And Kevin Brown? One of the UK's foremost and proficient blues slide guitarists - who just happens to love the desolation, peace, quiet and uniqueness of Dungeness. In between gigs on Friday night and this afternoon in Rye, Kevin came down for a few hours with Mike Prince - a driving force in keeping the blues alive here in the south east.

Paris

2010-11-28T04:42:00.000-08:00

There has always been negative publicity with regards to the suburbs of London being shabby and a disgrace and the first thing travellers (by train particularly) see when they approach the Capital.

Went to Paris by train last Saturday and was taken aback at the degradation one sees on the approach to Guard de Nord - far worse than the approach into south London stations. And the streets - unclean, tons of leaves from the autumn fallout - in summary - made London quite respectable. Nothing to with Dungeness I know - just proving the point I can travel unattended the 20 miles to Ashford International rail station!

Willie Richardson

2010-11-28T04:35:00.000-08:00

As a confirmation of the respect and popularity of William, the church at Lydd was packed - standing room only. RIP

William (Willie) Richardson

2010-11-12T03:00:00.000-08:00

Flags are at half mast following the sad passing of William (Willie) Richardson, after a long term fight with cancer.   Only 64 he was still active in his business and related council matters until last week.   He will be missed by all who knew him.
Born and bred in Dungeness, William not only ran a successful fishing and retail business, he was a local and Kent County councillor but probably best remembered for the sterling work with the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) being attributed with the saving of over 200 lives during his 40 years with the lifeboat service.

It has been a pleasure to know him.   He was always at the end of a telephone if needed and was one of those people who would help anyone out if he could.

There are many tributes in the local newspapers and indeed one on the Lifeboat website - see links for further information on this well liked, well respected family man and ,in the true sense of the word, gentleman.

William's funeral is next Wednesday, 17th November and the family has requested 'no flowers'.   Any donations made will go to the Dungeness (Lifeboat) Crew Fund to purchase a memorial standard in his honour to be located at the Dungeness Lifeboat Station.

The Looker

2010-10-12T12:10:00.000-07:00

No not a sexist female comment but the name of a new local weekly community newspaper for the Romney Marsh.

Now out - the third edition. Full of good local news (which can be viewed on line - http://www.thelooker.co.uk/).
This is a really well produced locally created newspaper that is offered free at numerous retail outlets on the Marsh. However I feel that, as a weekly publication, it could become a strain on the dedicated team who have put it all together. I can forsee this becoming a full time occupation and, once committed, there is no going back. I sincerely hope the magazine continues to be a success and congratulations to the team behind the venture.

World Wide Veiwings

2010-10-05T13:55:00.000-07:00

Over the past two weeks over 650 page views with 412 from UK followed by 57 from the US and surprisingly 28 Brazil, 15 Japan, 14 Germany, 14 Luxembourg, 13 Canada, 13 Spain and 12 from Vietnam. Nothing from the USSR - must have upset them with last comment.

Back At Last

2010-10-05T13:33:00.000-07:00

Back at last - been away for a bit - I did protest my innocence but it didn't wash!

It was saddening to hear that Brenda, a stalwart of the residents committee had passed away suddenly- and belated condolences to all her family. Albert, an active campaigner for a local political party despite being less able bodied than most has sold and moved on to a new locale. It is a sad fact that as one gets older it becomes more difficult to get around and there being no shops to waddle to it does make sense to move to somewhere with more facilities - that said we do have a ninety odd year old lady still here. And this week Eric has finally moved, again to a more practically situated abode. All the best to both. All this movement has seen an unprecedented increase of 'shacks for sale' and prices seem to have stabilised since the last one went at £220,000.00.

The Smokery commented on in a previous blog is near completion - to a very high standard. This would seem to have annoyed some moronic scroat or scroats who, the night before last, decided to deface the front with six foot high yellow paint. I suppose trying not to be outdone by the recently reported theft of the 'Banksie' graffiti from the side of a container**. Another act of mindless vandalism! The yellow paint wasn't from normal spray cans, being too large a spread, so it looks as though the responsible assh...es obtained the commercially available road marking paint to do their deed. Despite ongoing reaction to the building from a few locals it is hard to conceive any were responsible but at same time it is unlikely that the opportunist drunken reveller, if that were they, would just happen to have a large can of spray paint upon their person. So a deliberate act.......................?

PHOTOS HAVE BEEN REMOVED

**(For those overseas visitors to the site who may not know of such things 'Banksie' is a pseudonym for an unknown graffiti artist of some talent. He was reported to have visited Dungeness recently and painted the side of a storage container in his inimitable style. He is highly collectable nowadays and although most of his work appears on public buildings, walls, pavements etc. this latest effort was open to theft. The miscreants simply hacked the side of the container off and carted it away. Odd all these goings on what with all the police activity in the area. Mind you with all the government cuts in police expenditure I suppose the armed patrols will now be weekly and with two on a tandem!

All this on top of a recent attempted theft of a fishing boat propeller by some pikeys (sorry misunderstood, under privileged travelling persons) caught in the act with all the heavy lifting gear needed. Not charged as word has it they were duffed up a little by Batman and Robin, who just happened to be passing.

ON A BRIGHTER NOTE, and widely reported in the press and tv news (television not transvestite) one

Sir Richard Branson got in a pickle when he graced the area with his presence.

  Richard had come to Dungie  to attempt a record breaking mass crossing of the Channel on surf
boards, dragged along by a large sails.   The first day the winds were high and the waves and swell made
it impossible to complete the crossing.     The sad thing is the endeavour was called off because the safety boats couldn't cope with the rough seas.   Richard and son actually travelled 11 miles out into the Channel before turning back - which, as he pointed out, the total time 'sailing' was sufficient to have got him to France.   The following day the weather was too mild with insufficient wind to get the team more than a few hundred yards out.   And what a lovely bloke with it.   His family were there including his wheelchair bound father.   A real pleasure to see him as a decent human being, finding time to talk to locals (including me - 'get out of the b......y way) and not acting in the way we see so many 'celebrities' doing.   Better luck next time - which we understand will be in a few months time.

Looks like tent city but in fact some of the many sails lined up on a becalmed second morning in readiness for the next crossing attempt!

And , not a lot to do with Dungeness but an 'advert' for Ulysses - a motorcycle club for the older generation. Motto - 'Grow old disgracefully'. A worldwide club started in Australia. See the links for their web site. Only mentioned this as, after nearly forty years out of the saddle have manged to get my leg across a 900 Triumph Trophy. Old but in good nick - and the bike.

Out on dvd and currently showing on 'True Movie' channels the film 'Eichmann' Based on the interrogation (from transcripts) of Eichmann following his 'removal' from South America to Israel. Film script by Snoo Wilson, an owner and resident of Dungeness and starring the great German actor Thomas Kretschmann with Franke Potente, Troy Garrity, Stephen Fry and the then 8 year old Tilly from Dungeness!

Tilly also appeared in the 2008 Edinburgh Festival award winning 'Best Short Film' - 'The Other Man' with Anna Maxwell-Martin and Neil Barry. Filmed on 'The Marsh' and beach at Dungie.

Tilly with Anna on the beach

Web Site viewings

2010-03-28T04:30:00.000-07:00

The past calendar month recorded 1073 visits to this site with 85% coming from search engines, 8% direct and the remaining 7% being referrals from other sites. The biggest fans, apart from those in the UK are from the US and Canada. Still have someone in Moscow looking at us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Another award for Dungeness property

2010-03-28T04:22:00.000-07:00

'El Ray', formally just a 'railway carriage shack' has been transformed into an award winning building. The Kent Designs Award follows on from last years award from RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) for properties in the under £1million category.

The interior still contains the original railway carriage but externally things are a lot different. Its rounded curves are clad in vertical panelled wood and viewed from the air it resembles a wine glass. Obviously there has been criticism over its design but then there always are the die hard critics/moaners who do not want change. Dungeness is unique, in part due to the diverse properties that are around. At least these new designs, constructed to current building regulations and with the best possible materials, will be around long after the original ramshackle shacks have fallen down and of course will continue providing Dungeness with its uniqueness.

Degenerating Dungeness Road

2010-03-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Every three years or so we have to shout to get the road repaired. It should be the duty of the trustees of the Estate to ensure the road is maintained in a safe good order. Although a private estate it is open to the public but the local council do not want to know - even though they actively promote the area for tourism.

A suggestion is to start charging for the road's upkeep - AFTER it has been completely renovated - with all house owners contributing, say £20 per year and local businesses, say £150.00. Income, for the trustees, is obtained from film companies and a sum from that should be added to the 'road fund' - together with an equal amount from the local council!

Dungeness Address

2010-03-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

Dungeness is an estate so why do we need Dungeness Road as part of the official address. Surely Dungeness TN29 9ND would suffice. How do we go about having it changed?

Dungeness 'Official Website'

2010-03-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned it? Dungeness residents association are looking into the funding of their own website. I did offer this one (for nothing) but did not even have the courtesy of a response. This site is already number one on Google - a further seventeen hundred hits in last month with 275 viewers to the blog and literally from all over the world - including a further four from Moscow (just thought maybe our power stations are a target)- So why not make this site more up to date by spending a few hundred pounds? What is also worrying is the comment 'looking to ways of funding.....'. There was in excess of £3000.00 in the kitty implying a new site would cost in excess of that? Wonder who wants to create the new site! Perhaps an owner 'who knows about these things'

KEEP DUNGENESS UNIQUE - SAY NO TO A TWEE VILLAGE

2010-03-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

The recent Dungeness Residents Association were vociferous in their condemnation of Shepway Councils latest 'giving in' to outside developers - relating to what was claimed as an historic building - namely 'The Smokery'. Me thinks sour grapes born out of the fact that they were not made aware of the seemingly 'underhand' sale of the local church/buffalo lodge. Which to my mind must be considered a more worthy challenger as an 'historic building'. 'All these bleeding outsiders coming in and buying up properties - it just aint right' Of course the majority of the sour grape brigade are themselves outsiders too!
Had any of the baying residents taken the trouble to visit the property before or even during demolition they would have noted the virtual natural degradation of the wooden structure which was quite clearly not suitable for re-development. The same critics also lamented on the inappropriate new designs being permitted by SDC. Again, had the complainers taken the trouble to look at the plans submitted and other architects drawings it would have shown a very sympathetic replacement set of buildings with the main body of the house very similar to the property it was replacing. This can now clearly be seen as the structure is well on its way to completion. It is also interesting to note one of the objectors is also the owner of a past 'controversial' development known locally as the 'Rubber House'. When proposed there was an outcry 'not in keeping with the area' etc etc. It is also rumoured that the planning officer was moved sideways after agreeing to the rubber skin (a true of Condominium) erection. How true that was I don't know but sad if it were the case. At least someone recognised the importance of keeping Dungeness different.

The whole point about Dungeness is that EVERYTHING IS DIFFERENT and that is in part what makes the area unique. Years ago, when Dungeness was developed as a community we had railway carriages at one end and purpose built bungalows at the other. How greater contrast can you have? It is that contrast that has got to be preserved. Not so long ago there was an SDC planner who wanted all rebuilds/newbuilds to be clad in wood and painted black! My complaints to SDC at the time was that we did not want a twee little village of, in Pete Seegers words 'little boxes all made out of ticky tacky and all look the same'. Someone must have listened as my neighbour was refused planning permission for a shack with shiplap painted black as it was 'not in keeping with the area' I think planners have a lot to answer for but as with most local government officials there is little possibility for sensible discussion. On top of all that the Residents committee have now set up a sub committee to see through a 'village community'. And the electees are all NON permanent residents and, according to the newsletter with two of them being people 'who know about these things' . Frightening - if I knew what it all meant.
Keep Dungeness different - welcome the continuance of diverse structures and do not try and stop evolution.
A backdrop of two nuclear power stations, two lighthouses, a railway station, railway carriages, air raid shelters, purpose build bungalows, watch towers, plastic clad buildings, wooden clad shacks - HOW CAN ANYTHING BE CONSIDERED 'NOT IN KEEPING' OR INDEED ' IN KEEPING' with the area with such a diverse array already here.

Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

2010-03-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

The RH&DR has a new updated site! We haven't because I lack the funds to pay for it all!

Dungeness Web Site

2010-03-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

A recent newsletter from the local Residents Association indicates the proposal of a Dungeness Website and to seek funds to create this new site. What is wrong with this one? I have offered the current site to them but offer ignored!!!!!!!!
The creation of a new site will be quite expensive whereas an updating and freshening up of this one will be just a few hundred pounds.
This is a privately run site paid for out of my own pocket BUT it is still in the top 2 of major search engines, attracts over 1200 hits per month (has been as high as 4000) - and from all over the world. Why create another one??
If anyone out there would like to contribute to this site it can be made to look a little more modern with the addition of a photo gallery etc.

Lydd Airport

2010-03-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

Quite unexpectedly local councillors approved, with a 2 to 1 majority, an expansion of the local airport. Of course the minority who are against any expansion are up in arms threatening public enquiries and delaying any development for at least 2 years. It would seem the councillors, who were not expected to back the proposals, actually listened to their electorate and voted on behalf of the majority of locals who are not against the expansion. Democracy comes to the Romney Marsh! Apart from those who wish to preserve wild life at all costs (it is a great pity they cannot put their energies into preserving the human species) the most opposition seems to come from those who have moved to the area in the not so distant past and fully aware of the existence of an operational airport. They now feel their lives will be blighted by all the noise and pollution! They should have been here in the fifties and sixties when silver City Airline were flying up to 200 flights per day in their dirty loud Bristol Freighters. New proposals will probably see 10 flights per day from a lot quieter cleaner modern jets. (It was interesting to hear on a recent BBC Radio 4 programme that for every ton of cement produced a ton of pollutants are discharged into the atmosphere and that the total out put of pollutants in the production of cement is greater than all that produced by all the aircraft currently flying today. Lets hear it for finding an alternative to cement production! - No it wouldn't work - not glamorous enough is it?

Human beings must come first and if there is an individual or company willing to inject millions of pounds into the local economy they should be welcomed with open arms. If there are concerns with the ecology they should be addressed and resolved but to try to stop a project because a little known slug, protected by the European Union could be endangered is beyond comprehension. Makes one wonder what would have happend during the industrial revolution if there had been protesters of the same ilk as we have today.

Dungeness - World Wide Popularity

2010-02-23T06:33:00.000-08:00

In the first three weeks of February the Dungeness website has had over 1020 visits (with a further 300+ to the blogsite)

930 visitors were from within the UK with 23 from the US, 11 from the Netherlands with France 9, Germany 7, Denmark 6, Australia 5, Spain 4, Canada 3, RUSSIA 3 and others from Malta, India, Austria, Hong Kong, Finland, Ireland, Sweden, Turkey, Israel, Slovakia, Malaysia, Luxembourg.

Not bad for an area of such desolation!

Would love to hear from visitors - either thru the blog or email!

A third power station

2010-02-23T06:19:00.000-08:00

The government decided there would not be a third power station at Dungeness - for no good reason other than the local fauna might be upset - oh and area is likely to be flooded in the not too distant future. Cannot see that being allowed to happen as the two existing stations will have to be adequately protected for a period long after their sell by date.

Fortunately most of the local population in the area are for expansion as it will provide continued jobs and subsequent wealth to the area. Human beings must come first!

It seems odd that the anti airport brigade don't object to the power station expansion! If their belief is damage to the wildlife, ecology etc. then their argument should be applied to both. However it is rumoured there are persons within the anti airport group who have a vested interest in getting a third nuclear power station built - so perhaps that is the main reason for opposing the runway expansion?

It was noted in the local paper last week that a new power station would destroy plant life unique to Dungeness. It should be remembered that before the power station was built in the sixties there was no or very little vegetation. Most of what we have today has benefited from the massive windbreak created by A and B Stations. And most of what we have today is being destroyed by the unchecked growth of brambles.

Security

2010-02-23T05:59:00.000-08:00

Recently there have been thefts and attempted thefts from local fishing boats - including propellers. One assumes for their scrap value.
In general there is not a problem with security on the beach but it has been noticed lately that 'undesirables' dressed in their community service overalls and left unattended (whilst the 'gang master' has tea in the local cafe) ostensibly picking up litter. These convicted persons have been seen to be paying more attention to the properties than to the litter on the ground.

If individuals are given community service as part of a punishment for their undisclosed crime - should they not be better supervised?

In the meantime if any visitor to Dungeness or indeed local sees anything out of the ordinary or suspicious please let the local boys in blue know! Their number is quite easy to remember - 999!

Thanks

2010-02-12T03:35:00.000-08:00

The assistance by Nigel Wheal with new photographs for the site is very much appreciated.

A short bio from Nigel:

Born and raised in Maidstone I have alway had an infinity with the the great outdoors, activities from caving right through to just plain of walking. Gone are the days of me exploring the deep dark caverns that are scattered around the country.

Photography has taken over from the thrill seeking exploits of my youth and I now wander the south of England trying to capture in the viewfinder what we all take for granted.

I spend all my spare time seeking out vantage points with great views, and looking for everyday vistas that can be turned into something special with the right light or something special happening within the scene.

Essex to Sussex, Kent to Cornwall I try to venture to new places all the time.

I have recently set up a new Website to display some of my images as well as starting a new online blog where I can show what I am doing at present. If you see any image on the site that you are interested in, and would like to find out a little more about sizes and framing please feel free to get in touch with me via the Website ,

Nigel Wheal

Dungeness today

2010-02-11T06:16:00.000-08:00

Another power station or an Airport

2010-02-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

Uproar because this weird government have ruled out Dungenss for a further nuclear power station. And the anti airport expansion lobby have been deafening in their silence over the matter. They must be in a dilemma not knowing which to shout about. They produced loads of misinformation to stop the airport expansion and when it looked like a lost cause suddenly found a little slug - designated as of European importance to hang their hat on. Proof if proof were needed that they wanted to stop the expansion at all costs and with nor real reason except that it was in their backyard. Mind you some complainers aren't even local and seem to have other agendas. And now a new power station that would destroy a far greater area of local fauna and insects than the extension to the runway - and not a peep.

There has always been an airport here and exceptionally busy one in the 'fifties' and the first of the power stations were constructed with the airport in mind. Opposition to the runway extension was also based on the close proximity to the power stations - ruled out.

Lets put human beings first. Jobs in the area are desperately needed and no-one should put the livelihood of local community at risk just for the sake of the 'lesser spotted green eyed slug)

2010-02-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Complaints about the state of the road. Getting dangerous. Many large potholes that could easily throw a motorcyclist to his doom. Maybe we have to have a death before work is carried out. The estate are aware of the deterioration and we understand 'things will be done'. In the past the cost of repair of repairs were borne by the gravel extractors, who were blamed for the damage in the first place. They haven't been running for the past two years so now cannot be held responsible. But who should pay? - the residents (probably less than forty reside permanently), the local traders (pub, light house, railway)? - the hundreds of tourists who regularly visit. OR the estate who derive some income from the many film shoots held here? Failing that a toll booth at the entrance gates. It is a private estate after all and 'not dedicated to the public!

Snowy Dungeness...................

2010-01-13T23:42:00.000-08:00

Not a lot to report - except snow again today. Twice in a fortnight and at least half an inch! I can see a national emergency being declared. How will we get to the shops?

Mind you Dungeness does aquire a certain magic - covered in a soft white blanket - and the erie grey power station merging into the lighter grey sky looks like a film set awaiting its cast and crew to bring it to life.

Still snowing so must go and awake the Huskies and get the snow plough warmed up!

Todays scenes:

Help Wanted

2010-01-08T10:28:00.000-08:00

We get many emails through the website requesting assistance in tracing long lost relatives associated with Dungeness and for the most part relate to the turn of the century (20th). The problem is life comes to an end (for most of us at some time) and the numbers of elderly 'local' resident diminishes each year. The eldest resident went to a nursing home many years ago and apart from one elderly lady there is no one else with the history to even pre war days (WW2). So if she doesn't know and younger generations have not inherited the history of past inhabitants then there is a problem in helping enquires. However there may be someone out there who does have some history in their memory banks and therfore a precis of a couple of recent enquires follow:-

A Mr King from Hampshire has enquired about the property 'Retreat', where his grandmother resided, possibly as a tenant, from 1928 to 1932. He is trying to establish the history of the building - who built it/owned it etc. Anyone there who can help?

A second enquiry from Hampshire - looking for anyone with history on Peter (Percy) Steward born in/on Dungeness in 1917 and a property called Seagull Cottage.

2010

2010-01-08T09:53:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all our reader!

Since creating the blogg facility last year have simply not been able to comprehend the method of attaching anything new! But 2010 New Year resolution will be 'to master it!' Cannot even find the spill chiker!

Well all the hype of 'global warming' has been tempered recently with the onset of the first significant snow at Dunge for many years but only a sprinkle - not like the old days. 25 miles away - blizzards but sunshine and beautiful sunrises here.

Just before Christmas we saw the departure of Ken and Sylvia Oiler, ex local councillors and stalwarts of 'keep Dungenss unspoilt' brigade. Members of one of the oldest 'original' Dungeness fishing families they put a great deal of time and effort into ensuring things 'got noticed' here - wish them well in their continued retirement.

Recently a lot of publicity, national newspapers and tv, regarding the sale of a 'shack' with panoramic views of the east wall of the nuclear power station. The agents neglected to inform potential purchasers that this 'unique' little property with magnificant views across the beaches was also bathed in the shadow and radiant glow of the now defunct 'A' Station. Up for around a quater of a million pounds it finally sold to a local family! The chap who complained bitterly that he had been mislead by the agents details and wasted a journey to Dungeness would seem to be a bit of a trouble maker or just dim. Who in the world doesnt know that Dungeness does not have nuclear power stations or indeed travelled down without first checking on the internet??

If you have £1.5 million to spare there is quite a nice place available!! Details upon request (brown envelpoe and £ notes please)

There was a recent, well attended, meeting (makes a change) of the local 'Residents Association' to discuss, with Shepway District Council, the vagaries of planning applications and consent for rebuilding/modernising shacks on the beach. Alas I was not able to attend the meeting and alas no feedback was made available to the rest of the populace who could not attend. Word has it there were the usual gripes from the usual gripers but overall the meeting was, evidently, a success albeit lacking in any firm outcome or positive decisions. The main area of concern seems to be the 'wierd and wonderful' structures now being created and 'definately not in keeping with the area' I think what is ovelooked is that part of Dungeness's uniqueness has always been the variety of buildings/shacks and that they have evolved over the years. Half of the estate started life as railway carriages and the other half small purpose built bungalows, albeit timber framed for the most part. The railway carriages had bits added to them and the reult an assortment of shapes and sizes. The 'Rubber House' was probably the first to break the mould and become something a little out of the ordinary and was accepted. The 'Wine Glass' is slated for being 'not in keeping.' It is different yes but if all were reconstructed as per my neihbours' properety (very well done I might add) in wood shiplap painted white (or black as the last dictat indicated) the estate would end up as a twee little village - which it isn't, wasn't and never should be! Some of the loudest critisisms come from neglected eyesore owners.

Dungeness property sales

2009-12-08T11:57:00.001-08:00

The latest sale seems to be that of the church and one time meeting place of the 'Buffalo's' for a reputed £180,000.00. This ex air raid shelter has served the community for many decades as Church, residents meeting place and 'Buffalo Lodge. It is alleged the building was left to the reisidents and should not have been sold, certainly without it being publically announced that it was for sale.

The new owners of 'Channel View', one of the few remaining properties in need of restoration have submitted plans for its redevelopment so lets hope there are no hold ups there. Usually get a few 'wingers' who complain about everything making objections but over the past couple of years Shepway Council have been a little more understanding uin their agranting planning permission for various designs in the 'new' properties.

There was a time when the then narrow minded planners insisted in new developments being clad in timber and painted balck. This would have lead dungeness becoming a twee little village of sameness instead of the uniqueness for which it is known.

First attempt at a blog...........

2009-11-26T02:34:00.000-08:00

First attempt at a blog to augment Dungeness web site (dungeness.org.uk). As the first posting I wanted to reproduce a 'newsletter' dated June 1999, which as then secretary to Dungeness Residents Association, I sent out at the time which seemed to ruffle a few feathers. (Unfortunately I have not found a way of importing text from an outside source although have managed photographs). Following the newsletter thre followed a 'coup' and I was ousted from my grand position whilst on holiday. I returned to find I had resigned due to pressure of work! And since then committee has been next to useless with no information being passed to residents. Mind you since 1999 the face of Dungeness has changed - well not so much the 'face' as the incumbents?. As the fisher folk made good they moved out to 'proper' houses and following the interest in the place by the likes of film director Derek Jarmen prices have rocketed form the £750.00 I paid to figures in excess of £200,000.00.

Dungeness sundry........

2009-11-26T01:54:00.000-08:00

9 September 2009

Due to the following Dereck J has and also the interests created over the years by BBC gardening programmes DJ’s garden is very much ‘open to the public’ although as you say it is nice to have boundaries respected (nothing worse than to have a couple, hands clasped around their eyes peering into ones abode – (it has happened to me) to see what creature lurks within. Many people have, in the past, asked why do you live here? And the answer is ‘because I have had the choice!’. Nowadays, with changes in attitude as to what life is really about, the comments are usually to the effect ‘wish we could afford to live here. As you say property values are high – but where else can you buy such desolate solitude (well nearly).

Planners only allow re-development of shacks providing something original remains behind – i.e. railway carriages. Most shacks to the south of the estate still have the carriages hidden within and others quite clearly untouched. You probably saw ‘Channel View’ which has recently been sold and will retain the rather beautifully wood carriage within when re-developed.

As for litter – most left by anglers and visitors but a lot brought in by the westerly winds. We have a warden but it would take ten people full time to keep it under control. The odd crisp packet, that may make a good photograph, may well ‘blow on’ to another location but the broken bottles; tin cans etc are a nuisance. Ideally would like to find out who the culprits are and deliver said junk to their front lawn! For some reason I suspect they would object!!

Webmaster

Dungeness revisited

2009-11-26T01:52:00.000-08:00

29 August 2009 I recently visited Dungeness after a forty year gap. My previous visits in my twenties, had beach fishing as their purpose and were mainly made at night in winter to take advantage of the warm water outlet from the power station. My latest visit on 21 August was to photograph this wonderful place after being prompted to do so by images seen on the web. I enjoyed my day immensely, first picturing the old boats and derelict sheds etc and finished by visiting Prospect Cottage. While taking pictures of Prospect Cottage from the road I was joined by a couple who asked if I thought they could wander around the garden. Having read the signs re: respecting the property boundaries, I replied that I did not think it right to do so. While we were chatting a gentleman came from the cottage (I thought to ask us to move on), and invited us to look around the garden. He was the father of the current owner and was spending a week at the cottage. We were able read John Donne's poetry on the side wall and visit the sculpture garden created by Derek Jarman. I took several pictures here but from ground level in a 2 dimensional image the scrap and driftwood sculptures tend to disappear against the vegetation. Readers should not view this as a general invitation. I am interested in those cottages based on rail carriages and in how old the carriages are and where they came from. I remember them as being old 40 years ago. I shall make more visits to record as many as possible. I did photograph one from the road near the new lighthouse and someone told me that while some of the carriages have broken down or rotted away or been otherwise removed, the exterior shape has been preserved in the existing buildings. Can anyone confirm this? I am surprised at the prices of the property there but not greatly so. I did not expect to find myself (a lover of hill walking and mountain country even at 62), enjoying this flat and at first glance, seemingly barren (and in poor weather very grim), place so much yet Dungeness grew on me and I very quickly changed my thoughts from "why would anyone choose to live here" to "what a wonderful magical place, truly different from anywhere else I've seen". There is something very special about Dungeness. I hope it remains so. On the question of rubbish on the beach. - well I don't live there so maybe I "don't get a vote", but photographically it is all part of the "different beauty" of Dungeness. Strangely, I would have been annoyed to see such as sweet wrappers or crisp packets and drink cans around and I would have removed them from any scene which I was to photograph (and taken them away as is my practice). However, I was careful not to remove or even move "to a better place in my picture" anything of the long dropped and windblown general detritus of the fishing industry. This scene of desolation and rotting dereliction and decline of the fishing industry is a major draw for photographers and sightseers who no doubt contribute to businesses on the beach area. The bare shingle beach, old (and new) cottages, unusual but lovely vegetation, derelict boats, sheds, rails and winch gear and the wildlife reserve all set against the power station is an anachronism but that is the magic of Dungeness. There is much more for me to see and I will return soon and perhaps make regular visits through the 4 seasons. If any reader is interested I have to date just a few pictures in colour and B+W on a photo website called "Perfectly captured" to which I shall add daily over the next few weeks.

The easiest way to see them is to link to my own gallery there: http://www.perfectlycaptured.com/showgallery.php/cat/500/ppuser/228

For my part I shall have to search out a copy of the book, Dungeness remembered.

Finally, may I say what a pleasure it is to enter "railway carriages, Dungeness" into my browser and find such a mine of local information as in this newsletter.

Many thanks. Vic Chapman.

Start saving........

2009-11-26T01:47:00.000-08:00

29 April 2009

Thanks for mail and glad you enjoyed the trip. Good weather does help!

Re 'Garage Cottage' so named as once in the distant past it was a garage.

There is some doubt as to when it reverted to a house but probably mid to late 40's. Someone aged 63 seems to recall seeing it in his childhood yet another a few years older does not recall seeing it and as they say its been a cottage for 'as long as anyone can remember'

Re Derek Jarmans 'Prospect Cottage' its nice to know some visitors to the estate respect boundaries but with regard to Prospect it seems to be expected everyone can walk around it at close quarters and as they please.

There are those interested in gardening and people do like to look at what is growing and then there are the Jarmen followers for whom it is a shine.

On the south side of the building (if you really did not get that close) is embossed a script in 'ye olde English' which does seem to invite close scrutiny. It would please Derek if he knew there was continued interest in the place and I think the 'caretaker' accepts the fact people will come looking around. Most of the properties do not have formal boundaries, as we were/are prevented from erecting fences although most shack owners do own the freehold up to the road.

Latest shack for sale is up at £265k I think and that is in the shadow of the power station so I suppose it will not be long before prices get up to £500k. The last uninhabitable one went for around £150k.

Start saving.

Dear Dungenessites

2009-11-26T01:45:00.000-08:00

28 April 2009

email from Fraser Donachie

Dear Dungenessites,

We have just returned from a long weekend to visit Dungeness and all our expectations were met - we even had fine weather - and we spent two days there just wandering about. My girlfriend grudgingly put up with my need to photograph just about everything - every shack, shed, boat or piece of rusting machinery - not a very original idea (there were many other photographers there on Sunday), but damn good fun.

'Prospect Cottage' is all well and good (we respected the boundary, took a single photograph and didn't 'rubberneck' for long), but is eclipsed by many of the other "buildings" scattered about. I think our favourite is 'Garage Cottage', which doesn't appear to have changed since 1923 (my estimate!) - we are now saving up £450,000 to make an offer - ha ha. I grew up on Hayling Island in the 1970s and Hayling also had, up until c. 1980, many shanty-huts and homes made from railway carriages. etc, so for me Dungeness is stepping back in time and is pure nostalgia - I wonder what John Betjeman would make of it? I know that his friend and artist John Piper admired the place and it obviously still attracts many artists. We were so struck with the place that I have managed to get a copy of 'Dungeness Remembered' by Ken Oiler on order - it hasn't yet arrived, but I'm really looking forward to it. Does anyone know why 'Garage Cottage' is named so?

Thanks and best regards to all who live, work or play in this wonderful corner of Kent.

Fraser & Karen

catching up on Dungeness news

2009-11-26T01:41:00.000-08:00

Still a few Oilers on beach - Ken and wife Sue - he is retired and active in local politics.

Wi Wurri is next door to me - Charlie Carter bought it many years ago (from your family? - he sold to a young couple and they sold to current owner who demolished it and rebuilt it. It was in a sorry state and had to come down. Mine (AT Last') still has the carriage as a dining room but cannot see line of any carriage from outside.

As you have seen from website Dungeness is now a 'preserved' area for many reasons and any shack that has a carriage within has to keep so from Church to Old lighthouse all but two that had rail carriages still do have them.

I remember Mrs Donovan well and it was she who made me aware of two properties for sale in 1970 - and I bought At Last. I remember the dogs and the parrot which had a colourful vocabulary. I was ten or so at time - in fact we came on holiday every September for two weeks (from Ashford) from 1949 to 1956.

Don’t recall start of Great Expectations but the film 'The Dark man' was made here in the late 50's and since then numerous films including a good episode of 'Minder' (good for the photography) and we get pop group videos being made all the time including the latest Will Young thing a couple of months ago.

Property prices here are now extortionate - last being £150,000.00 for Channel View a derelict shack opposite me. My place valued at £250,000.00 so all in all - gone mad!!

More Dungeness nostalgia

2009-11-26T01:37:00.000-08:00

23 January 2009

An email from Mrs A Keys:

I read with interest Mr P. Wood's letter from Thailand. My mother, who is now 96, used to live on the beach at Dungeness, in a railway carriage which my grandfather converted, later building on an extension for a Cafe which my grandmother ran for the fishermen & visitors.

They lived there for some years, the first year, and through the winter with my grandmother cooking in a pit which they dug on the beach as there was no heating in the railway carriage. Their surname was Lusted and there were 4 children, Mabel, Cyril, Thelma and Freda. They went to the local school some way along the beach, which was reached by running along the railway line and "skating" along the shingle on wooden slats which they strapped to their shoes. They kept goats and drew their water from a well.

My uncle Cyril became friends with the lighthouse keeper who taught him Morse Code & apparently he was extremely good at this, even as a small boy. He later became a Chief Petty Officer/Telegraphist in the Royal Navy. My mother has recently written a book, just for the family, about her life, and there is a long chapter about Dungeness with photos of the railway carriage/cafe where they lived.

There is also a photo of the school. Mum still recites the school song, which was written by the Head Mistress, Miss Wilman, and it was called "The School Beautiful". When Mum was 13/14 she became a trainee teacher at the school, but unfortunately, as times were so hard and money so short, she was unable to continue and had to go into service in London.

The surname "Oiler" is one I have heard since my childhood, and especially the name Patchy Oiler. If there is anyone who remembers any of this, I am sure my Mum would love to hear from you. As I said, she is now 96, and although she has bad arthritis, she is very "with it" and articulate. I would be so happy to pass on anything of note to

Mum. She would be so thrilled.

Thank you. Anne Keys

Dungeness Rubbish

2009-11-26T01:34:00.000-08:00

21 January 2009

An email from K. Bates:

Dear Sir or Madam

I have been coming to dungy since I was 8 years old i am now 65 this is where i learn to do sea fishing my wife and i still go to dungy at least 6 times a year if not more we love dungy. We are members of the D.A.A but we appalled at rubbish that is left on the beach by other fishermen and visitors my and i often walk along the beach picking up rubbish unfortunately there is not many bins to put the rubbish in we often end up taking other peoples rubbish back home with us it is not just paper but broken bottles beer cans etc.

Re Rubbish Agree with you but short of closing Dungeness to the public (it is still a private estate) and thus the mindless fishermen (I am quite sure they are in the minority - those that leave rubbish behind) but there is very little that can be done short of filming them leaving rubbish behind, taking their car numbers and from that where they live - and then taking the rubbish and dumping on their front lawn. I'm sure they would complain about that but it will not stop morons in general not taking their rubbish home.

Any sensible suggestions on what can be done would be welcome!

The Jam

2009-11-26T01:24:00.001-08:00

19 January 2009

Can anyone identify this - from 20 years ago:

Hello from Thailand

2009-11-26T01:23:00.000-08:00

18 January 2009

Hello from Thailand,

My question is this.Does anyone know if the oiler family are still living in Dungeness?,because many years ago my father always bought his ragworm bait there before he would go fishing on the beech.The other questions are as follows------

Are there still some converted railway carriages anywhere in Dungy,because we had 2 ,they were called --wy wurry ,and Verderise.They were literally just railway carriages that been converted.,and I believe that many were taken to Dungy shortly after the second war ,may even be the first war ,not sure as living accommadation.Ok,last question,promise.Does anyone remember a Mrs.Donovan,who used to breed Chihuahua dogs,because she was our neighbour,and our carriage was very neat to the Chapel,that used to have a bell on the top.The chapel was just down the road from the Oilers house.I miss it all so much,and I will eventually come back there to live,assuming Ican find suitable accommadation.I am school teacher here in Thailand,but Ireally miss the marsh.I simply love the bleakness,in fact the original David Leans film Great-Expectations opening scene always reminds me of good old Dungy.

ps --I would love to know if anyone has any answers to my questions .

Yours Faithfully,

Mr.P.Wood

Some Dungeness nostalgia

2009-11-26T01:21:00.001-08:00

28 February 2008

Some Dungeness nostalgia from A. Young, Newchurch:

I thought you may be interested in my family's hand in the development of Dungeness beach. My family are from Ashford and have, for generations, been railway workers. As a young boy in the late 50's/early 60's, we would often visit the guards van near the furthest end of carriages where my grand father had placed it. At night, the bell on the large wooden buoy opposite would clang away and during the day, my father would worry about my mother swimming! It was amazing to me to see the lightening storms crossing the channel and to watch the flickering of the gas lamp whilst my parents quietly talked at night. I remember the power station being built, it was like a moonscape before nuclear power! I also remember a huge noise during construction and a large tank falling from the building killing an unlucky construction worker. I now live on the Marsh and visit Dungeness as often as possible. Oh...if only we still had that cottage! What changes would my parents see now, would they believe that film and media folk hold this railwayman's playground in high esteem!

My mother hated it, yet we all enjoyed many happy times there. My father told me that the best fishing was after the war whilst the rolls of barbed wire, which looked fantastic when struck by lightening, were still laying on the beach. Would he have believed that there are, in fact, not more "fish in the sea"! And the weird paint testing stations........what has become of them. Many changes in a relatively short time......but a wonderful piece of living history ......I love the place!

The Smokery’ is dead – long live ‘The Richardsons'

2009-11-26T01:20:00.000-08:00

16 January 2008

December saw the departure of a well known character and equally well known ‘landscape’. I refer to the departure for sunnier climes of Jim Moate and of course ‘The Smokery’. I know it was Jim’s desire to have the Smokery continue in business after he left but not to be – but you never know!!!! Jim had worked hard for many years to provide traditional smoked, local, fish as well as cheeses, garlics etc. He had customers return year after year and had featured in numerous TV, film and magazine articles. I am sure all who knew him will wish him well in his retirement.

Over the past few months we have seen ‘Helevetia’ undergoing a long awaited renovation. We were surprised to see that the old and very neglected building was not flattened but with the roof remaining intact the supporting timbers were carefully replaced and we now await for the final transformation with the addition of the external cladding and new windows. Bad weather of late has unfortunately held up work on this final leg but the end is insight. All this after at least 20 years total neglect. Congratulations to the ‘local’ family who managed to acquire the property and was willing to return it to its former glory.

In contrast to what is considered ‘the norm’ for Dungeness, ‘El Ray‘ is undergoing a complete face lift/rebuild albeit with the original railway carriage forming the centre piece. If you could view this property from the air you would see the outline of the structure resembles that of a wine bottle. A feature close to the owner’s heart – in a professional capacity! Not sure if there is to be a ‘Chateau Dungeness’ but we live in hope. Only one more ‘shack’ left for re-development and full planning permission has been granted for its transition. ‘Channel View’ has a fine example of a turn of the century railway carriage within the structure boasting beautiful craftsman ship in the all wood structure. This should look really amazing when completed. We hope the new owners will permit some interior shots to be published.

Work is progressing on conversion of the various ‘out-buildings’ which were left over from WW2 close to the old lighthouse. These are being transformed into very high spec accommodation for those wishing to visit the area.

Dungeness continue to ‘pop up’ on the T.V. in various guises, from ‘East Enders’, more cops and robbers films and in the not do distant past featured in the short movie ‘The Other Man’, which incidentally won the Edinburgh Film Festival Award for ‘Best Short Film’ – starring the very fine actress Anna Maxwell Martin (BBC’s ‘Bleak House’), repertory actor Neal Barry and six year old local girl Tilly O’Neil who following her debut in film making subsequently ended up on location in Budapest and Malta to appear in the feature film ‘Eichmann’ – to be released this year in the UK..

Also, now in the dim past but still being shown on Sky, two properties were featured in the Channel 4 production of ‘Up Your Street’, (in which two local residents visited (for the first time) each others properties. The programme designed to highlight the difference of interiors and what could be done to each to improve values.

Latest land registry figures show one ‘shack’ selling for £199,000.00 although it is understood another has recently exchanged at £204K. what price peace of mind?

Deep Sea/Wreck Fishing

2009-11-26T01:17:00.001-08:00

18 October 2005

Anyone interested in a day out at sea can contact either numbers 01797 321282 or 01797 363544

Europe has now got us!!!

2009-11-26T01:16:00.000-08:00

13 September 2005

Dungeness has become an SAC!! Designation of Special Areas of Conservation or more fully Special Areas of Conservation (cSAC) under the EC Directive 92/43EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (Usually referred to as the Habitats Directive.

All this became effective from 1st April 2005. This seems appropriate – April Fools Day.

Do we really need all this waste of time and money?

Talk is of all the indigenous plant life that exists here. Do they know what indigenous means? There was, apart from Sea Kale, no plant life here in the late ‘40’s and what growth has taken place has been largely due to the influx of new owners bringing with them there gardens and plants. The nuclear power stations built form the mid sixties formed an effective windbreak which assisted in the growth of plant life.

‘Indigenous’ adj. occurring or living naturally in an area; not introduced; native!

Where do they think the plant life came from in the last 50 to 60 years? It came from families creating there little gardens, bringing soil from Ashford with all the suburban plants. The soil then spread, Dickie birds dropped seed, the wind blew seed but without the soil brought to the barren beach very little plant life would have been given the chance to survive.

Also severe fines are threatened if one dares to remove beach or indeed fill in sunken areas. This is considered spoiling the natural lines of the beach created over millions of years. Not strictly true as some of the erupted areas came about when 2nd world war shelters were blown up and in any event hundreds of thousands of tons of beach are extracted each year and transported to an area beyond the power stations. Does not this constitute damaging the natural evolutionary lines of Dungeness? Or doesn’t that count. In any event we would seem to be keeping over paid bureaucrats in gainful? employment both in the UK and Europe so it can’t be that bad. It would better preserve and serve Dungeness if some of their hard earned money were spent not on pontificating about the area but maintaining and cleaning the area regularly.

And to top it all, locals in this and surrounding areas are having planning permission refused as the are is likely to flood in the next 250 years. If that is so then what are we spending so much money on preserving the wildlife or is it simply to preserve the pay packets of those on the ecological bandwagon?

And whilst on the soap box re buildings and planning permission. If the likelihood of flooding is the only reason for not building then surely the decision to build is down to the owner and his bank balance. It is his money, why cannot he spend it and waste it if in 250 years time it will be washed away? And would it be still standing in 250 years time? Bureaucracy !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Where to Stay!

2009-11-26T01:14:00.000-08:00

The majority of email requests we receive are ‘we want to visit Dungeness, where can we stay?’

Out of the 80 odd abodes here probably a third are holiday homes and a majority of owners do rent their places out on a weekly basis. Having said that they are always booked up well in advance – usually from year to year. Most bookings are for the summer months leaving them, in theory, available for off season. Guide prices – from £150.00 per week.

There are no bed and breakfast establishments on Dungeness itself, however there are two just outside the estate entrance:-

‘Homestead’ – which can offer one large family room please contact Bob direct on +44 (0)1797 321765

‘Pluto’ – named after the second world war Pluto line has a mix of accommodation – Family, Double, Twin and single. Prices around £25.00 per person per night – including traditional breakfast. For details contact Betty Paine on +44 (0)1797 320072.

A shortway down Coast Drive there is ‘Fairwind’, established over 20 years and still with the currnet owner. Contact Tom Gilbert on +44(0)1797321219. Room rates there are from £22.00 per person per night for the doubles and £22.00 per night for singles including of course a full English breakfast.

We hope that will assist the casual visitor and any feedback would be more than welcome.

Canadian enquiry

2009-11-26T01:12:00.000-08:00

27th November 2004

An email from Hank Tweedy of Edmonton, Canada:

I am wondering if anybody knows something or has the possibility to look up some information about a family member of mine.Today, November 27 2004, is the day a ship had a collision 120 years ago of Dungeness.

William George Tweedy was the 2nd engineer on the ship and he drowned that day. I have approached several people with a data base on shipwrecks but no luck.The ship was the "DURANGO" and the collision occurred on November 27,1884 of Dungeness.

If anybody could help me with information about the accident, was it the weather, storm or what happened to the bodies of the people that drowned I would really appreciate it.

Are there perhaps any archives or libraries that hold old newspaper information for the are of Dungeness where I can write to, that would be great too.Thanks all of you who read this and especially those who react to the message, negative or positive it's all okay.

Thanks Hank Tweedy

Can anyone help? If so Hank can be contacted by email at htweedy-at-telusplanet.net [note replace -at- with @]

Australian enquiry

2009-11-26T01:03:00.000-08:00

5th November 2004

An interesting enquiry received from Allan Staines in Australia. Can anyone help?

If anyone is able to find any maps, information etc that they can send - please contact the webmaster.

As mentioned, I am an author preparing a new adventure book.

In it, I have three boys in January 1953, escaping from Dutch/Soviet sympathisers and they steal a 16-18ft inboard sail, clinker hull boat from a beach or creek either before Calais or just past. Could you advise me on the most suitable creek or beach where this could be possible?

Also do you know who could advise on boating in the channel between Calais and Dungeness? or do you know an old seaperson who would have knowledge of french small boats and inboard engines common for the era 1945--1953?

Many thanks

Lydd Airport Action Group (LAAG)

2009-11-25T23:51:00.001-08:00

Following an email from DM of Greatstone:

i am getting very concerned about the impact the proposals for the expansion of Lydd Airport will have on the environment.

and from PF of Greatstone

I am writing to tell you about the Lydd Airport Action Group (LAAG) and to ask for your support.

LAAG represents people who are opposed to the expansion of Lydd Airport.

Plans recently unveiled by the airport's new management, show that they want to expand facilities to cater for 2 million passengers by 2011 and 6 million by 2021, and a formal planning application is expected soon.

LAAG is opposed to any plans that involve the expansion of the runway as this brings large aircraft into the area and creates unacceptably high levels of noise and air pollution, degrading the living conditions of local residents and harming the surrounding, fragile, nationally and internationally important ecological habitats of Romney Marsh.

We would ask the help of the Dungeness website Club by:

a) asking your vistors to visit our website at www.lyddairportaction.co.uk and registering their support using our online form, and/or

b) including a paragraph on your website about LAAG, together with a link to our site, and/or

c) mentioning LAAG in your publications eg leaflets, newsletters etc.

and/or

d) displaying posters

I do hope you will help us by undertaking all of these.

Having a large airport on our doorstep will cause us harm in so many ways and we need to all work together to ensure it does not happen.Dungeness may never be the same again!

we comment

Thanks for mail re concerns about the local airport. There is an action group in the area who are opposed to the 'proposed expansion' and I will be putting their bumph on the web as soon as I get some feedback from the airport itself.

The main concern would seem to be over the hype of increasing the passenger turnover to 2 million in the next few years. According to Shepway Council the operators at Lydd already have a certificate to handle this volume of traffic without further reference to anyone. The only time the council will get involved is if planning permission is sought for the extension of the runway and or terminal buildings. Then the matter will be open to public debate but it would seem that the council is supportive of any expansion that will bring greater prosperity to the area.

With regards to the impact on the area you only have to look at Stansted, where in the sixties there was uproar over the expansion but after everything settled down the area has prospered beyond all expectations.

House prices will soar and hundreds of jobs will be created which could help offset the effects of Dungeness A closing.

There will inevitably be additional noise but unlike inland airports 90% of this noise will be out to sea and only those directly under the flight-path being affected.

Overall any increase in traffic will bring prosperity to the area but I get the impression those who complain loudest are those comfortably off. They aren't particularly interested in those who are out of work or the fact that the area needs an injection of wealth. I suspect also that those who do shout loudest take their overseas holidays by flying from airports somewhere else that affect others - but as long ass its not in their back yard that's ok.

If you think back to the outcry when the nuclear power stations were to be constructed (if you are indeed a local going back to the sixties). As time went by everything settled down - safeguards are put in place and apart from the odd so called friends of the earth we all seem to accept things for what they are. In any event if we are to have airports, nuclear power stations, deep sea ports is it not far better to have them away from built up areas - even though it will affect a few?

Dungeness media news June 2004

2009-11-25T23:50:00.001-08:00

1st June 2004

Following on from a Channel 4 programme on a couple of shacks at Dungeness, Radio 4 brought their Excess Baggage Saturday morning programme live from the Pilot Public House.

The Channel 4 afternoon show ‘Up Your Street’ looked inside a couple of the properties and the owners visited each other’s houses and had their comments recorded. All very low key and just another example of inexpensive reality TV filling a slot during the day when no one watches. Not a bad programme really and hosted by Simon O’Brien, late of Brookside.

There was some activity recently which involved several AA vehicles (the Automobile Association for our overseas readers who may mistake it for Alclolonics Anymouse). The latest tv ads for the AA would seem to have a few nano seconds of what appears to be Dungeness but all too quick to really identify

We also learn of two groups recording songs inspired by Dungeness. The first features on a cd from Athlete and the other Three Litre. Keep an eye out for them.

Council tax bands

2009-11-25T23:49:00.003-08:00

18th January 2004

Anon Dungeness

Band A Tax - but for how long. Following the governments direction that there ought to be more council tax bands Shepway District Council have confirmed that they will be looking at all properties in the area and re-assessing the Bands! What was the matter with the Tory ill fated suggestion that taxes ought to be based on the number of (tax paying) individuals residing a specific property? It would seem the fairest of all solutions but unlikely to ever come to pass

Channel Four TV program

2009-11-25T23:49:00.001-08:00

16th January 2004

A couple of shacks on the beach will be featured in a forthcoming Channel Four programme. Watch this space for further details.

local gossip

2009-11-25T23:48:00.003-08:00

6 January 2004

From P.L. Lydd

'Although Shepway District Council denied any knowledge of Lydd airport having any association with the golf club last weeks Herald (w/e 12th January 04) reported that the airport had indeed purchased the golf club - but of course not for any expansion of said airport - We'll see!!!'

Directory enquiries

2009-11-25T23:48:00.001-08:00

5th January 2004

Response to local new re directory enquiries - the numbers you quoted may be the cheapest in theory but if you accept the operators invitation to 'put you through' you will be charged over 50 pence a minute - so beware and accept the number only. A.P. Littlestone

Dungeness news January 04

2009-11-25T23:47:00.001-08:00

20 January 2004

Welcome to the beach Snoo and Ann Wilson who have recently purchased 'Wi Wurri' from Nick and Kirsty Elliot who have moved to larger premises in New Romney.

Four enquires in past month re bed and breakfast.

Is any one out there providing this service – preferably on the beach. We have passed on details of the B&B’s on coast drive but if anyone has the desire or inclination to provide the odd visitor with a bed and a meal please let us know and we will advertise the fact.

Did you know the airport has a very good lounge bar and dance floor. Ideal for parties, functions etc. Have visited a couple of times and it is sad to see the place so under utilised.

Did you know that the cheapest Directory Enquiries is 118 800 (Directory Enquires UK) at 19p per minute and no connection charge and 118 888 (Conduit) at 20 pence per minute and no connection charge. 118118 is 49p connection and 9p per minute – the most expensive and the most popular. Why are you using them? The power of advertising or simply a fetish for men with droopy moustaches??

Did you know Enroute the travel people can get you to Paris on the tube (Eurostar for £79.00) day trip or £129.00 for a nights stay including hotel and further nights at £25.00 per night. You don’t have to live local to take advantage of those prices!

Up in Smoke

2009-11-25T23:46:00.001-08:00

You never know who calls! A ‘customer’ visiting Jim Moate’s ‘Smokery’ asked if he could write an article about him. The result and completely unexpected, was a 3 page effort complete with half a dozen photographs in the NFU Countryside Magazine (0870 840 2030 – www.nfucountryside.org.uk). The magazine is of very high quality and full of interesting articles. It is available by subscription for just £39.50 per annum)

The article on Jim and the Smokery is reproduced here in its entirety:-

UP IN SMOKE

Curing fish is a dying art but on the Kent Coast, one man continues this age-old craft.

Black tarmac snakes its way round rusted anchors, old boats trailers and crab pots. This is the road across Dungeness, a shingle beach on the Kent coast in the shadow of a nuclear power station. Stark in their beauty, ramshackle fishing huts nestle defiantly on million of pebbles, daring the sea to wash them away.

There has been a ‘smoke hole’ or ‘herring hang’ at Dungeness for hundreds of years, ever since the fishermen who lived there started preserving their catches for their families. Now, most of the fishermen have gone, replaced by weekenders and art galleries selling photographs and watercolour paintings to tourists. But there is one smokery left.

Former fishermen Jim Moate has lived at Dungeness all of his life. ‘The community has changed a lot during my lifetime’ he admits. ‘It used to be nothing but fishermen living here. Every house was a fisherman’s cottage and all the people who lived in them were closely involved in the industry. Now there are very few left’. Like countless others who once made their living from the sea, Jim has been forced out of the traditional lively hood. ‘I had a back injury and was told not to go back to sea again. The Doctor said if I did my back in a second time it would be forever. I did go out fishing but I had to be really careful. If you don’t go full pelt you just can’t earn a living, so I gave up’.

Instead Jim started experimenting with smoking fish. He learned his art from talking to the old men on the beach and from recipes found a ‘Pearl Cottage’, the 270-year-old house where he lives. ‘I asked and the old boys were all quite friendly about it. They gave me their recipes – some good and some not so good- and told me what they did. I took the best recipes, had a few practice runs and gradually started to make a living from it.’

Smoking, or curing is a centuries old way of preserving food. It’s a two stage process involving salting the fish before they are smoked. Jim uses only top quality fresh fish, which are placed in a salt water brine, then placed on racks or hung up to smoke over a low, sweet smelling, smouldering fire. He uses oak sawdust, which gives a distinctive flavour and natural colour without any dips, dyes, preservatives or chemicals.

The brine cures the fish by driving out the water and replacing it with a saline solution. This is essential because the amount of water left in the fish determines how long it can be kept. If there is too much it will go off quickly. The smoke, which has an antiseptic property, glazes the salted fish, sealing it like a natural polythene wrapper, keeping in all the goodness and preserving the meat.

‘I could cure a fish so you could bury it with a Pharaoh and it would never go bad,’ says Jim. ‘It would be as hard a stick of wood and you’d have to soak it for a couple of days to get rid of the salt. Years ago people used a lot more salt but customers don’t want so much these days, so I only cure fish to last a couple of weeks.’

Many factors are essential for successful smoking: the strength of the brine, the condition of the sawdust, the type of fish and the length of time for which it is to be smoked. The height at which the fish hangs in the smokery can also determine the flavour. Even the weather plays a crucial part in how the final product tastes – or indeed, whether it is edible at all.

In humid weather, fish does not dry properly after it is salted. It stays damp and doesn’t smoke very well. ‘Stormy weather is a nightmare,’ says Jim ‘any storm will make the fish turn funny. Storms can turn milk off and they can upset fish as well. It’s only happened to me once and I had to throw the fish away. Now, in heavy stormy weather, I don’t smoke at all. Its just too risky.’

Different fish require different salting methods. Oily fish must be brined for a longer period and they take more time to absorb the smoke. The types of wood affect the flavour too but Jim sticks to oak as it gives a consistent result. The taste is subtle and sweet rather than overpowering and the fish flakes easily once cooked. ‘In the old days everyone around here had a smoke house because they used to do a lot of bloaters,’ says Jim. People didn’t have fridges so they cured the fish to preserve it. Now it’s an art only found in cookery books. They often say salt everything for an hour and a half in different strengths of brine. But it is far easier to have one strength and vary the length of time.’

The fish comes mainly from the Kent coast, although freshwater trout and salmon are brought in from farther a field. Depending on the type of fish Jim uses one of two methods. – Hot smoking or cold smoking. Cold smoking cures raw fish at a low temperature in a specially built wooden shed. Whit fish, such as haddock take 18 to 24 hours; kippers take about three days and salmon about five days.

Jim cold smokes over night when the temperature is lower. But hot smoking, for which he uses a metal kiln, cooks fish as it is smoked. It is a shorter process and fish such as mackerel takes as little as 3 to 6 hours. It involves heating a flash plate containing the oak dust that sits at the bottom of the kiln. ‘I don’t take it too hot because that spoils the fish’ says Jim. I prefer a slower smoke. If it’s too hot the smoke can be so dense the fish will turn black and spoil in ten minutes. I have learned through more than 30 years experience. These days I can look at the smoke and feel the heat to know I have got it exactly right.’

Customers comprise a mix of local residents and passing tourists and Jim’s happy with that. In fact he refuses to sell to restaurants, nor will he set up a mail order business. He is proud to use time-honoured methods to produce a local speciality. Even the masses of modern food regulations that have put many small food producers out of business have left him undaunted. ‘I used to smoke meat as well as fish’ he explains ‘but the rules became to stifling. You have to use separate refrigeration, counters and knives. That was just ridiculous; everyone knows you wouldn’t put smoked bacon in with fresh smoked haddock. It became too difficult and wasn’t worthwhile. Now I stick to what I do best – smoking fish!’

Jim Moate, The Smokery, Dungeness. TN29 9NE. Telephone 01797 320 604.

Open Tuesday to Sunday throughout the year.

West Country Stoves for home smokers on 01363 773 557

And a paper back giving full advise on smoking methods for fish game etc. 0870 840 2030 ‘Home smoking and curing’ by Keith Erlandson.

Bloaters and Kippers – what are they? Both are herring. A bloater is smoked whole and a kipper is split and then smoked!

Letter to the Editor

2009-11-25T23:45:00.001-08:00

It is often stated that much of the vegetation is indigenous to Dungeness yet only 50 years ago there was nothing but sea kale so why is the tag ‘indigenous’ so glibly applied by the so called experts? Over the years gardens have been created, plants and seedlings brought in from afar and then the odd bird dropping seeds have been responsible for the quite rapid increase in vegetation in the area. So OTT have the authorities got that one local resident was to be prosecuted for clearing the area around his shack of weeds and grass. He unfortunately died before they could act but it was quite clear to him the wet behind the ears officiator, with his new wave ‘uni’ degree had learnt everything from text books and had not a clue what Dungeness was like 20 years ago yet alone 50. I suppose they have to justify their exalted positions.

From BS Lydd on Sea

2009-11-25T23:44:00.000-08:00

I heard there was an article in a Sunday newspaper that there were anti radiation pills available in case of a nuclear accident. Where are these pills and who can have them and what do they do?

Answer

We have traced the article back to the Sunday Times, which is reprinted in full.

We have also spoken with both managers at A and B power stations and also the safety team at Sizewell and Suffolk County Council, who seem to be a little more clued up than our local councillors. (for the record Jeff Stacey 01473 583000)

It would seem that the pills, Potassium Iodate are available but as far as A and B are concerned the distribution of such items has to be left with the local council land emergency teams that are already set up.

There has been very little publicity locally and a Shepway official made the comment that there were no plans afoot to distribute them – even if they did exist.

The Suffolk County Council emergency planning officer told us they are still drawing up plans for the Sizewell area and hope to have a package available by next May – although the pills are available for immediate distribution if an emergency arose. He did make a valid point – do we issue the pills and expect residents to keep them safely to hand or distribute them after the event when everyone will be under instruction to stay indoors and batten down the hatches – who in their right mind would go out distributing pills??

Pre distribution would seem to be the answer but it is felt that in the event of a major disaster there wont be too much left of anyone that a few pills would cure!

Someone out there may know – maybe the local residents committee have them already – please let us know.

See also web page National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB.org). Very good site and you can purchase your own Radon Detector kits for just over £30.00!! We shall make this site available as a ‘Link’

John Abrahams has contacted us from London. A frequent visitor and lover of Dungeness and the marsh. Wants to know what is happening re the plans to extend the airport facilities and the runway and also asks if there is any significance in the fact that Lydd Golf Club has been taken over by a holding company that has an interest in the airport!

Answer – not a lot has been found out. Lydia Terry, Shepway planning officer for the are has stated

Anti radiation Pills – Where are they?

2009-11-25T23:41:00.001-08:00

Over a year ago anti radiation pills were made available to those living within a few kilometres of nuclear establishments – to be taken if an emergency arose.

We have heard nothing from the local council or indeed the local residents association. Are they sitting on the stocks ready to give out or do we have to go and collect them.

We have spoken to the managers at A and B and quite understandably their attitude is they are here to make electricity and not get involved in the aftermath of a nuclear disaster. One presumes they would not be around for very long if something serious did occur.

The manager at Sizewell did know of the scheme to distribute the pills and raised an interesting hypothesise:- do you hand out pills now and expect every resident to safely store them away until and if a disaster occurred or do you wait until after the event and then distribute them – in which case where are you going to get idiots to go into a condemned area to give out the little pills. What is happening? Does any one know or is this another local council secret?

And more serious things there are to attend to – the owners of the lovely Streamline caravan have been told local councillors have received complaints about it being there it is. Evidently the parking of a caravan contravenes the terms to which residents have to abide. There are other caravans parked on the beach and the owners of these have not been served with such notice. Must be something to do with the Residents Association!

And the litter keeps piling up!! Not all of it is washed up or brought from Camber by the winds. Visiting fishermen would seem to be the biggest culprits. Other visitors seem to be using the refuse bins provided – so much so they overflow but the fishermen’s litter left behind is a disgrace. How nice it would be to find out where these litter louts lived and then deposit their rubbish on their door step. Me thinks there were would be an uproar. So why do they leave their crap behind? If anyone can photograph evidence plus vehicle details please email and we’ll see if something cannot be done.