Programme.

The 2 Friends' visits in 2009 will be:

Summer Guided Tour -- Drop Redoubt, Western Heights, Dover.

This visit will take place on Saturday, 30th May 2009 at 2pm.

This spectacular 19th century fortification is only open to the public one weekend every year, so do take this opportunity to view the fortress and look at the displays and stalls provided by the Western Heights Preservation Society. Please meet at the Roman Painted House, New Street, Dover -- in the car park at 2pm so friends can then travel together up to the Western Heights.

Autumn Guided Tour -- Cold War Bunker, Woodlands Park, Gravesend.

This visit will take place on Sunday, 27th September at 2.30pm.

This unique Cold War bunker (1954-1970) was a top-secret underground command post. It has been re-equipped as it was in the 1950s by the Thames Defence Heritage Group and Victor Smith will guide Friends around, also with a short film. Please meet at 2.30pm outside the Bunker, which is on the east side of Gravesend. Woodlands Park is on the Wrotham Road about 1 mile from the River Thames and Town Center.

All paid-up Friends are most welcome to join in -- just turn up on the day.

Please note that both sites include climbing or steps.

Practical work at the Leigh gunpowder mills

Leigh gunpowder mills were started at the beginning of the 19th century and finally closed in the 1920's, though gunpowder production had long ceased by then. Some of the site has been redeveloped for industry and housing but a large section remains as foundations of buildings and the sites of water driven mill-wheels and gears.

There is also a complex system of waterways.

The project will uncover specific sites, locate and assess as much of the others as possible, and produce a written and visual record.

The work is mainly clearance of scrub vegetation to provide access, then uncovering and cleaning the relevant brickwork. Secateurs, rakes, trowels and a stiff brush are the main tools required.

Any potential volunteers should contact:

David Hansell,
12, Haydens Mews,
Tonbridge.
TN9 1PZ.

Telephone: 01732 354802

(This is not a CKA-sponsored activity. Anyone who is interested should contact the organiser direct.)