On this day in Kent
What has happened on this day in Kent over the years, with the occasional smile.
Covering major international events to the tiniest bit of trivia, it is amazing how many aspects of life have changed over the years, and equally amazing, how many things have remained the same.
This is an ongoing project which I hope to expand. Still a lot of work going on behind the scenes!
Career of crime falls at first hurdle
February 3, 1980
Magistrates fined Margate’s Stephen Heath £150 after he failed at his first and only burglary. Equipping himself with gloves, 2 knives, wirecutters and dustbin bags, he went to the pub for 6 pints of Dutch courage. Looking for his first break, a passing patrol noticed his furtive behaviour and promptly arrested him.
A bite to eat
February 3, 1961
There are more restaurants and cafes in the tourist city of Canterbury than there are any other type of food shop, discloses a council report. Restaurants number 96 against grocers (92), public houses (81) and sweet shops (38).
No to licence
February 3, 1939
Canterbury magistrates again refused a licence to sell intoxicating liquor at the Chez Laurie road house, on the coastal road, Chislet. There was strong objection from local trade and the LVA. The ‘Chez’ was demolished in the late 80’s as it was structurally unsound.
New station
February 3, 1928
It was announced that the Southern Railway was to build a halt at Swalecliffe at a cost of £2,500. It opened on 6 July 1930. It was later renamed “Chestfield & Swalecliffe Halt”, shortened to “Chestfield” in 1987 and reverted to “Chestfield and Swalecliffe” in 1989.
Tidal wave
February 3, 1904Freak tidal wave leaves trail of devastation in East Kent coastal areas
First meeting
February 3, 1888The inaugural meeting of the County and City of Canterbury Fox Terrier Coursing Club took place at Finn’s Grounds, Wincheap
Name taken
February 3, 1879Stopped by police near Dover for driving without reins, when asked for his name, George Piltcher said he didn’t have one since a policeman took it.
Pub assault
February 3, 1864
Thomas Ranchett was fined 11s for assaulting Isaac Pierce, landlord of the Millers Arms, Canterbury after Pierce refused to serve him as he was intoxicated.
Flogging
February 3, 1804
At eight o’clock, the signal for punishment was hoisted on board the flag-ship the Zealand, at Sheerness, when William Driffield, mariner, was flogged, pursuant to the sentence of a court martial on him for deserting from His Majesty’s sloop, Lynx.