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Trevor Edwards | profile | all galleries >> Sheppey Pictures and Postcards >> Leysdown

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Leysdown

Leysdown on the Isle of Sheppey is a traditional seaside resort with award-winning beach and facilities. There is a busy, lively central area of The Promenade where shops and amusements contrast with the nearby Coastal Park and SSSI Site occupying the former historical airfield and aircraft factory site. A memorial to early aviators is to be found at Muswell Manor. http://www.muswellmanor.co.uk

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Leysdown Church	Nuts Avenue, Leysdown	The Sands, Leysdown	Ferry House Inn 1953	Scan_057
Beach Leysdown	Low Tide	Stan Northover	The Beach Leysdown	Kelly
Tennis Courts	Bay View	Donkey Rides on the beach	Beach, Leysdown	Nuts Avenue
Rose & Crown	St Ives Club Park Ave Leysdown	Manor Way Leysdown	Sands Sea Front	Beach Approach Leysdown

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toni flynn		16-Jul-2010 15:38
hi i use to go on holiday to leysdown as a kid every year our family holiday it was fantastic use to cry when it was time to come home .Anyone know of love farm its where we use to stay in a chalet mum said the club house was called the grove or little grove club house ,i woul love to see if anyone has any pics please xxxxx

Penny Havers nee Hunter		28-Jun-2010 10:29
I was bought up in Sheppey in the 1950/60's, my cousin still farms there. My father built and owned south bank holiday camp. We previously owned Muswell Manor. I came back last year and did the memory lane trip...it was very nostalgic. I remember Tommy Holland, Stan Northover, Bobby Wilson , Ken Butcher, The Rose and Crown,Leysdown and of course Len and his toffee apples and peanuts and his cry ..... I still have friends that I visit from time to time. It would be good to hear from anybody that remembers the Hunters.

Sheri		09-Jun-2010 22:14
I'm looking for a friend called Hayley. Her family used to run a cafe in Leysdown on Sea during the 80's. I guess Haely would now be mid 30's. I wonder if anyone knows where she now is and if her family still have the cafe?

joy		05-Jun-2010 09:21
thanks roy, nice to hear from you.just got back from a weeks holiday [not leysdown!] and got your message.our family came from burnham bucks too.although that area now is under berks i think. speaking to my sisters about you and they were thrilled to learn that you and your family had been to heydays and enjoyed happy times there like us. we look forward to seeing any old photos you may have. i now live in datchet berks.thanks again for getting back, joy.

Roy Crisp		31-May-2010 14:58
Hi Joy,great to hear from you,I dont really remember how we heard about Heydays,I think my dad saw an advert in Daltons Weekly?we stayed many times at 31,I dont even remember it raining but I guess it did.I dont remember your dad or even how we got in,I think a key was sent in the post,thinking back it must have been difficult to carry all our clothes in a huge case,we lived in Buckinghamshire and the journey by bus.train and buses again must have been horrendous,I seem to remember boys with 'prams'to take your luggage to the chalet!I think somewhere there must be photos of no31,I'll see what I can find and let you know.Finally,you say you lived in Burnham?my family and I live in Burnham,Bucks,I wonder if its the same one?,Speak soon,Kind Regards,Roy.

joy		31-May-2010 13:26
thanks roy crisp for your memories of 31 eastern rd heydays chalet.my father who bought it in 1958 owned it up until his death in 1973. shortly after that my mother sold it on.we like you,went there for our family holiday each year with the large suitcase and also remember the radio and listening to all the latest pop songs on radio luxemberg. at the time we lived in burnham and my dad often let the chalet out to other families.the chalet is still there but no longer named heydays we visited last year and the place has changed very little.i would love to hear of any other memories you have and did you know my father who was the owner at the time you went there?

Peter W		14-May-2010 10:33
What happened to the red Mine on the approach road to the beach? and what was the history of the mine?

Guest		08-May-2010 11:20
I have only known about Leysdown since 2007. Love the island and most of the people are some of the best I have ever known, but our dealings with just one holiday park, has soured our love of Leysdown. If it wasn't for the wonderful people in and around Leysdown, and the other lovely parks, this one privately owned park and how it is run could ruin the reputation of the whole island as somewhere to have a carefree holiday.

MR ROY CRISP		07-May-2010 11:32
Hi,I have many memories of No31,Heydays,Ithink it was the last chalet in the row?We went there during the 60's,63 or 64,I remember it had a small radio high on a shelf that picked up all the pirate stations,amazing as a 13yr old.I recall my younger brother running to the toilet out the back and hitting an open window(not clever)we would walk up to a shop and get saveloy and pease pudding for supper,there was also a stand in the middle of the pavement?where a woman called bingo numbers but outside?.we had no car so it was always buses or trains to get there with my Dad pulling a huge expanding case for ALL the families clothes,a brilliant holiday everytime,I often wonder if Heydays still exists as I've not been back,thanks for the pic's,Roy.

Jackie		06-May-2010 02:24
I grew up coming to Leysdown every august bank holiday with my parents and siblings. I loved the chalet we stayed in each year on Vanity Farm. As a teenager a group of us drove down from Eltham every Saturday night to Stage 3. In later years we bought a chalet ourself but sold it to become wardens on Warden Bay, working for White Horse Leisure, George and Maureen Wharton. Now living in New Zealand this site bought back great memories, thank you.

angelaw		03-May-2010 11:17
From Angela W to Rosie. Hello Rosie. Thank you for you post. My husband, daughter and I met with your brother and his wife last weekend. Had a fantastic time chatting about allsorts but of course very much about our family history. This was fantastic for me because I knew so little about my father's side of the family. I really hope your brother can let me know when you are next visiting so that my family and I can drive up and meet you. Only a 45 minute hop from Lincoln to your brother and sister law. Really look forward to it. It means a lot to me to make up for all the missing family history. Take care Rosie, hope to meet soon. PS Thank you to the site owner for making all these connections possible. Angela W.

Guest		03-Apr-2010 07:29
Lived in the Rose & Crown late 60s to 70s, remenber many of the old regular caracters including --- Frozen fred, Kipper tom, Doggie jim, Brewmaster charlie, Kelly the bog man (used to live in the gents toilet block shed at the back of our old camp site side of the Rose and Crown) , Johnie the watch , Cockle Annie, Eddie & Sadie (musicians),Toffee apple Len, The drag queens (racheal & ?)Fishy Philis, so many other local characters just cant recall them all. Must not forget Bill Baileys hamburgers spent all my pocket money with him lol. John

Rosie		07-Mar-2010 10:13
message for Angela W. I have spoken to my brother who has apparently been in touch with you Angela, obtained your contact details through our cousin Carol. Looking forward to meeting you also at some point in the future when we perhaps are visiting my brother who lives in North Lincolnshire. It would be good to meet another cousin especially from my father's family with whom we had little contact. To guest 'Sheila's youngest', please pass on my best to your Mum, I hope she is well

reg counsell		03-Mar-2010 12:20
to guest re stan northover march 1st please print your email on this page so we can share memories. ps i must have been me who told your friend to take his feet of the table hopeing yo hear from you soon reg

Guest		01-Mar-2010 21:00
I had a teenage summer job in Leysdown and remember it with clarity. I worked for Mr and Mrs Forrest serving ice cream and milk shakes which, for a 14 year old, was the epitome of sophistication. Mr Forrest had a sister, Margaret, who was very kind, and Old Mrs Forrest (that is said with respect)was the family matriach; as my lunch invariably comprised a doughnut, she would tick me off for not eating sensibly; but they were great fun to work with. Of course, I remember Mr Northover (Senior),though I was never introduced to him formally. I was having coffee in his cafe next door to the amusment arcade and one of my friends was very politely rebuked for putting his feet on the table. The friend seemed to spend most of that summer in the amusement arcade, and got to know Mr Northover (junior), who once gave the two of us a lift in a his red sports car; that may well have been a contributory factor in some of my philosophy. Barry Wellard, a tallish, slim, fair haired man, used to work for the Northover family and I can just about remember Rita Northover who appeared very fashionable. Of course, one moves on, and since then I have skipped around the globe, but it is still a summer I cannot forget. Mr Counsell, although you have given your telephone number, I would prefer to email you, but seem unable to find your address. Please, could you print it in a response to my email? Perhaps, the Northovers should return to Leysdown, along with not a few of us, to recall old times?

jackie mattingly (gibbard)		23-Feb-2010 16:34
brilliant site, loads of luvverly memories ; does anyone remember johhny oram bingo caller in stans bingo opposite ritas shop? does anyone remember jackie and kay? we used to go in charlie bakers(king henrys) opp seahorse. fantastic times 1973 to 1987. moved back here last year, stil great place!

reg counsell		23-Feb-2010 11:00
hi martine i have been in contact eith stan northover jn the name harry rose rings a bell i can not place him at the moment,i am asking trevor to print a photo of stan northover at the island hotel leysdown which i think is a classic. reg counsell

reg counsell		17-Feb-2010 20:15
hi stan i rember you when you were young and was a good friend of your dad and your grandad please phone me and let me have your email adress then i can send photos phone 01303 874948 hope fran is keeping well all the best reg

Annika Douglas		16-Feb-2010 00:49
Hello,Im Annika,daughter of Ian Douglas born 1936,who was the youngest brother of the Gillingham triplets. Rosemary,Margaret and Joyce Douglas. I Came on the site to see if anyone remembers my dad or his mother Bessie Miriam Douglas. She owned a property on Leysdown Road (Main Rd) called Hazel,or 110 as its now known. I have looked through the photo's with my dad & he's told me all about what it was like as he grew up there.Would really love to get in touch with other people he might have known. Annika

Martine R Clark		15-Feb-2010 23:22
My name is Martine and I'm hoping someone out there may have some old photo's (from the 60's)of the Northover's and a man named Harry Rose.In the late 70's/early 80s Lloyd Northover and I were a couple, and i was close to the family. When Stan had the Island Hotel apparently Harry Rose was there alot, i would dearly love to see some pictures.

Guest		15-Feb-2010 11:31
Hi Reg, I am actually Stan Jnr Jnr, i.e. Stan Earnest Northovers grandson. Mums name is Franny. We all lived at Beverley when I was younger. I would greatly appreciate if you could upload any photos of the family, and tell any stories from old times...? Mum and Dad lost the majority of their photographs when their beach chalet washed away. Mum only has a few that Rita passed on to her when grandad died. Mum wishes to be remembered to you and hopes you are well. Are you still living on the Island? Also, you wouldn't have any photos of Harry Rose by any chance as well? Best regards, Stan Best regards, Stan

angelaw		09-Feb-2010 12:08
Hi Rosie and Guest, last message september 09. My name is Angela White nee Calverley. my mum is Betty (Florence Elizabeth). I was born in Sittingbourne and my dad was Walter Calverley. So sorry not to have seen your message. much happening and very involved with a 'family tree'study for a friend. I hope my slow response has not lost me the chance of a new contact in the family. 'Guest' and I have already met and I think it is wonderful to be able to get to know our wider families. I live in Lincolnshire but still visit Sittingbourne to see Mum and other relatives. So pleased to make your acquaintance Rosie. Hope to speak again I will check back soon.

reg counsell		07-Feb-2010 11:26
I HAVE MANY STORIES AND PHOTOS OF STAN NORTHOVER AND ALL THE FAMILY YOU CAN CONTACT ME ANY TIME ON THIS SITE OR MY EMAIL ADDRESS.

Guest		04-Feb-2010 20:05
My parents knew Stan Northover. They ran his football pools game. I remember hearing the story that when they arrived in Leysdown they had nothing, and Mrs Northover started a cafe next to where they later had their amusement arcade. I remember having a bacon sandwich in there. Apparently they were so poor, Mrs Northover had to buy a hoover on the never-never at 2/6 aweek! That's about 20p now.

Guest		02-Feb-2010 11:48
Hi, I'm doing research on Leysdown. Can anyone share their knowledge of who Stan Northover was? Apparently he was a well known character in the 60's? Any information/knowledge/opinions of him and the family would be greatly appreciated. Cheers

Guest		29-Jan-2010 11:44
For Shannel Walker; The clay cliffs with the WW2 bunkers not far from Leysdown is Warden Point, there are pictures of the village and cliffs on this site. If you want to know more about the bunkers, they were part of the Chain Home Low radar network. There are some good websites specifically about Kent defences that will have more info and pictures.

Philip Robinson		23-Jan-2010 10:03
A great site and brings back loads of memories,my farther John Robinson used to run the go kart track in the seventies.I used to go down on school holidays to help him.what a great time it was for me.Bony M (brown girl in the ring)was always on at the club house in the camp site .Anyone got any photos from then.I would love to see them as i do not have many photos of my farther.

Graeme Frost		14-Jan-2010 21:45
Nice one Trev, think I remember you from school? Great memories of the island. Peanut Len used look after me in my pram for my mum when she was busy in the shop that she and my dad owned. Think it was called Arthurs stores, it was next door to the Rose and Crown. Their names were Dee and Reg Frost, they also owned Bell Farm House and site, were I was born in 1956. I lived on the island until the early 70's. I have two brothers still there and get back on the odd occassion.

Tom Lyons		03-Jan-2010 18:08
The first time I entered the enclave of Leysdown was probably 1972, a weeks holiday at the Happy Valley Park, just off Ocean Road, or is it Sea Road?, which runs towards Warden Bay, then during the early 1980's the odd visit to the Stage3 nightclub to hear the Cerwin Vega Speakers punch out what where then the latest disco sounds, and from rumour it was burnt down? around 1985?, after which it may of become a temporary car park, but it was not the last of Leysdown I saw, I have been back to that far flung town many times since, in fact it only takes a little over four hours to cycle from Crystal Palace, so perhaps it's not that far flung at only 52 miles, and between 2000 to 2002 I lived further east at Thanet, an approximate 73 miles from London, an approximate 7 hour cycle from London, but by late 2002 I ended up back in London, it seems that for some of us, that you can take the physical out of the city, but not the mind, ah well, spring is on it's way, and I do plan a cycle ride to Hoo Pininsular and Sheppey soon, and Leysdown will be on the list of places to revisit, Tom, Crystal Palace, London, tomlyons77@btconnect.com utube name > LetsCycleToday

Shannel Walker		01-Jan-2010 23:36
Hi i'm Shannel Walker i'm only 15 and i've known Leysdown-on-sea over a year i had a chalet in Vanity Village untill my Mum passed away in May 2009 we had to sadly sell our chalet, Me and my cousin found abit of history what i can not find on the internet? on Leysdown-on-sea's beach at the bottom of the big clay hill, Its like a look out for bombings or an air aid shelter in not sure but its still perfectly normal but on its side and theres others but all smashed like they have fell from the hill to be honest its amazing i wish i took photo's now but annoyingly i dont think i can :/ can anyone help me find out please? :)thankyou

amy		06-Dec-2009 20:50
hello, my name is amy bolding, i am 19years old and have been going to the white horse leisure centre caravan park in leysdown all my life, as my mother and all her family did before me. i wonder if you knew my grandparents? rose and ted bolding. they have also been going to leysdown for as long as they can remember, :)

reg counsell		17-Nov-2009 10:23
TO TESS I AM STILL WELL AND KICKING..RE KELLY HE WAS A VERY TOUGH MAN,WHEN I HAD THE SANDWICH BAR IN LEYSDOWN I WOULD PAY HIM AND GIVE HIM SOME GRUB FOR WASHING MY FLOOR WHEN THE WEATHER GOT COLD HE WOULD STUFF CARDBOARD INSIDE HIS SHIRT TO KEEP WARM. HE DIED IN THE OLD PEOPLES HOME IN SHEERNESS. I HAVE A NICE PHOTO OF HIM TAKEN OUT SIDE BAYVIEW HOTEL AS MAYOR OF LEYSDOWN SOMETIME IN THE 60s HOPE TREV WILL PRINT IT

Tess		15-Nov-2009 15:22
To Reg Counsell - Hope i`m in time :-) I remember Kelly - We used to see him mostly at Sheerness when i was a kid in the early 60`s. I can remember my Dad telling me he used to be a boxer?? Teresa Bigg

Guest		10-Nov-2009 11:08
hi sharon its andy one of the battersea boys lol. please go to this web site jazzfunkand soul.com you will go back in time. we both are married with lots of kids. loads from 12 to 27 in ages. nicks in spain im in essex but we do go down leysdowne alot in the summer to see our mums.maybe meet up with you and your girls and show them were we all had great times all the best andy x keep watch this space

Sharon		05-Nov-2009 23:09
Must be over 25 years since I last visited Leysdown, but how fantastic to hear news of Nick & Andy. Perhaps I should re-visit with my own girls to show them where their mother mis-spent her youth!! Please pass my best wishes to those Battersea boys, if they remember me. Hope life has treated them well xxx

brenna dickinson		30-Oct-2009 10:04
I remember Sheppy, Leysdown and Sheerness very well from 1960. My parents worked for Stan Northover that summer, running his football pool Game. We had our trailer behind the motel he was building then...

Guest		14-Oct-2009 19:24
Rosie - Sheila's youngest

Rosie		30-Sep-2009 07:14
Message for guest researching Calverley and Bastard family. Will need to know your Mum's name to confirm as I think I know who you are.

Guest		19-Sep-2009 14:47
Rosie, yes am chasing Calverley's and Bastard - think you are my step-aunt think your dad William - he was my grandad.

Rosie		17-Sep-2009 11:57
Message for Angela, Lyn, Rena and anyone else connected to our family, the Bastards and Calverley's - have not visited the site for ages due to ill health but would welcome contact, seems there are more of us than first thought!

Guest		13-Sep-2009 11:01
nick and andy are alive and well sharon .still go down from time to time. great times always smile when thinking about leysdown. memories. never forget. hope you are well xxx

Malc		14-Aug-2009 09:07
A wonderful site, bringing back memories of holidays there in the 1960s. Just one thing missing: do you have any pictures of the M&D bus station/garage? I have been looking everywhere without success!

reg counsell		06-Aug-2009 12:54
Answer to Karl Phillips from Reg Counsell re. vanity site and station the station was on the left hand side where the bingos .are now it was closed in the late 50s, the site was bought by stan northover, he built a row of shops.a theatre,skating rink,and a zoo then after a big fire a bingo. from london you had to change trains at sheerness for leysdown and kids with carts made with old pram wheels would take your luggage to your camp at a cost of 6 pence in old money. i meet my wife to be in the old RAF N.FF.I just inside the gates of harts camp, her mother had a chalet built by kings of lewisham at the cost 185 pounds number 3 vanity no tolets or elec. calor gas was 5/-a bottle, there was a club house run by a rose phillips she was very stirct and known as the beast of belson hope your not related. ground rent was 25 pounds a year. the hoiday camp was on the right hand side at the round about in the high street just along the beach. hope this helps a bit, so memorys and good times. all the best from reg

Guest		04-Aug-2009 08:32
Alfred Bastard was my great great grandfather's brother so I have been fascinated to see the comments about the family and would love to be in touch with some of you relatives there. It has been good to see the photos of the area which I have never visited, but hope to do so next time I am in UK. I am taking a risk in publishing my email address : rena.brewin@yahoo.com because I would like to hear from any of my relatives. Thank you for helping me to get an idea of the area with your lovely photos. Rena

Guest		01-Aug-2009 15:22
Lovely collection of old photo's. My family had a chalet in the Warden Bay camp every year from 1950 - 1954. I remember the old club house which had old bus seats fitted around the bar. I also remember the mobile fish and chip van outside the Rose and Crown. I returned last week and found that many of the chalets still survive! Many thanks for your great web site Peter Towell

Karl Phillips		30-Jul-2009 15:24
Sheppey bottles, thank you for your reply.

Sheppey bottles		29-Jul-2009 10:22
Karl, the station was in the car park at the back of old Mr B,s Bobby Wilsons old place the Golden Horshoe. If you go to the far end of the car park you will see the track bank remains where it crosses the road to Loves camp and beach. The holiday camp is where the older Villas are now. Go down the promenade and turn right just passed the Spinney the camp was along on the left hand side. We used to go in there as kids for a free swim, join in camp games for the holiday makers and we even managed to get a few free meals in the dining room...Don't tell anyone though.

Guest		28-Jul-2009 13:53
Message for Rosie, You say that Kate Kenealy had 6 children, she actually had 7, I think that you are forgetting their first born son Frederick Walter who died just a 12 weeks old, but still he was born, buried as their son. The memorial card says '...The darling child of Frederick and Kitty Calverley,...' Kate Kenealy was my Grt Grandmother.

Karl Phillips		27-Jul-2009 17:02
Message for Reg Counsell, I am interested in any information about the Train that served Leysdown. Also I have a chalet in Vanity Village and would love to know more about this site if you can help

Karl Phillips		27-Jul-2009 16:48
Can anyone tell me where the Train station was located in Leysdown. And where was the Butlins type Holiday camp and has anyone any idea what year the camp closed

pauline collins		26-Jul-2009 00:22
going back 1959 right up to now i have always been to leysdown it it nice down there iam going next so if anyone as got any adderess of caravan i would like them if you can email them to me please

Sharon Munns		23-Jul-2009 11:21
Dear Trevor I see that you have linked to Muswell Manors the Birth place and cradle of aviations front page which has now also created a picture gallery of the 2nd and 3rd May 2009 Aviation Centenary celebrations. Which include the Battle of Britain memorial Flight and Tiger moth Team and with all of the unvielings of the three memorials and plaques here with much more of the two day celebrations. I was just wondering would you like to have a photo to add to your very good picture gallery? Kind regards Sharon Munns Muswell Manor

Angela		17-May-2009 15:08
Hello from Angela - ARE LYN AND ROSIE STILL VISITING? Just found this site today and will spend more time studying it. I love the way people keep their history and heritage alive in this way. It is fabulous. To Lyn and Rosie especially....my name is Angela and my father is - was -Walter Calverley, son of Kate Kenealy Calverley nee Bastard - my grandma. She died when I was four at our house and I dimly remember that night. I and a new found relative (who I will mention this sight to) have been researching our family tree - Bastard and Calverley lines. You mention someone else - a brother - who is also researching. I have lots of info and will certainly visit the Sheppy Heritage Centre when next down to visit my family in Kent. Would like to know more of my history, so happy to hear from anyone thru 'private contact'.

reg counsell		11-May-2009 15:24
Dear jean re. les and bill edge i ran the shop on vanity farm in the 60s later moving on to a shop i called FINGS next to rita's hair dressers then over the road a sandwich bar there was 6 photographers working at night in the clubs for bernie who had a ofice on warden bay camp. we printed photos at night in an old tolet block,my 3 camps were IVES. HARTS. and VANITY FARM. Do anybody remember KELLY who slept rough.? I am in my 80s now if anybody wants any imformation best hurry before i kick it.

regcounsell		28-Apr-2009 10:07
reply to doris dempsey. re stan northover the island hotel is now a old peoples home. i moved to hertfordshire with them in 1969 in partnership with a pub, stan died in cyprus in the 1980s i have lots of photos of him if you want copys.

anne		27-Apr-2009 12:36
Does anyone remember the Gem Stores run by Mr + Mrs Carrington in the late 40's early 50's? It backed on to our rented bungalow in Bay View Rd.We also stayed at a cottage opposite Leysdown church(alas no longer there)with partridges in the back garden.Another time we stayed at a bungalow called Meadowsweet which was next to the level crossing gates at Bay View in the 50's when the railway had been closed. We often walked along the empty track to Leysdown, going cockling at low tide and seeing a plane towing a target. All that lovely cold oozy mud between your toes! Walking to Harty Ferry and going in the church with its "old" smell, fishing for eels in the dykes and seeing the remains of a Sunderland Flying Boat on the Swale. Sheppy was a very important part of my childhood Anne

anne		27-Apr-2009 12:36
Does anyone remember the Gem Stores run by Mr + Mrs Carrington in the late 40's early 50's? It backed on to our rented bungalow in Bay View Rd.We also stayed at a cottage opposite Leysdown church(alas no longer there)with partridges in the back garden.Another time we stayed at a bungalow called Meadowsweet which was next to the level crossing gates at Bay View in the 50's when the railway had been closed. We often walked along the empty track to Leysdown, going cockling at low tide and seeing a plane towing a target. All that lovely cold oozy mud between your toes! Walking to Harty Ferry and going in the church with its "old" smell, fishing for eels in the dykes and seeing the remains of a Sunderland Flying Boat on the Swale. Sheppy was a very important part of my childhood Anne

pat		17-Mar-2009 14:48
Great site went to leysdown from about 1950 on nuts farm two familys stayed in a army bell tent with communal toilets and wash hand basin, no showers like people expect now. many loveiy times there. Evan met my husband there andwe have been married for 48 years

Trevor Howland		15-Feb-2009 09:57
Trevor - thank goodness for people like you who are prepared to put time and effort into producing sites such as this. I lived at Minster 1948 until 1959 ( when the dockyard closed & I moved to Rosyth Scotland ). I really enjoy looking through your site. Fond regards Trevor Howland

Doris Dempsey		12-Feb-2009 16:35
Anyone remember Stan Northover and his family, and their garage/petrol station/cafe on the edge of town (where exactly?) as my parents rang their bingo for them in the town in 1959. Happy memories...

Guest		18-Dec-2008 23:21
Lived at Henry's Bar opposite Sea Horse 1984-86. Remember Stage 3, Coffee Pot cafe, Rose & Crown, Rollins store. Anyone know if John, Cheryl & daughter Samantha still living there?

Rosie		29-Nov-2008 10:44
Msg for Lyn - I have spoken with my Mother and she has ironed out my confusion! Alfred Bastard was Annie and Kates father, and yes of course Annie had 6 daughters, no sons. Kate Kenealy Calverley, nee Bastard was my grandmother, had 6 children also, 3 sons, 3 daughters. My father knew Annie as his aunt who was apparently a very good pianist and that would make Annie Bastard my great aunt. Kates children were Kitty, (who is buried on the island at Minster), Mary, Madge, Ivor, William (my father) and Walter. My eldest brother has gone into the history of the family in depth but more the Calverley side of it.

Guest		27-Nov-2008 19:17
what a wounderful site you have so many memmories it brings back.i am currently sitting here with my sister Mary my name is Jean our surnames then was Elliott as i said we lived on warden bay hoilday camp for about 11,12 years which was owend by our uncles Les and Bill Edge ourmother was sister to them her name was Jessie and our father s name was Charlie they both worked on the camp and made many many friends there over the years .does any one remember them and the camp .the club was always busy and had a fun and family atmosphere there was also the blue lagoon swimming pool (open to all campers) in Leysdown. there was Bernie the photograopher Stan Slosher entertaiments and so many more if any one out there reads this and knowes us or the camp please write back thanks .

Lyn		26-Nov-2008 15:10
This is a message for Rosie. I'm a bit confused as my Annie Bastard had 6 daughters but no sons, however Annie's sister Kate's married name was Calverley and although I don't know how many children she had in total,I think that she had a daughter named Kitty.Does this make any sense to you??

Rosie		23-Nov-2008 15:51
Message for Lyn is she is visiting this site again - Annie Bastard was my Father's mother. He was William born 1910, and had brothers Ivor, Walter and sisters Kitty & Anne. Think we definitely have a connection somewhere! Does the surname Calverley mean anything to you?

anne love		13-Oct-2008 12:38
Well I love your site, have just arranged to have our caravan moved to Little Grove site I hope I enjoy it as much as everyone else seems to have.... I would like some wonderful memories too......

Neil Osborne		30-Sep-2008 16:50
What memouries of the old Holiday Camp we went several years always secound week in June sometimes august Bank Holiday Week as well i can remember 1970 watching the Mexico World cup in the Tv room in the camp England/Brazil, i think the only reason that we stopped going was the camp shut at the end of 1971 as we knew it. I can remember fantatic holidays when at one stage about 15 of the family going in mini bus used to meet up with same lot every year from London all the adults used to enter all the compeditions Putting,Darts,snooker my mum even won the tennis one year being the only one who entered.The mums and dads used to drink all week i can remember the freezing cold outdoor pool and the ramble on the last day ending in a trip back from pub on a double decker bus Have had many expensive holidays over the years Antiga etc but somehow when no one had hardly any money this week at the camp always stands out and brings alump to the throat as being the one holiday i wish i could bring back me and my cousin still talk about it now Happy days

Mark B		23-Sep-2008 10:13
I was brought up in Leysdown and moved from the Island in '87. Every morning I would walk down to the bus station to take me to school. It is a shame that they haven't done anything with the land. It is now an eyesore. A lot of my memories are from the winter when we would get blocked off by snow from the rest of the Island at Jenkin's hill. One year it was so bad that the army dropped potatoes outside Nutts house. A chinook off loaded food near the Island hotel and we would go and collect it by sledge. Later it was on the Six o'clock news. The holiday camps were deserted. I remember playing in 3 foot snowdrifts at Harts and Southbank. The day that we handing the house keys over was the 16th October 1987. The day of the great storm. It was a shock seeing the destruction, caravans toppled over, roofs lifted off the villas, trees down. Now it is hard to find the evidence. Summer, it was a different place, full of holiday makers. At night lying in bed I could hear the arcades, not to mention the parrot toy despenser, "here comes your present". There was the Briny and Greeno's corner with Derek and Rita. Two greengrocers opposite each other. The garage, the Fun Factory, Rollins later Ferns shop where the costcutter is now. The Royal Wedding when we had street parties. Not to mention that if you headed down to shellness it was quiet and could walk down the old airfield.

Lyn		05-Sep-2008 16:45
I grew up in Sheerness & can remember travelling to Leysdown during the summer months on an open top bus (possibly late 50's early 60's).Thanks for the wonderful memories. Also if Rosie (mssg left 21 May '08)is still visiting this site my greatgrandmother was Annie Bastard daughter of Alfred & grandaughter of Thomas Bastard whose picture is in Sheppey Heritage Centre on permanent loan by my sister.

pauline collins		31-Aug-2008 17:21
when i was 7 years old every year we came down to nutts camp site every night we went round the bingos and then when we came home we got abag of chips and on the way home we got some peanuts it would be nice to have it all back agine we came down every year

Guest		23-Aug-2008 09:02
hello what a great site you have my uncles owned warden bay holiday camp and my farther built the firat chalet on there i am sure that the photo you have of warden bay holidy camp that it is my father in the for ground of it at the entrence i lived at the camp with my parents from the age two untill i was about 13 wounderful times my mums name was jessie and my father was charlie my uncles were les and bill edge i wounder if any one remembers any of them. happy days

Hans Chr. S�rensen		12-Aug-2008 12:33
Very nice gallery! You have many great shot.

tracy marshall		30-Jul-2008 17:30
My grandparents had a chalet on vanity farm from 1977-1995. Loved Leysdown and miss it so much, we used to go to the paradise club and play pennies from heaven where all the drunk adults would through money and the kids had to grab as much as you could off the floor. Also Little miss paradise which I won and still have the trophy from.

Guest		20-Jul-2008 21:20
now in my 40's i remember going to leydown regulary with my skool friend who was lucky enough to have a caravan in leysdown. in my 20's i brought a chalet on priory hill (2 small) where my daughter, who is now 11 years old, was conceived. my brother lived in minster for a few years but has now relocated so roll on six weeks holiday when i can visit my favourite seaside town ever xxx

joy		18-Jul-2008 17:29
nadine11 i remember your nan and grandad who had the fruit and veg stall they were a lovely couple my mum used to get all our fruit from them. happy days they were

Sharon		11-Jul-2008 23:11
What a trip down memory lane! - We had a caravan on Little Groves,through the 70's and 80's. Spent many a great weekend there. Loved the Seahorse Disco (next to the pub) and The Island Hotel. Then there was the classier Stage 3, owned by the Wilsons (always thought they were 'Ewing family' of Sheppey!!! )and the DJ Tom Felton who used to be the bingo caller during the day! Ahh,good old days, lots of memories!!! - the Drag queen from the Seahorse Pub with his little white poodle, Milkshakes and chips in 'The Coffee Pot' cafe (run by two sisters I think) The Stage 3 'all-dayer' (for the royal wedding or was it the jubilee? And of course the boys!!!Nicky, Andy whatever happened to you????

nadine11		03-Jul-2008 19:38
I have many wonderful memories of Leydown in the 70's from holidays with my beloved Grandparents, Albert and Annie Smith, Aunt Lulu (Sarah Marsden, nee Harmer) my Mum, Janet, and family friend, Gladys. My aunt and uncle, Rosie and Dido had a caravan (and a fruit and veg stall, which also sold peanuts that my mum bagged up as a little girl). Another uncle, Charlie Harmer, married Rita Northover who had Rita's hairdressers. One of my earliest memories is of the Rose and Crown! After such an enjoyable trip down memory lane I think I'll have to re-visit Leysdown in the very near future! Nadine

nadine11		03-Jul-2008 19:31
I have some wonderful memories from the 70's. My Aunt Rose and Uncle Dido had a caravan, and a fruit and veg, stall in Leysdown. Another uncle, Charlie (Harmer) married Rita Northover (who had Rita's hairdressers). After viewing this web site and having so enjoyed the trip down memory lane - wonderful holidays with my beloved Grandparents, Annie and Albert Smith and Aunt Lulu (Sarah Marsden, Nee Harmer) I think I will have to visit! Nadine

nadine chapman		02-Jul-2008 19:05
My Aunt and Uncle, Rosie and Dido Slingsby, had a caravan in Leysdown, They also had a fruit and veg stall there (which also sold peanut's!). Another uncle, Charlie Harmer married Rita Northover from leysdown (had a hairdresser's called 'Rita's'). I spent a few very happy summer's there in the late 1970's with my adored nan Annie Smith (nee Harmer), her sister Rosie, nan's friend Gladys and my mum, Janet. Have lots of memories, where the sun always seemed to shine - rose coloured glasses and all that!

Guest		17-Jun-2008 07:52
Guest Lived on the Island for 17 years and it was great to read all the comments about Leysdown. Remember Len the peanut man very well as I also worked in Leysdown for a while. Lovely gentleman. Sometimes return to Sheppey to look up old friends. It has changed quite a lot but then everywhere has. Good luck to Sharon and Terry on your venture. It will be hard work getting noticed but I`m sure you will do it. Keep pushing.

Edward		28-May-2008 22:14
I used to DJ at stage 3 with Thomas Felton and flicks in dartford with Colin Hudd, I have some wonderful memories of Laysdown with me getting off with my first girl from the campsite opposite!

MALCOLM DAWSON		23-May-2008 11:42
I GREW UP IN WARDEN JUST OUTSIDE OF LEYSDOWN AND STILL HAVE FAMILY THERE .I COULD SPEND HOURS LOOKING UP ALL MY OLD HAUNTS AND SEING IF I RECOGNISE ANYONE

Rosie - Guest		21-May-2008 20:45
I have spent ages trawling through this wonderful site I found by accident, and am absolutely loving it! Congratulations Trevor for a work of art in progress. I first visited the island as a child with my parents, and regularly visited, eventually buying a chalet here, and then re-locating from London about 11 yrs ago, not knowing at that point that my paternal family originated from here. My greatgrandfather was Alfred Bastard who was a corn merchant and apparently had a store on Marine Parade. My grandmother was born in Minster about 1876-8, and I have been trying to find out more info ever since. Thomas Bastard is pictured in the Heritage Centre but no idea if they were related. I think our house is pictured in one of your photos showing Nutts farm, but as it has changed so much over the years I cannot be sure. It was once two farm cottages built circa 1893, was altered to a shop at some point and changed back into 2 cottages about 11 yrs ago. I love living here and wouldn't return to London if I was given a penthouse overlooking the Thames for free. Thanks for all the lovely pics and keep up the good work - will definitely keep looking in.

Simon Faulkner		18-May-2008 18:19
I was born in bermonsley in March 1968 and had my first holiday in Leysdown in the June of that year. My mum and dad used to have there holidays there every year as both of my nan and grandads both owned caravans on Nuts Farm camp site. I spent every holiday back in the 1970s here. I was even there the day Elvis Presley died 16th Aug 77. When it used to rain my mum would bye me a Airfix model from the camp shop. I could go on forever telling of my holidays on Leysdown. I will be returning to Leysdown on the 30th May 2008 for a weeks holiday. This will be my first time for thiry years. Stephen the one with the blonde hair and the purple budgie bike are you still out there?

Guest		13-Apr-2008 11:10
i remember stage 3 they used to hire out trousers if you turned up with jeans on.

Guest		13-Apr-2008 08:42
i remember len we used to call him the toffee apple man.we where from from south london and all millwall fans, len was a big west ham fan and always had his radio on listening to the football. happy days

Roger Tiller		31-Mar-2008 23:23
What memories, took me back to when i stayed there for six weeks with a touring marionette show i was 12 years old then i'm now 67 years old, we came there in a old ford 8 car with a trailer on the back to carry all the props, much later to appear on the Billy Cotton band show, black & white tele in those days. Can anyone remember them they where called the Jolas Puppet's

Guest		06-Mar-2008 11:05
does anybody remember the old man who used to leave his barrow outside the seahorse pub with a note on it saying buy some peanuts and leave the sixpence in the box. there would be little bags of peanuts all neatly tied up ready to buy, imagine trusting people like that today.

Tim Oxley		25-Feb-2008 21:49
Goodness, this site has brought back memories, and given me a good chuckle. Old Peanut Len was my Uncle. As kids, during the summer, we were brought up on a diet of toffee apples, Nan would get up at 4.00am to boil the toffee, & make them in her kitchen. In those days they lived at the bottom of Wards Hill, Minster. Len would get a lift up to Leysdown & sit there all day on his stall, and yes in the latter years had his blue, 3 wheeled mobility. Minster people would remember Nan, Mimma Oxley, with her very broad Scottish accent. I've spoken to people all over the country about Sheppey & Leysdown, over the years, and they all remember Peanut Len.

ashley		10-Feb-2008 11:53
I LOVE LEYSDOWN i used to come every year as a child, had quite a few abroad hoildays but leysdown i thought was better, i am 31 now with two kids of my own girl age 11 and boy age 7 i took them to florida orlando etc....it was a surprise for them, only my daughter was dispointed as she thought she was going to leysdown !!!! so yep this year we are staying in hearts....cant wait....i think they love all the train journey and sleeping in a caravan its an adventure....altho they do want to go back to florida...at some point...haha.. leysdown used to be a little quite resort no one really knew about but now its in all the brochures...and loads go every year...i would love to own a caravan down there...one day.... untill then i will have to dream...... x

sheila .c.		04-Feb-2008 22:46
yes, iremember old len who sat at the top of the promanade, spent every holiday there from 1955-1960, stayed on harts camp , chalet called the THREE JJJS, had the toilets outside, my dad had to light the gas lamps, many happy memories, shame we cant turn back the clock.

Guest		26-Jan-2008 21:36
I have a van on nutts farm.I cannot wait for march to come.So i can escape dreary london.Ihave 6 grandchildren who just love it.The friends i have made i look forward to seeing them after the long break.Just one more thing to say.I love leysdown;

Guest		22-Jan-2008 22:23
I love leydown i have done for the last 30 years ,i moved here 7 years ago from london and i would never move back . muswell manor is a very nice and quit location , but near all the shops amusments pubs bars clubs and doctors for every ones needs ,the cosy cafe is good all day for any food ,ie breakfast,dinner and tea ,our even a sandwich . The doctors are open 5mornings a week ,and if they can help you they can ,if not put you on the right footing .

Guest		11-Jan-2008 23:50
Oh, thank you for all the messages and memories. I have recently sold my chalet and gone on to pastures new. I will never forget family holidays in Leysdown and it is such a shame that for some reason the island is determined to get rid of the people who made the island. Such is life. Jan

Guest		11-Jan-2008 12:59
yes i remember the carlton stores well, it was near the rose and crown pub also remember the cosy cafe the handy stores where we got our gas bottles and the vanity stores. i also remember a man who was the caretaker of vanity holiday camp in the 60s his name was mr. butcher. from joy

Guest		11-Jan-2008 12:37
does anyone remember vanity camp there were two, one was on the right hand side as you came in to leysdown and there was another one on the left, this is the one i stayed at ,anybody else stay there?

Guest		04-Jan-2008 12:50
No one remembers the Carlton Stores then? Colin

Bob Johnson		31-Dec-2007 23:53
Great photos bringing a whole host of happy memeories flooding back from the 60's...We used to stay in the chalets in Southbank Camp...We used to travel down from Woolwich most years on the Sheppey Excursion.....I remember Len the toffee apple man, scouting for bullets from the ranges, stealing and cooking pigeon's eggs from the old air raid shelter, watching the fighters flying in from the sea when filming the film 'Battle of Britain', the bus station, walks along the cliff, such happy memories....Does anyone remember the night one of the arcades in the promenade caught fire and blew up....We used our buckets and spades to collect hundreds of scorching hot pennies, never been so rich...What about the horse rides in the smallpark behind where Len sat....Such wonderful memories....

Guest		07-Dec-2007 13:05
Any one remember a grocers called the Carlton Stores? In the late 60's I remember a chain smoking woman in there who loved to give the pork pies a touch of ash (accidentally of course) !!! Colin

John		05-Dec-2007 23:05
Happy days,lovely site with super views.We had a caravan on Nutts from the mid sixties on..when philpot was the warden.I remember peanut Len ,we used to go and get him drinks and help out in the summer.Sold newspapers round the sites in the summer for Paynes? shop.Roller skating at back of Parnells? Gary Greeno was at the bingo Las Vegas( an old mate in the scooter days).Remember crown cap bottle tops being used as bingo card markers...sigh jumpers for goalposts..they were happy days for sure. Loved the island so much we moved down her in 87. i collect old bottles from Sheppey and old seaside souvenirs etc.

John		26-Nov-2007 21:51
Went camping at Love's farm Leysdown twice in late forties. Aged twelve then. Had a great time. Used to collect mail from home from the dairy. Still remember the smell of the milk. Someone used to run trips for the kids from the beach into the sea using a world war 2 amphibian landing craft! We used to walk from the farm into Leysdown along the railway track, one train a day from Sheerness. A man at the farm used to round up the sheep on a motor bike. Toilets on the camp were abit primitive, When the drums were full they were loaded onto a trailer pulled by a tractor and towed away splashing all over the place! I remember watching the beauty contest at the pub where The Miss Leysdown Belle was selected. Happy memories enjoyed the pics.

daphnia		04-Nov-2007 16:48
I grew up in the 70's in Leysdown along with Paul Davis who has added his coments to your pictures. Fantastic images! Stage 3 was a product of the Wilsons who also ownedd Mr B's, which at that time was the Golden Horseshoe, and much welcomed it was at the time.

Terry		25-Oct-2007 19:31
Remember the go-carts well also the trampolines, Just came back from leysdown today and sadly it is not the same as it was then, shame..

paul davis		16-Oct-2007 01:37
Trevor great to see your photos.I was born in leysdown and lived there till I was 22. I now live in Minster. My family owned and run Central Beach caravan site from it's conception till 1981. You have a photo of my house ( now pulled down ) that I have never seen before. I have so many great childhood memories growing up in Leysdown and visit it often. My family also ran several other bussinesses there including the beach arcade, deck chairs, tea rooms and cafe.

Alan Haines		24-Sep-2007 21:29
Great pics that brought back memories (just about) from two family holidays in 1963 and 1964. Went back there last year to try and find Leysdown Holiday camp but I think it's gone which is a shame as I really wanted to see the old chalets again. I have loads of old pics from that period if you're interested?

kaffanded		27-Aug-2007 15:15
Stumbled on this website by accident, was having a memory lane moment this morning and thought I would look up Leysdown! What memories it has brought back, I used to go to Leysdown, Vanity Farm. Always went on holiday there from the early fifies. I remember the old chalets and the clubhouse which was an old barn. August Bank Holiday was always a great if not bittersweet moment., as on the one hand you had great activities such as the sack, egg and spoon races etc., and the evening the adults had their fun in the clubhouse. The downside was that it meant that it was soon time to pack up and come home again, which meant going back to school. Have thoroughly enjoyed looking through the gallery and the memories that they hold. I know I have loads of pictures which I will one day dig out.

lyn hansen		04-Aug-2007 23:59
my name is lyn me and my mum and dad spent years at leysdown holidaycamp with arthur thompson ents manager and after that came ben with the bad feet anyone remember ???? topsy turvey king of the camp .. i went back to leysdown recently HELPPPPP

michael alford		23-Jul-2007 16:37
i was always on holiday in leysdown with my nan grandad mum and dad must of been in the 1970s i started going there i remmber the fair on the beach they used to have go karts in there. now ive got a caravan down there and my children are down there.

Guest		22-Jun-2007 10:16
Thanks for so many memories. Spent many happy childhood holidays there during the 60's staying at Southbank and Harts holiday camps, entering all the fancy dress and talent competetions. In later years I moved there and spent a few happy years there, working in the Seahorse and the Rose and Crown. My daughter is still living there. Has anyone got any old photos of Southbank?

joy		09-Jun-2007 13:57
love the site trev. brings back a thousand memories. my dad bought a chalet on vanity site on eastern road in 1958. it was new then and was the show room for the sale of them. we still have the receipt forit �450 a fortune back then. i was only six years old and it was the first time i had seen the sea.i went there for the summer holidays for six weeks some times, wonderful. i remember the old man who used to sell sweets on the beach my dad had a drink with him once in the sea horse pub his name was tom but always known as kipper tom also remember len calling out toffee apples peanuts there lovely. our chalet was at 31 eastern road and was called heydays

Rina Scowen		18-Mar-2007 17:16
I remember the camp walk when we seemed to walk for miles and ended at a pub and discovered we had walked in a circle....happy memories of leysdown.does anyone remember being asked to get a grapefruit for auntie sarah, when they went to the shops.we had many good holidAYS AT LEYSDOWN HOLIDAY CAMP.REMEMBER BEING SEEN OFF BY BILL AND BEN ON THE COACH. I AM FEATURED ON THE GALLERY PHOTO SITTING ON THE WALL WITH MY Daughter. p.s.hullo kingy! Rene

Mick Luck		19-Feb-2007 10:04
went Harts as a kid with Mum and dad. Went to Loves camping with my brothers. Was aged 14 then . In later years , i am now 62, owned a caravan at Priory Hill site. Grpoun rents now getting too expensive though for " ordinary people" Great childhood memories forever

Rob		01-Feb-2007 00:39
His name was Len the nice big round man who used to sell his peanuts on the corner next to the old red sea mine. We used to see him everyday and he would ask us to get him drinks when he ran out he used to look so brown. I also remember the man who used to sell sweets on the beach from his goodie box hanging from his kneck like they used to sell ice creams in the cinemas. When the circus came to Leysdown we would first break in to a cafe and nick crisps and pies and then we would take our ill gotten gains and sneak under the circus tent and watch the show from under the seats. We thought we were kings of the hill eating our goodies and watching the show, Untill we got caught haha.

guest		22-Jan-2007 21:05
My Grandfather had the rose and crown for many years and later had priory hill caravan park, Charlie Arnold Sometimes known as the shirt. Looking through your webpages brings back some good memories. My Father had the wing cafe and I was born in leysdown 1954. Dave Arnold

Colin Franklin		03-Jan-2007 21:12
What a fantastic gallery. Brought back many happy memories of holidays from the 60s. My Nan had an old caravan at the top of the hill caravan sight (cant remember name of the place) but remember a big fire down the hill and the fire engine got lost and my dad hopped on the footplate to show them the way, with a very jealous 6 year old running behind!!. Another memory was the day England won the world cup in 66. The whole of the Island must have shook, it was lashing it down with rain so we went in the arcades and found a 10 shilling note and had fish and chips to celebrate.(what would 50 p buy now?) Also remember the old guy in the three wheeler invalid trike, dont know anything about him or his name till now. Great sight WELL DONE.

Derek Tucker		31-Dec-2006 14:38
wow love looking at the old pics of leysdown. My dad used to take us there for a weeks holiday every summer in the late 60s early 70s to happy valley chalets i took my wife there for a day trip only last summer and couldnt believe that its hardly changed at all in all that time. ps used to get a great strawberry milkshake in the childrens room of the bay view hotel can anyone else remember that

TRIGGER		28-Nov-2006 21:46
there was only one stage 3 mark and rob wilson now own strawberry moons STEVE WALSH LARGER THAN LIFE IN ALL RESPECTS R.I.P THOMAS FELTON AADIL JOHN LEACH PAUL HARSDCASTLE GINGER JAY NICKY WARRY JON JON NIC AND TRACEY UTTON BLACK"trevor little"MILLWALL BUSHWACKERS

colin		25-Nov-2006 22:51
i new peanut len all his life his full name was len oxley,he had polio as a boy, but what a happy go fellow he was,he passed away a few years back god bless him.

linda hansen nee wescott		12-Sep-2006 15:05
all through the 50s I spent every holiday at leysdown holiday camp Arthur thompsom was ents manager and we campers put on some wonderful shows .. my dad stan was often king of the camp!! we had some great times linda x

Guest		03-Sep-2006 08:51
stage 3 was the best thing around at the time,now its knocked down ,its an out door market.

Guest		03-Sep-2006 08:31
does anyone know were moores holiday camp is/was at eastchurch,my wife use to go as a child,but cant find it

Gary		16-Aug-2006 12:35
Stage 3, must have been 1984/85 when i used to go there get drunk then sleep in the car outside overnight, across the road on the dirt track road. I remember Tony blackburn and Steve Walsh DJing there, not long after that Steve Walsh was killed in a car crash. Any one else remember Stage 3.

Danny		19-Jul-2006 12:04
I remember the holiday camp very well. Just wish there were more pics of it. I had a truly great fortnight there in 1967 or 68. Met some guys from Brixton and 4 girls from Tottenham/Edmonton..Still remember they great holiday..Hope they are all still around somewhere

Julie		18-Jul-2006 15:03
I love the photos! I spent 12 months in Leysdown, I worked in the nightclub Stage 3 in 1980, does anyone remember the nightclub? I had many good memories about the village, everyone was so friendly, sadly I never got the chance to go back and have a look at what has been changed over the years. Hopefully, one day, I will go back.

Roy Preston		14-Jul-2006 13:59
My God, the memories! I was born in 1945 in my Aunt Maggie's bungalow in Easton Road (Halfway down the main street towards the beach, turn left into Easton Rd by the newsagent). All my summer hols were spent there from '45 until '58. Mum and I arrived from London by coach at the top of the main street, and I couldn't wait to get to the bungalow to see my eccentric Aunt Maggie. It was bliss -- sunshine, ice creams, the beach, Stan's bingo. Not a care in the world. Sadly, I see from maps, that Easton Road no longer exists? I haven't been back since '58, due to health reasons. What is it like now I wonder? Thanks so, so much for the wonderful memories! Roy Preston

osbjef		29-Jun-2006 13:30
Fantastic images!!!My childhood was spent down at the cornation camp,off of mustards road ( near the bayview pub, Leysdown )in the late 70's to mid 80's.my sister and myself have great memories of spending weekends down there with my belove grandparents.Has anyone got any photos of that camp??

Doug		24-May-2006 08:58
Great site. Brings back many memories of family holidays. The old fort buildings moved further down the cliffs each time i visited. they should try and preserve them as historical buildings somehow. Whatever happened to the bus garage at Leysdown? does anyone have any pictures of it or the busses that served it?

Richard Cormack		08-May-2006 21:30
I belive the peanut-sellers name was not les but Len Oxley like the site its very interesting

Teresa		23-Apr-2006 10:57
Hi I remember Les too... a lovely old chap who was disabled - Does anyone remember the turquoise invalid cars (3 wheeler) from those days? Les used to sit in his all day. My Dad had a bingo hall on the corner about `63 and we used to talk to Les a lot. He really liked children and was always happy to chat with us.

Lee		16-Mar-2006 12:32
These photo's bring back so many childhood memories. My Dad was Ricky James who sang in the Warden Bay Hotel andother places in the 1960's & 70's. We had caravans and chalets all the time I was growing up.

Jenny		14-Mar-2006 08:06
Thanks for some lovely memories ,,,,,,we went to Leysdown for years and years ...very very happy days !!! I THINK the old weather beaten man someone was asking about was "Tubby" used to sell the seafood !!! Shame to kids of today don't have the same sense of fun we had ......my husband bought a chalet in Leysdown (he too went there as a kid !!) as a surprise for me and our children and they were bored senseless !!! "WHAT do I do on a beach all day ??" was one of their moans ...we kept it for a few years then sold it on ...none of our lot enjoyed it ...shame ...they missed out on so much ...or was it that we were happier kids !!! Dunno the answer I'm afraid

Guest		01-Mar-2006 13:01
Thanks John re Les - after all these years I now know his name! I think I remember the Peanuts now you mentioned it!

John Sissons		28-Feb-2006 16:38
The Priory Hill staff think that the site is brilliant. Keep it up

john Sissons		28-Feb-2006 16:35
The beaten up old man on the Spinney was Les the peanut seller. I cannot remember his surname Great to see the old shots of Nutts Camp It is a bit differant now althought that Mk 1 cortina is still there i think

Daren Terry		12-Feb-2006 21:38
Sheerness buses please 1980's have any?

kyn		08-Feb-2006 12:12
the old army forts are now at the bottom of the cliff!

Guest		01-Feb-2006 12:46
Anybody remember the old weather beaten man who had a stall near a Seamine at the top of the promenade in Leysdown in the 60's?

Guest		23-Jan-2006 13:27
Re: houses at Warden - scan 96. I checked with my father and we do not think it was these. Mr & Mrs Monk's house was surrounded by about 6 others we think. We only went up to Warden a couple of times as most of the time we stayed put in Leysdown. We used to get around on bus a little via a Bus Garage (Maidstone and District) in Wing Road, Leysdown. Not there now I guess!

Gary		21-Jan-2006 11:24
Did Mr & Mrs Monk live in either of the houses in scan no. 96 ? (top of page) as these would have had lovely views. If so am very interested in more information on the area. Of course none of these houses have survived the cliff erosion, can anyone remember when they were abandoned and eventualy went over the cliffs.

Guest		18-Jan-2006 12:55
Re comment from Gary - I cannot help with a WW2 plane at Warden but I do recall there being a Jaguar car half way down the cliffs of the type that Inspector Morse had! My Dad had friends at Warden called Mr & Mrs Monk - loveley view from their house. If anyone can remember the old weather beaten chap with a ruddy complexion in Leysdown (mid to late 60's era )please leave a comment. Colin

Gary		18-Jan-2006 10:59
All the photos bring back memories, my family had a caravan at warden point during the seventies, and these were indeed happy times there. Does any body have any information or photos about the WW2 plane that was found in the woods at warden point around that time or even the army forts that used to be at the top of the cliffs near the post office.

Guest		17-Jan-2006 12:53
Love all the photo's of Sheppey. Leysdown was our holiday destination in the mid to late 60's and they bring back happy memories for me as a young boy. Always remember there was a weather beaten old man who used to sell things from a stall at the top of the promenade I think near a Seamine from WW2? I remember the graffiti on a wall near a bus garage written by mods ( The Who ). We used to stay in a chalet at Priory Hill and always got our groceries from a shop on the site or went to the Carlton Stores in the town. Happy days indeed!

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