Lads of the Village

Latest 1908

45-51 High Street

St Mary Cray

Nothing known about this yet and identified by Eric Rush as being addressed at 45-51 High Street and was operational till the late 1960s, under the rule of manager Bert Hawkins, but as what shop.

The following information has been kindly sent to me from Graham Wootten:- The premises closed as a public house in 1908, under the rule of the last licensee Henry Wright. On closing the building became a Post Office.

St. Mary Cray & Swanley Express - Friday 7 August 1908.

NEW POST OFFICE FOR ST. MARY CRAY.

A much-needed and important improvement is about to be effected in connection with the postal arrangements at St. Mary Cray. For many years the inadequate accommodation at the post office for the public has been a grievance. Now, we are officially informed that the spacious premises in the High Street, formerly known as the "Lads of the Village," which was closed some time ago under the new Act (compensation having been awarded) have been secured by the Post Office authorities and will be used in due course to carry on the business.

The premises are undergoing extensive alterations and repairs, and will, it is hoped, be opened for business in September or early in October. The more commodious offices will prove a great boon to the public as well as the staff, as the present establishment is most unsuitable, considering the great amount of business that is transacted. The alterations are being carried out by Mr. W. Winburn, of Croydon.

LICENSEE LIST

HAWKINS Bert to late 1960s

If anyone should have any further information, or indeed any pictures or photographs of the above licensed premises, please email:-

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