News

Herne Bay Comedian Dave Lee passed away on 16th January 2012 aged 64. Dave, who lived for many years in Herne, was often seen around the town, shopping, supporting local events and raising funds for his charity.

The comic, best known in recent years for his regular appearances at Canterbury’s Marlowe Theatre pantomime. The Bench was a regular set-piece performed at the Marlowe pantomime which became eagerly anticipated by the audience.

A tireless fundraiser, he raised more than £2m for charity through his Dave Lee Happy Holidays - which raises money to provide trips for sick, disabled and disadvantaged children.

Dave Lee started his career as a drummer and singer and had several records released.

He went on to form his own comedy show band as lead singer and impressionist.

Dave Lee features on the Cultural Trail, Famous Faces mural on the seafront.

Bob Holness, TV presenter, best known for the children's TV programme, Blockbusters, died on 6th January 2012 at the age of 83. Bob Holness grew up in Herne Bay and his family still live in the area.

Bob features on the Herne Bay Cultural Trail 'Famous Faces' mural, on the seafront at the side of Cains Amusements.

Anthony Coburn: Script writer for the first Dr Who series lived in Herne Bay. An unearthley child was the first series of Doctor Who. It was first broadcast in four weekly parts from 23 November to 14 December 1963. The series was written by the Australian writer Anthony Coburn, with the first Doctor Who being William Hartnall. Anthony Coburn introduced the Tardis in the first episode.

Bessie Mundy: The first victim of the Brides in the Bath Murders in Herne Bay, is buried in a cemetery in Herne Bay. More information to follow.

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Rusty Goffe, well known actor, was born in Herne Bay in 1948. Rusty was an Oompa Loompa in the 1971 film Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory. There are just three Oompa Loompas alive today. Rusty has also played a Jawa in Star Wars, was part of the Hogsmeade Choir in Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban and has made appearances in TV programmes Little Britain and The League Of Gentlemen.

Dudley Pout, was primarily an illustrator comic artist who was born at Frog Island Farm, Herne, Kent on 24 November 1908. He was well-known for his movie posters. One of his famous paintings was 'Barley and Beer Time'.

New features to the Cultural Trail

Two new attractions have been added to the Herne Bay Cultural Trail. A barge anchor close to the Neptune Car Park, Central Parade, Herne Bay and an information board celebrating the World Air Speed Record, which broken over Herne Bay in 1945. Roger Gale MP, children from Herne Bay Junior School launches the new attractions. The anchor has been donated by local businessman and Board Member of Town Partners, Michael Khoury. Southern Water has sponsored the Cultural Trail plaques and anchor.

New Mural for the Station

Town Partners have comissioned Mural Artist, Dean Tweedy to create a mural at the Herne Bay Railway Station, which will feature two modern trains.

The work will start in early January 2010 and has been funded by a grant from KCC Councillors Jean Law and David Hirst.

New Landmark for the Town

The Sir Barnes Wallis statue on the Downs, Beacon Hill has become one of the most visited attractions in the area. Visitors are seen most days taking photo's of the statue, which is the only full size statue of Sir Barnes Wallis in the UK.

Since May to December 2009 we have had over 3,500 visitors who have picked up a Cultural Trail Guide and followed the Cultural Trail.

Cultural Trail Event in Herne Bay Town Centre

Land Army Veterans

Officers

40's Sweetheart

Time to get moving

Herne Bay princesses

Sea Scouts