Nostalgic memories of West Malling's local history

Share your own memories of West Malling and read what others have said

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our web site to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was when the photographs in our archive were taken. From brief one-liners explaining a little bit more about the image depicted, to great, in-depth accounts of a childhood when things were rather different than today (and everything inbetween!). We've had many contributors recognising themselves or loved ones in our photographs.

Why not add your memory today and become part of our Memories Community to help others in the future delve back into their past.

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Displaying all 7 Memories

I’m trying to find out some info on the mental home my auntie was placed there as a child we are lead to believe this was due to complications at birth. She died in the home in 1976 of chocking at the age of 40. I’m wondering who holds the records of her and her life in here as I’ve read it was pretty grim.
Hi yes I remember my time at the hospital well,I worked in the play therapy from 1971 to 1976. I loved working at the hospital and have many happy memories. I worked as a night nurse for two years and lived in the nurses home. What fun we had in there,managed to upset Mrs glacier as her flat was above my friends room and when I had my break on nights we weren't very quiet! Wonderfull times, the best of my working life.
My parents worked there too when I was a child and we lived in Grange Close between 1970 and 1976 - the Kilgallens lived nearby - there were only 17 houses and it was a great place to be a kid. We used to play in the fields around the hospital and scrumped everything! I remember the riding school (we used to play on the garage roof) and I went to Leybourne Primary School. I also went to Holmesdale School in Snodland for a while. Reading some of the memories made me feel quite nostalgic.
I think that you are referring to Mrs Glazier. Sr Kilgallen managed CC3 and watched the staff like a hawk. I was feeding a resident one day and she tore across the day-room.."Wat daya tink your doin..we're troin ta teach these children taste and discrimination and your mixin it op loik cuncrete! Would you eat your food loik that?" I wouldnt dare give an honest reply,.."sorry sister"..."now move over and let me ...see more
My uncle use to work at Leybourne Grange as a gardener, in the fields also. Lived there.
The Haven was built by my grandfather, Walter Butler, for his wife - Rosie. I'm trying to source photos and memories of the cafe for my dad, Ronald Butler. He has wonderful memories himself and grew up there. If you've anything to offer, please let me know!
Does anyone have any memories of the Hospital Leybourne Grange in West Malling? I worked there from 1974 - 1976 as a pupil nurse and lived in the nurses home. I know the hospital closed years ago and is now a site for housing I believe. I would love to share your memories. Ann