1963 - The Goods yard, Vale Road

Somewhere between the end of the Medway Navigation Company and the construction of the A21 there was a sweet spot for the railway in Tonbridge, as coal, cattle and more arrived by rail. The goods yard opened up onto the high street, making this a living and breathing part of the town. Look beyond the good yards and you can see Priory Road, traditionally home to the railway workers and their families, who were given houses here along with a role on the railway. Listen to Margaret Maddison share her memories from growing up in this part of town in the 1930’s.

Pic: Courier Archives/Gavin Sawyer

Audio: ‘On The Street Where You Live’, My Fair Lady/Jeremy Brett
‘Dirty Old Town’, The Pogues
‘Sentimental Journey’, Doris Day