A fascinating collection of photographs offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of people in a Kent market town.
Faversham residents were invited to share pictures throughout a Covid-hit 2021 to form part of an exhibition showcasing the town and those who live there.
Kathy West told how wonderful it was seeing these "lovely ladies" having a dance. She added: "Made me smile. If I'd had a partner I'd have joined in."
And interest in the project - called 'A year in the life of Faversham' - was extraordinary, with 2,357 photos submitted.
Many of the images reflect the sobering effect of the pandemic, such as friends enjoying an outdoor gathering, a resident receiving a home shopping delivery, and a teenage boy enduring home-schooling on his laptop.
Others showcase the natural beauty of the town, featuring postcard scenes such as Faversham Creek and Oare Marshes Nature Reserve.
The photographs have since been whittled down to 365, which will go on display in the town this spring.
A special book containing every picture will also be released.
The initiative was led by independent arts organisation Kent Creative and was the 10th edition of its Project 365 series, and the fifth in Faversham.
A welcome refreshment stop during a walk through Iron Wharf on the way to the marshes in Faversham. Pic: Robin BowyerFenella Ross-Elmer photographed this stunning evening sunset, walking along the waterside. "I kept turning round, so glad I did," she said.Home shopping deliveries became a part of daily life for a lot more people. Pic: Lesley SearsBernard Plaister was on hand as these cricketers went up in Selling Road on September 4Jeanie Sandiford took this shot of "our friendly, helpful waste recycling workers"A cold and misty Sunday morning on the road to Oare Creek, looking towards Faversham. Pic: Graham LennoxSimon Morris loved the reflection created by this moored fishing boat during a Sunday sunset stroll around Oare Marshes Nature ReserveColin Alderman submitted this shot of a section of Abbey Street without cars parked bumper-to-bumper. "Very unusual!" he added.Lyn Powell captured Louisa playing Wildest Rose on her accordion at Faversham Market. She was also selling her CD, Whiskey Moon FaceJust another home-schooling day for this youngster. Pic: Nicholas BealA very high tide on Faversham Creek, showing how it's enjoyed. Pic: Trevor FentimanFriends, Max, Thomas and Henry finding their way around the Maze. Pic: Kathy WestThere had been a weather forecast of snow, but Faversham enjoyed this astonishing sunrise instead. Pic: Alexandra Campbell
Project producer Nathalie Banaigs said: "This is a portrait of Faversham, one with creativity and personality, where a community came together to express what their town means to them.
"The photographs in this project are a testimony since they describe Faversham during a cultural, health, economic, financial, social and political crisis.
"Photography is a means of expression, documentation and communication.
"I feel it was very important to record this special year for posterity."
Among those who submitted photographs was Trevor Fentiman, who said: "Being born in Faversham and having worked in the area, I have a love for the town.
"To take part in this idea was a good challenge, plus it was nice sharing not only the images but my enjoyment of being part of something special.
"After Covid it made me get out in the open, which had so many benefits to my health and self-esteem, making me get out and about when it was hard to get motivated."
Simon Tyler took this picture of "brilliant" workmen updating the ‘Keep Clear’ lines outside his houseMark Lewisohn captured this shot from the top of the Alexander CentreTony Gostling photographed these neighbours enjoying lockdown tea and hot mince pies in the garden when Covid restrictions were in forceA stunning shot looking across the field to the church on the Ashford Road from Newhouse Lane. Pic: Trevor FentimanColin Alderman snapped these mask-wearers at Crust bakers in East Street, which remained open throughout the pandemic. He said: "Masks may be compulsory but they don’t have to be dull!"Faversham's Recreation Park after snowfall in May. Pic: Genevieve EllisA camera-shy volunteer is adding stock to the shelves following a busy session. Pic: Mary RansomGlen and Rich, of Glen Charter Master Thatchers, working on an old cottage in Newnham. Pic: Tony GostlingLyn Powell entitled this picture simply 'Herd of cows with herdsman'Cooksditch Stream being restored by volunteers to encourage wildlife back to the area. Pic: Brian SummersSome ancient vessels at Oare boatyard, slowly sinking into the creek. Pic: Michaela SharpeAntony Bream sketching on a sunny May Sunday in Court Street. Pic: Brian SummersStorm and buttercups on Saxon Shore Way. Pic: Richard DrewTony Gostling said of this picture: "After all these months of lockdown the strain is showing. Hoping the postman has left your parcel."
Another participant, Anna Jameson, added: "I have lived in Faversham all my life and love this town.
"I am not particularly artistic but like the idea of being part of something creative.
"I also like the fact that I have been involved in recording a year of days, events, and the changing of seasons in and around Faversham."
The exhibition of the photos will take place from May 21 to May 24 at the Assembly Rooms in Preston Street.
