By Hayley Robinson

Members of the Lynsted and Kingsdown Society have been overwhelmed by the public's response to help build an archive for the parish.

They managed to collect more than 1,000 items by holding two history mornings - one at Lynsted Church and the other at Greenstreet Methodist Church.

A computer, scanner and printer were set up at the venues to record all the artefacts brought along.

Items included deeds to local properties, old photographs taken in and around the area and people's wedding pictures taken outside the local churches.

The event proved to be so popular the society is now looking at making it an annual event.

Organiser Lis Heriz-Smith said: "Thank you all so much for taking the time to search out your material - we understand many lofts and spare rooms have been rummaged through.

"Some people enjoyed it so much, they have asked if we can make this an annual event.

"News of our project travelled far and wide with interest from as far away as Dorset and a visitor who made the journey from Croydon with information.

"This is an ongoing project so for those people who couldn't visit us, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any material you would like to share with us.

"The society's heritage sub-group will be meeting to discuss how the society can best reach its aim of recording and archiving this material while allowing easy access for everyone. Such things as a website, DVDs and booklets will be considered.

"We hope to mount a small display at Cherry Day in the community orchard in Lynsted on July 11, and at the Lynsted Fete on August Bank Holiday Monday."

n For more information, visit www.lynsted-society.co.uk or contact Mrs Heriz-Smith on 01795 522842.