The Dulwich Society

Chairman's Comment

Thursday, 22 December 2011 12:37 The Dulwich Society

One of the benefits of the former joint Lib Dem/Conservative Council administration was the introduction of Community Councils. This devolved some Council decision making to the local level – anticipating by several years the current coalition government’s localism and ‘big society’ agenda. However, as part of their money saving proposals the current Labour administration is looking to cut back on them. This would be very unfortunate as a recent event clearly demonstrated.

Looking Around with the Editor

Thursday, 22 December 2011 12:38 The Dulwich Society

There are well over thirty sports fields, parks and ornamental gardens in Dulwich. They are the legacy of the gift of 72 acres of land for the creation of Dulwich Park made by the Alleyn’s College Estate in 1885 and a further commitment of 127 acres as open space ‘for all time’ made in 1905. English Heritage is taking an interest in our sports grounds, to the extent that it is considering including them a book it is to publish. They are themselves surprised that such a large cluster of open space still exists in London.

Obituary - Ronald Gray

Thursday, 22 December 2011 12:30 The Dulwich Society

Ronald Gray 1929-2011

Dr Colin Niven writes:

It was an immense privilege to speak in the Chapel on 5th October at the Funeral Service and Celebration of the life of Ronald Gray. Personally, out of the thousands of people I have met, I knew beyond question that I had never met a nicer, more entertaining, or more impressive person than Ronnie. For the record I felt I should enquire of mutual friends, their opinion of him in an unlikely attempt to produce a balanced view. It was a vain task, for literally everybody said he was simply the most charming and loveable man they had ever met.

Installing Solar Panels by Jane Lovel

Thursday, 22 December 2011 12:34 The Dulwich Society

I would like to share my views on the benefits of installing solar photovoltaics panels (solar PV) on your roof to reduce your electricity bills and at the same time contribute to the UK’s target to reduce our greenhouse gases by at least 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050 . The likelihood of another harsh winter, of escalating fuel and other household prices makes this an urgent issue for me.

As a scientist and resident of Dulwich of 15 years, I am constantly seeking ways to reduce my energy consumption. I have installed double glazing and insulated my loft and cavity walls. I now want to make solar PV my next long term investment and have applied for a licence from The Dulwich Estate for permission to install them. Solar PV does not depend on bright sunshine and should not be confused with solar thermal panels that heat hot water.

Obituary - Heather Rankine

Thursday, 22 December 2011 12:31 The Dulwich Society

Heather Rankine 1941-2011

Heather Rankine was born into a long established Dulwich family where her father, grandfather and two uncles were all local doctors. The house of her childhood stood in Half Moon Lane and was famous for the ancient and huge elm which grew in the front garden.