“Remember this day,” they said. On 14th March 1945, a V2 rocket struck Hextable. Today, we stand before a symbol of remembrance. This Hextable Heritage Society Blue plaque marks a tragic event. It serves as a reminder of resilience.
This plaque isn’t just metal. It represents a community’s strength. The Hextable Heritage Society placed it here. It commemorates the 75th anniversary of the V2 rocket landing. The rocket tragically killed 10 civilians. It destroyed buildings on Main Road. This area is now occupied by shops built in the 50s.
Before us stands a testament to Hextable’s history. The Hextable Parish Council partnered with the Hextable Heritage Society and St Paul’s Church to mark the anniversary. Together, they unveiled Hextable’s first blue plaque. They also dedicated a new open space. It is now known as Hextable Memorial Garden.
Imagine the scene on that day. The community gathered. They assembled at St Peters church. They shared tea and coffee. Civic guests and family members who remembered the event were present. Cllr Darren Kitchener, Chairman of Hextable Parish Council, welcomed everyone. The plaque unveiling took place at the parade of shops. A short dedication ceremony followed. This took place at the Broomhill Bank school field.
The Hextable Heritage Society has unveiled a second blue plaque since then. On 1st April 2023, the Society’s second blue plaque was unveiled. It stands at the site of the house. Sharon Mitchell’s husband, Graham, and daughter, Katie, did the honors. Darren Kitchener gave an introduction. Graham delivered a speech. Avril Hunter, chairman of Sevenoaks District Council, and Peter Fleming, leader of Sevenoaks District Council, attended the ceremony.
The Hextable Heritage Society continues its work. Audrey Rainer became chairman in May 2001. The society was formed just a few months before in 2000. During her time, Audrey completed many projects. She helped compile the DVD video record ‘Hextable – A Growing Village’. She also wrote a pamphlet outlining key points in the village’s history. In 2010, she stepped down as chairman. She remained on the committee until May 2015. At the AGM, she was made Life President of the Society. This position had been vacant since the death of Geoff Blaxall.
Let us observe a moment of silence. Reflect on the lives lost. Acknowledge the community’s spirit. This Hextable Heritage Society Blue plaque stands as a symbol. It represents remembrance. It signifies the enduring power of unity. It marks Hextable’s history for generations to come.