Dartford’s postbox vandal repaints the townIn one of the year’s strangest sprees of vandalism, Dartford resident Danny Whiskin turned 37 postboxes into his personal canvas. Between January and March, Whiskin spray-painted the iconic red boxes with a variety of patterns, including Mr Blobby-inspired pink and gold splotches, a cow print design, and even a nod to the famous Cadbury Creme Egg. His antics didn’t stop there—some boxes were repainted multiple times.The 33-year-old’s creative streak, however, wasn’t appreciated by authorities. Whiskin was charged with criminal damage, receiving an 18-month community order and 100 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £2,600 in compensation and a £114 victim surcharge. Despite being on benefits and paying off the fine at just £20 a month, Whiskin’s postbox escapades have left a lasting impression on the Dartford area.
Bromley bus enthusiast rides the SuperloopPublic transport enthusiast Paul Fineman from Bromley turned a mundane mode of transport into a marathon achievement this year by completing the ‘Superloop Challenge.’On March 6, Paul rode every route in London’s new Superloop network in just one day. The feat took him over eight hours, with additional time spent travelling between routes.Paul’s passion for the Superloop didn’t stop at his challenge. He founded a Facebook group, ‘Fans of the Superloop,’ which now boasts over 2,500 members. The group has become a hub for like-minded enthusiasts to share tips, photos, and suggestions for improving TfL’s services. Paul even reached out to the Mayor of London with feedback, further cementing his role as the unofficial ambassador for London’s buses.
Naturist couple embraces body positivityOrpington couple Simon and Helen Berriman have taken their naturist lifestyle to heart, ditching clothes whenever possible and embracing the liberating experience of being naked. Simon has been a naturist since his teenage years, but it wasn’t until the 2020 lockdown that he convinced his wife Helen to join him.Initially opposed to the idea, Helen’s mindset shifted during a reverse life drawing class where clothed models were drawn by naked participants. Now, the pair regularly attend naturist events, holidays, and festivals, hoping to challenge the stereotypes that surround their lifestyle.
Penge’s phallic monument leaves locals in stitchesResidents near Betts Park in Penge were left bemused by the unveiling of a new obelisk designed to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Anerley. Standing at nearly 20ft tall, the sandstone monument was inspired by Cleopatra’s Needle but featured four small spheres at its base—giving it an unfortunate resemblance to male anatomy.Locals have dubbed the structure “the Penge Penis,” with some questioning why funds were allocated to the monument instead of more practical improvements like better benches or signage. Despite the criticism, the monument remains a conversation starter and a somewhat cheeky addition to the historic park.
South east London’s funniest place names For those in need of a chuckle, the peculiar and sometimes cheeky place names across south east London are sure to entertain. From Woolwich’s Ha-Ha Road to Bromley’s infamous Pratt’s Bottom, these names have innocent origins but continue to amuse locals and visitors alike. Highlights include Jackass Lane in Keston, Prickend Pond in Chislehurst, and Bogey Lane in Orpington, proving that even geography can have a sense of humour. Whether it’s the suggestive Kings Butts in Eltham or the straightforward hilarity of Cold Blow Lane in New Cross, these names never fail to get a reaction.