Dear Editor,
How times change.

 As we approach Charles Dickens' bicentenary next week on the 7th February, local historian Eamonn Rooney drew my attention to the following in a local newspaper of 12 June 1897 where then sketch writer, 'Felix' notes in his 'About the neighbourhood' column.

"This week has seen the anniversary of Charles Dickens's death (27th). As a matter of interest to many, I may state that the great novelist once gave a reading in Folkestone (Oct 5 1855) of the 'Christmas Carol'. This great event took place in a building (now demolished) on the site of the present corporation yard. (2012-Health Centre, Dover Rd).

"Needless to state the audience of 500 was spellbound by Dickens' masterly pourtrayal of his creative genius. Only the other day I came across an old Folkestone paper, and the following appeared under the visitor list of the week: 'C. Dickens,Esq; 3 Albion Villas'.

"The author of the Pickwick Papers has immortalized Folkestone in picturesque language, and it was my pleasure to give this to the world a few weeks ago. I was talking to an old Folkestonian the other day, and Dickens' connection with Folkestone formed the gist of our conversation.

"Said my friend: "Ah! I see Wilkie Collins and Dickens walking arm in arm through the streets of Folkestone. It seems but yesterday".....

So that was 1897, but what has been done to mark the 'great novelists' bicentenary locally on this great national occasion? Absolutely nothing it seems.

Despite a few events at last years Book Festival, and valiant efforts by some since then including maybe some walks, Folkestone: which as shown above has many a strong link to a writer many regard as our finest after Shakespeare; has arranged no readings, talks, films or major events to mark the anniversary locally whereas most others with a Dickens connection, even tenuous ones, are doing something.

It's not surprising though, since Shepway Council sacked its excellent Arts Officer last year and appears in my view to consist of some of the 'darker' Dickensian like characters such as Messrs, Scrooge, Gradgrind, Uriah Heep, Fagin, unreformed Magwich, Micawber and Squeers etc; along with several Mrs McStinger's and a few scheming Miss Havisham's to boot.

A Council which also seems, to paraphrase the song: " Has to price a parking lot or two", whilst Artfully Dodging from one mess to another.

However it may be that the 2012 World Shakespeare Festival has reached the council chamber as I'm sure I heard Cllr Bliss maundering, over the parking fiasco revolt: "Et tu Bunting!".....

Yours sincerely

Ray Duff

© Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2012