Is it possible to swim from Purley to Calais? A group of local swimmers are going to have a good try. (Click here for more details)

Sale of the Century?
The 25th Purley (St Mark’s) Scout Group is holding what says is THE jumble sale of the year on Saturday 4 February. It takes place at St. Mark’s Church Hall, Church Road, Purley CR8 3QQ from 1pm – 4pm
Anything saleable including unwanted gifts, Clothing, Nearly new, Brick-a-brac, Toys, Books, DVD’s, Shoes gratefully accepted and you are very welcome to bring donations to St. Mark's Church Hall on Friday 3 February from 6pm onwards or Saturday 4 February from 9am to 12 noon using our drive through service – they are very happy to unload for you.
If you are unable to bring your jumble yourself, a collection service is available on Friday evening or Saturday morning call Mrs Harland on 020 8669 8711 or Mrs King on 020 8647 6607 . Calls can also be taken on 07729 384566
Help from friends and supporters is always much appreciated on the Friday evening from 6pm onwards and Saturday morning from 8.00am to 12 noon for final preparations; 1pm to 4pm selling and from 4pm clearing up.


Crime alert 1 - cashtill cloning
Users of cashpoints in Purley are asked to be on their guard after unconfirmed reports that cards are being 'cloned' at some local cashtills. Criminals attach covert devices to cash machines to obtain details of any credit cards fed into the till. The card details are then used to make fraudulent transactions.

Crime alert 2 – bogus antique dealers
A team of bogus antique dealers is active in the Purley area, reports a local resident. They present householders with a leaflet bearing the name T. A. Smith of 15 St James Street, Kemp Town, Sussex and ask to view and photograph antique items in the home; and buy scrap gold. However, their real motive is to 'case' the house and then return later to burgle it. Three white men are involved and use a white, unmarked van that could be a Mercedes. The resident has contacted the Police who have confirmed that the team is suspect.

More Purley News
Missing chef - body found. . .Electric shock. . . . Festival chairman moves on. . . Musicians wanted. . .Scouts save the day. . .Jubilee spirit. . .Out to lunch (Click here for more details)

Stories from previous issues