Editorial
This issue of Thames Ditton Today marks the completion of my first seasonal cycle as its editor. Founded by F. G. Thomas, Thames Ditton Today's inaugural front cover in 1970 depicts Father Thames rising from the waters, wildly coiffed and bearded, embracing two plump, bare-breasted maidens, Mole and Ember, festooned with reeds bearing alarms about shopping precincts, developers, by-passes, pollution and indifference. The magazine has come a long way but its essential purpose remains as stated in the first issue: a platform for the Residents' Association and a means of contact with residents. But it is more than a mouthpiece. Its founder was insistent that the magazine "should not be run by a committee and that the Editor should have responsibility for its contents." Because of this, Thames Ditton Today has also become an archival resource of news, history, stories, and a record of activities, trades and personalities. A reflection of where we live and who lives here.
As any new boy would do, I have read all the back numbers from 1970 and have asked many residents what they like, or not, about TD Today. The magazine is well loved. Readers like the local news pages as well as the features. They also retain the magazine as well as reading it - often in the loo. I am amazed how many full sets from 1970 seem to be kept in these villages.
Radical change is not necessary, nor desired. Over the past year there has, however, been some gradual evolution. We now have colour in the four-page centrefold. Selling one of those pages, we can add a few more in black and white, that along with the regular content - all of which is valued - can accommodate a couple more stories. So now I want more contributors! If you have ideas for a feature, or if you'd like to try researching and writing on one of my own ideas, please get in touch. It's interesting and fun.
In particular, I'd like local historians to volunteer. TD Today has carried many very good articles on local history, and while mindful that the magazine's overall content should live up to the 'Today' part of its title, I should welcome new pieces with historical insight and I have a couple of ideas for projects should capable historians wish to take them on. Good photographs are also most welcome, in high resolutions suitable for print, colour or black-and-white. Scans of old photographs in good order are much prized.
Some contributions may also be aired on our web site, where space is less of a consideration. Timing is more immediate than in Thames Ditton Today, where with all contributions, whether about businesses, individuals, places or opinions, the editor has to take tough decisions based on quality, genuine local interest, community merit, and the balance of content within the limited space in each issue. The Red Pencil may have to be deployed. But I am not averse to publishing controversial views, tastefully and legally expressed. You have the 'Hook or Crook' page as a potential forum.
Just as the Residents' Association is your association, so this is your magazine.
Keith Evetts