A Heritage Centre will be opened in Westgate to teach people about its history as "a London estate by the sea'. Dawn Crouch is setting up displays at the back of St Saviours Church detailing Westgate and Westbrook's past. It is hoped workshops will be run to help residents trace their ancestors. Historian Dr Crouch, who wrote a thesis on the area said Westgate was created 1050 years ago as a giant holiday home for the landed gentry. Exhibitions will be housed in the space by moving some pews in the church. There will be a potted history of Westgate, old photographs and text. Dr Crouch said "There is a display on Westgate and Westbrook in the 1920's to celebrate the Queen's Birthday. It was an important decade for both places. "In mid June we hope to have a display connected with the Battle of the Somme. "A Number of Westgate men died in the Somme, some on the first day. This year is experimental year but it is hoped the centre will be well established by 2006. The exhibition aimed at residents and tourists, and will be open three days a week. A series of open sessions are planned to enable people to begin researching their family histories" Dr Crouch also said it is important to recognise Westgate's past and said 'Its different from anywhere else and comparatively young at 150 years. -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.392 / Virus Database: 268.5.6/338 - Release Date: 5/12/06