James Gray: The pond and farm cottages were favourite subjects for pre-1914 photographers. jgc_33_037
2020: The village pond has probably existed from the foundation of the village in Anglo-Saxon times until the 1930s. At that time a mains water pipe was laid down Ovingdean Road and through the pond, breaking the clay seal and causing the pond to dry out. (Photographer: Ron Fitton)
James Gray: One of three photographs [jgc_33_038, 039 and 040] which almost certainly date from the 1920s. jgc_33_038
2020: No firm evidence exists of when Ovingdean Grange was first built although it may originally have been constructed as a farmhouse in the 16th century. After many changes the house was eventually used as a family home in the 1900s. From 1945 the Grange was occupied by the former Mayor of Brighton and local farmer Frank Masefield Baker. After falling into disrepair, Brighton Council finally auctioned it off in 1987.
James Gray: One of three photographs which almost certainly date from the 1920s. jgc_33_039
2020: See caption for jgc_33_037 above. The buildings opposite the pond were called Pear Tree Cottages and were demolished around 1934 to make it easier for vehicles to access Ovingdean Road. Two semi-detached council houses, designed for the use of farm workers, were constructed on the site and designated Nos 7 and 8 Greenways Corner. (Photographer: Ron Fitton)
James Gray: No comment. jgc_33_043
2020: The site of the former village pond today. (Photographer: Ron Fitton)
James Gray: Building of the new St Dunstans, on the hill above Greenways, Ovingdean, in progress during 1936. jgc_33_044
James Gray: The finished building a few months later. jgc_33_045
2020: Founded in 1915 by Sir Arthur Pearson, St Dunstan’s (now know as Blind Veterans UK) provides services and support for ex-servicemen and women experiencing sight loss. The charity built Fraser House in 1937-39 to an International Modern design by Francis Lorne, with the foundation stone laid by Lady Pearson in September 1937. The seven-storey building, with a glass bow and square tower, was modernised in 1974-75 and had a new south wing inaugurated in April 1975. (Photographer: Ron Fitton)