A chance visit to Barking in Essex lead to the discovery of an unexpected example of 'grand' civic architecture in the Town Hall with imposing tower and classical detailing. Designed in 1936 by Jackson & Edmonds but not built until 1954-8. Intend to return with the camera to take some photos ASAP.
Another surprise was that Barking had an Abbey founded c666 by St. Erkenwald, not much left to see now but the parish church in the Abbey grounds appears to use some recycled stone and the Gatehouse has survived.
