ON October 14 1711, Alexander Selkirk sailed into Erith after being marooned on a deserted island off the coast of Chile for four years.

His experiences became the inspiration for Daniel Defoe’s classic story Robinson Crusoe.

Now Erith is hoping to stage a celebration of the 300th anniversary of the event on October 15.

Spearheaded by Erith Town Forum it is hoped to stage a re-enactment of the landing and link it to a weekend of celebrations as well as a series of school and community-based events and projects throughout the year.

Local groups, including rowing and sailing clubs, theatres, museums, history societies and others will be invited to join in.

There are also plans for special events in roads with related names such as Friday and Crusoe Roads.

The group is also looking for commercial sponsors.