Finding ancestors and distant relatives can be easier with the help of groups like the North West Kent Family History Society, according to Bexley's mayor Cllr Eileen Pallen.

During a visit to the society's library and resource centre at 80 Summerhouse Drive, Joyden's Wood, Cllr Pallen said family history societies had a big advantage over the internet in that they enabled the sharing of ideas and encouraged a sense of community.

She hoped family history organisations would flourish and continue to add another dimension to the use of local libraries.

NWKFHS chairman Tony Codling showed the mayor around the library where she saw many activities relating to genealogical research taking place.

A family history beginners' workshop was in full swing, as well as a writing group, whilst other members were conducting their own research with the help of the library resources.

NWKFHS holds monthly meetings with speakers in venues in Bromley, Dartford and Sevenoaks. To find out more about the society and how it can help you with your research, visit www.nwkfhs.org.uk, or Facebook page, or call Janet on 01322 384836.

Article submitted by Stella Eames