Appreciating, protecting and sharing the local history, heritage and culture of Tooting, are the aims of a history group looking to attract new members.

The Tooting Local History Group, (TLHG) was founded in 1977 by the late Councillor Frank Staff - a Polish immigrant, Conservative Councillor and Mayor of Wandsworth - and, following faltering interest, is being revived by residents, Councillor Rex Osborn, Dale Ingram and John Rattray.

Coun Osborn said: “I have this feeling that much of Tooting is coming down. It is important to recall and record as much as we can about Tooting It has got a good story to tell.

“The group wants to give people a sense of place. It helps people develop a loyalty and respect for where they live and to support the local community.”

As well as regular history talks, members will be notified of, and encouraged to comment on, a variety of issues relating to the historic environment, including the listing of local landmarks and alterations to buildings of special architectural or historic merit.

Whether it is the scandal at a children’s asylum, which implored author Charles Dickens to fight for greater rights for children, the life and homes of famous politicians and gentry or its great cinematic heritage, there is something about Tooting’s past that will appeal to everyone, Coun Osborn said.

“The ultimate dream is to make Tooting the tourist destination it once was before the railways,” said Coun Osborn. “Before the advent of the railways Tooting was a tourist destination because you could get here and back to central London in a day.”

There is no subscription fee. To join. simply contact the membership secretary Dale Ingram on 020 8672 7877 or write to 207 Massingberd Way, tooting SW17 6AR.

You can also follow the group on Facebook or by emailing tootinghistory@googlemail.com.