Barking and Dagenham

Once part of Essex, the borough of Barking and Dagenham was formed in 1965. Barking began as a fishing village, and also went on to be known for its victuallers, spar makers, and later its shipping trade and chemical plants; whereas Dagenham is home to the world famous Ford Motor Company, which was producing cars until 1931, but now produces specific parts such as engines and gearboxes.

The River Roding travels through part of Barking and Dagenham, but the main river in the borough is of course the Thames. England’s largest fishing fleet, the Short Blue Fleet, was once based here.

Although the shipping trade is far less prevalent now, the borough enjoys water links with parts of the UK and abroad. Barking and Dagenham also has several stations on the London Underground, but journey times can vary as the less popular stations are often only open at peak hours.

Famous alumni include actor Dudley Moore, and World Cup winning football coach Alf Ramsay.