A WHALE measuring a whopping 40 feet was caught in the Thames in 1718, according to a new book compiled by Gravesend Library.

The 96-page Chronology of Gravesend, which has taken two years to research, traces Gravesend's history from Roman times to 2000.

Reference librarian Zoe Gray led the research. She said: "There is so much history in Gravesend. Readers may be surprised by what they find out."

The book costs £6.99 from Gravesend's libraries and Towncentric visitor centre in St George's Square.

Do you have any interesting or quirky facts about Gravesend? Call Emma Coutts-Wood on 01689 885728 or e-mail ecoutts-wood@

london.newsquest.co.uk.

December 21, 2001 16:00