HISTORIC MEETING: The next meeting of the Greenwich Historical Society will include an in-depth look at the shipwrights and shopkeepers of Deptford. English Heritage's Peter Guillery will talk about a recent survey of 17th and 18th century properties in and around Deptford High Street. From 7.15pm at Blackheath High School, in Vanbrugh Park Road.

LIGHTS ON: The Christmas lights in Eltham Town centre will be switched on amid a festival of colour, fire and light. Eltham Lights Up with a community lantern parade, carnival characters and firework display, on November 22. Flipping the switch is Mayor of Greenwich Councillor Terry Malone at 6.30pm.

AYE, AYE SANTA: Father Christmas will be taking over at the helm of the Cutty Sark in December. The famous clipper will be festively decorated to welcome Santa and his visitors. The Captain's Saloon will be used as a grotto where children can visit him and make their Christmas wishes. From 10am to 5pm, on December 8 and 9.

BELLY DANCING : Learn a new groove for Christmas with a belly dancing workshop. Run by Maria Louisa, who has appeared on TV, the two-hour fun workshops are for women only. From 10.30am on November 17 and December 1 at the Albany Theatre, in Douglas Way, Deptford.

November 13, 2001 13:09