Deceptive Bends – a population with a broad spectrum –

4 – 1900 - 1980

​

By the 1930s, Dorking had become known for its antiques trade, particularly along West Street, drawing dealers and collectors along this well-worn route to and from London.

​

During the Second World War, the valley again became strategic ground, used for the storage of troops and equipment in preparation for D-Day.

Temporary infrastructure, including the Bailey bridge built by Canadian forces across the Mole at the bottom of Young Street, supported this effort.

​

Around the same era, modern transport reshaped the landscape. The A24 between Leatherhead and Dorking—one of Britain’s early dual carriageways—followed the curves of the Mole.

The River Mole's sweeping bends became a favourite for motorcyclists, prompting the now-familiar warning signs: “Deceptive Bends.”

​

The phrase would later echo in popular culture when 10cc recorded their 1977 album Deceptive Bends at Strawberry Studios South in Dorking.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​