South London's tinkerers, makers and ratchetsmiths have a new place to nurture their ideas. The Invention Centre, a hub of support for 'research, prototyping, patents and design' is due to begin operations in South Norwood in late May, just as the Overground line opens nearby. Entrepreneur Barry Slayford, chairman of Croydon Round Table of Inventors, is behind the initiative, which will launch with an exhibition of inventions. A quick squiz at a list of famous Croydonites suggests innovation in spades. The borough's creatives include the co-developer of evolutionary theory, the architect of that sail-like hotel in Dubai, and the inventor of the teleprinter. The Invention Centre will be sited on Station Road, on the spot where another local inventor, William Stanley, had workshops. Any would-be Wallace and Gromits should check out our map of London inventions for more inspiration.
