In the 1970s, Kingston had only 11 listed buildings fewer than any other London borough.

But this indifference to our local architectural heritage, which lost us many unique landmarks, gradually gave way in the following decades, and Kingston can now boast 245 buildings that have been listed for their "special architectural or historic interest".

Two of them are newcomers to the list Penton, a private house at 30 Woodlands Road, Surbiton, and the Royal Oak pub at 90 Coombe Road, New Malden.

Penton is a neo-Tudor building, completed in 1932, and rich in fine timbers, panelling, carving and moulding.

"This is a substantial house, even by Surbiton standards, and was built by Thomas Henry Wilson for himself," states the Government report.

"He is thought to have been an architect, builder and surveyor, and while there is no attributed architect, the quality of the design, materials and craftsmanship is extremely high.

"The house is almost unaltered, retaining original surfaces and materials. All the principal rooms survive with high-quality joinery, plasterwork and fireplaces, and every attention to detail is considered."

The Royal Oak opened as a hotel and public house in the 1880s, and still retains most of its fine original features intact.

Both buildings have been newly listed after approaches to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) by private individuals.

"Their applications often succeed where ours fail," said a Kingston Council conservation officer, "and I would urge anyone who feels strongly about a local building or landmark, especially if it's under threat, to write to the DCMS setting out reasons that might qualify it for listing."

The address for such letters is Department of Culture, Media & Sport (Listing Section), 2/4 Cockspur Street, London SW1 5D.

jsampson@london.newsquest.co.uk