Thursday 23rd February, 1961

On 23rd Feb 202125th Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Leonard to the family:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Another nice long newsy letter on hand on Tuesday for which many thanks. Also thank you Susan for the lovely drawing you sent us. Glad to hear you are all keeping well – we are both feeling very much better and practically back to normal now. The weather seems to be improving – no rain for a week – and that helps considerably. Quite a lot of illness of one sort or another still about in the district and I see in parts of the country including London diphtheria is on the increase again. I had this when about eight or ten years of age and had six weeks in an Isolation Hospital at Swindon and at that time no visitors were allowed on the premises. Not a nice thing to get hold of and in those days there were no such things as injections for immunisation.

Note you have had some fog up there – we have had just a taste but nothing to worry about. Last Sunday it was lovely here but when going over the hill in the morning with Aston could see fog in the Channel coming shorewards and before long the whole of the hill and along the Front was enveloped in fog. This lasted for upwards of an hour then sun broke through and it was really lovely.

Yes I remember you visiting Hinksey & Yarnton years ago but did not know you used to meet the Birmingham & Worcester people at Oxford for checking the service books – nice day out.

You are really up against it with your staff problem – presumably the ‘powers that be’ are aware of the position and are doing what they can to expedite matters. Note your meetings with the Kensington and Acton Yard L.D.C. – who is Yardmaster at Acton now? I take it Snow is still in Reading?

Geoff wrote the other day and said he was now getting two Saturdays off in three so when I replied I told him of my experience at Martock. Twelve hour days to start with and no half day. On Saturdays we were always cleared up in the Goods Yard by 2.0 p.m. but the S/M would not allow us to leave the premises until our booked time of 5.30 p.m. so on fine Saturdays two or three of us would walk the line to Montacute (2½ miles) and have a chat with S/M there getting back to Martock in time to go home at 5.30 p.m. Then I had to cycle 5½ miles to Long Sutton. Some difference now-a-days. Salary incidentally in those days was £20 per annum.*

I went down to the station here on Tuesday to pay for some coal and the booking clerk was wearing what could better be described as a coal heaver’s jacket and it was about as dirty. Years ago he would have been sent home. He was a scruffy looking individual altogether. They are still a clerk short of establishment and have been continuously for several years – the S/M doing the overtime because the above mentioned individual won’t stop.

Have not done anything about the parsnip wine yet but it seems you had varied results by your efforts – assume none on hand now. The Bravery recipes provide for additional fruits to be mixed with the brew. Note you may try to get some cider jars. The one I got from Elford was a vinegar container – glass with two handles – hold about one gallon & very similar in shape and appearance to the one we bought at Loftus a couple of years ago. Will see if I can get another.

Yes by the sound of it Susan is ready for school and apparently looking forward to it. Here again it is different to years ago when quite a lot of children had to be dragged there.

Carol quite nippy on her feet then – pity she still gets a bit sick in the car.

The only thing I’m doing regarding petrol is to call at the garage occasionally and have a couple of gallons put in whether I actually want it or not.** Formerly I only called when I actually needed it and as mentioned previously we have not been out recently except for local trips to library & shops. By this time I expect you have got certificates for your car.

Yes Hamblins were next to Miss Ackerman’s shop and they have been there since the premises were built.

Already there is quite a bit of activity going on in Roselands redecorating etc.

Can understand your ground being soaking wet and unworkable at the moment – mine is bad enough but it is in better condition than yours.

You had a surprise then when you arrived at West Drayton to find other visitors there. Not surprised to hear roads busy – am told Clevedon was as full of cars as on a Bank Holiday and TV and Press commented on the jam of cars on the Mendips in the evening all heading for Bristol.***

Have read some of the evidence at the inquiry into the Baschurch incident which shows up one or two of those concerned in a very bad light. Have they found out yet who ran away with the engine from Wolverhampton Loco?****

Am pressing on with the garden and to date have weeded and dug over about half of the plot of ground next to Heels. It is a most tedious job as the weeds have such long and bushy roots in soil that is something like a wet pudding mixture. However little by little does it and when I’ve had enough of that for one day can always start on something else. In the frames I’ve sown Carrots Beetroot Lettuce Leeks Cauliflower etc. and in greenhouse Brussel Sprouts. [sic] Also taken more Chrysanth cuttings and Mum has put the begonia tubers in peat to get them started. The shallots put in on Feby 7th are not showing any green yet but am expecting to see it any day now. Today I cut off a lot of runners (rooted) from the new strawberry plants and made another row of them (about 25).

Roy Hewett looks in about once per week – (am evidently one of those to get a regular visit) for a chat on this and that. He cannot do much himself but likes to go round & see what is being done elsewhere. The Astons have not got over the flu and back to normal again. Bells people not yet arrived to do the rewiring but we are not worrying about that. Will leave mum to comment on your remarks re pantomime.

No further news of the Triangle Post Office robbery. Am told Rees Barrett is working as a labourer on the sea wall at the back of our place. I don’t think I would know him now if I saw him.

You ask about the front gates. Frankly I don’t quite know what happened as the upright wooden posts (on which gates swing) are secured to the brick work by an iron rod running right through them and yet the time came when the gates would not close properly. I took gates off and unscrewed the lugs from the wooden posts and chiselled out some of the wood – reset lugs and rehung gates. Much better again now – at least they can be closed & fastened properly.

Just been back through your letter again to make sure I’ve missed nothing. Am afraid my efforts do not reach your standard now-a-days as you have so much to tell us which is interesting whereas the home and garden is our main concern here. Anyhow I think this is all once more.

All our love to you both and lots of kisses for dear little Susan & Carol.

Mum & Dad

[*Leonard started with the GWR in about 1912, and £20 in those days would be round about £2,375 in 2021.]

[**I must admit this has me baffled as Leonard & Eva were not hurting for money, but this seems like a means of spreading the cost of the petrol. It’s a bit odd, though; the petrol would presumably cost the same whenever they bought it, and they could just as easily have set the money aside in advance and then bought everything they needed at the same time.]

[***This was of course before the advent of the M5, which may have been planned and possibly even started at this stage, but the first sections of which were not opened until the following year.]

[****I have been unable to trace any further information on this incident, but some more information appears in Alec’s reply on 26th February 1961.]

Letter from Eva to the family on the remaining two-thirds of Leonard’s sheet of paper:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Many thanks for the letter & Susan’s drawing. A study in Black & White this time. I couldn’t make out what the drawing above the girls was. We think it must be a room in a house as there are steps up to it. I see checks are being worn this Spring.

You need a new ribbon for your typewriter can hardly read some words.

Mrs Salway who lived with Miss Weeks for a number of years was buried last Saturday at Chew Stoke.

Dad & I have made a start on the garden but the ground is still like pudding.

Yes it is Trill we are going to see & Caperns keep a number of budgerigars out there. Perhaps we shall be given a packet of bird seed & tea besides I hope.

It has been a lot colder here the last few days hope it will soon pass.

The picnickers started last weekend to fill up the Quarry at bottom of Avenue, it was almost like a bank holiday here.

To date I have Cinerarias, Cyclamen, Hyacinth, Primulas & Scillas flowering indoors.

Mogg has got a new greenhouse one with slanting sides for ring culture tomatoes.

Spencer’s house is being painted white with a blue front door & gates, quite a new style for the Avenue. He hasn’t sold it yet.

No more now lots of love from Mum & Dad.

Sunday 19th February, 1961

On 19th Feb 202119th Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Alec to his parents:

Dear Mum and Dad,

Your newsy letter to hand for which many thanks. Did not see Susan’s effort last week as it was committed or perpetrated after I had written mine – still glad you liked it.*

Very pleased to hear that you are both on the mend. It must be that stuff you got from the chemist with the kick in it. Note that exertion takes it out of you, but you hare all the facilities, and all the time you want to sleep it off. They tell me that the after effects of this flu include tiredness and that washed out feeling. I agree that it is a good idea to have the injections. I am glad I had mine. Have felt all the week as if I had a slight cold but it has not come to anything. We had a bit of fog on a couple of days and it always gives me a head ache. June and the children are both well so 100% again this week. I remember the injections we had from Mcleod, in fact I have related the occurrence including the heavy cold which immediately followed my final injection.

I am surprised you had not been to Oxford by rail. I have been there many times including lodging there. When in the D.O.S.O. Freight Train Section I used to have two meetings per year there with Sandlands and Walter Taylor to check No 13 and No 15 with No 1. I spent some time there during and after the war at Hinksey and Yarnton Yards.

We will certainly have to get more staff quickly, but you can imagine that there will be a terrific time lag before they become effective. If I got some more tomorrow, the first course I could get them on would be some time in March (if not already overbooked) they would then be two weeks in the school, five weeks out on assignment, and a further three weeks back at the school before I would have the use of them. Say sometime in June. At that stage they would still be very green and would take at least another six months before any comprehensive grasp of the subject could be obtained. If there were enough competent in the lower grades they could be pushed up and given more responsibility and so on, but as it is I have only two twos ( until recently paid up threes), and provided they do nothing daft there is nothing to stop them shooting up to Special A in the course of a few months. My only Class One Clerk wants to get out of Work Study and is not an applicant for any of the jobs.

I had one instalment of a chat with McDonald but he is quite determined not to have timekeeping considered as a factor in Station Bonus Schemes. There is a great pit yawning under him on this one but he wants it excluded so that’s that. Have another meeting with Kensington L.D.C. on Monday, and the Acton Yard L.D.C. on Friday.

Note you will be having a go at the Parsnip wine. I have made two brews in the past. The first I boiled the parsnips and did not use Camden tablets, the second I used cold water and added the tablets. The first wine matured into a very nice sweet wine after about 18 months but was cloudy and contained a film of some misty substance, the other wine was as clear as a bell and extremely strong – less sweet and to my mind less acceptable. If I make any more parsnip I think I shall blend something else with it such as a couple of oranges, or a pound of raisins or sultanas. These one fruit brews are good for identifying the taste of particular fruits**, but the taste seldom has the fullness that is obtained from compounds and mixtures unless the fruit is similar in character to the grape – such as Raisins, Sultanas, Damsons, Plums, Elderberries, etc. My January mixture based on Apricot is still just ticking over and I am anxious to get it out of the jar to make way for the February brew based on Dates. I have a mind to go down to the Off Licence and see if I can get some of those older jars. All that is wanted is the bored cork, and can easily get them by post.

It will be a little while before we know if Susan can be accepted at the school, A little nearer the date June will have to take her with her birth certificate and find out, Hope she can be accepted – she is getting to be the giddy limit round here. She is as stubborn as old nick, and you would think she was deaf by the notice she takes of things she is told. It needs school quickly at this stage to change her ideas a bit.*** Fortunately she just loves the idea of school, and in fact Sunday School is one of the week’s bright spots for her. She narrowly missed being kept home this week but that is another story.

You remark about Carol not being too secure on her pins when last seen. I remember, but she is no toddler now. She can get on and off the swing by herself and trots in and out with plates, cups etc before and after meals. She will lay a table after a fashion, and drags piano stool into kitchen to help wipe up.

We went to Wembley on Saturday in car but again did not see lampshades, There were lots of people about, and we were unlucky with some purchases we set out to make that we did not spend much time there. Of course needless to say Carol was S —— on the way back. [sic!] We went to Eastcote in the afternoon for a couple of items and as we went via Whitby Rd we were able to get all groceries etc for week.

What do you do to fill up car with petrol that is different to normal? Do you got two gallons where you usually have one until tank is full? I have not yet got a certificate for car but have arranged for Jackson to take it and get one. I saw him about five weeks ago and told him I wanted the dashboard lights fixed, and asked about some other items, but clean forgot the most important item. Waited for him to come over by he did not, Last Monday night I saw him and he said he would be over the following night to do the lights but again I still have not seen him. On Monday last I told him about the test and he has a garage handy with a man who tests cars for his clients who will do mine. I am getting a little annoyed at his delay, and shall probably not bother with him after this unless he wakes up.

I remember Hamblins the Hairdressers did they have the shop next to Miss Ackerman ( from the village) ? or did they take over her shop? Note you have done some serious gardening. I cleared a pile of wood off the patch at the bottom to-day hoping to give it a dig over, but all was soaking wet so I pruned some roses and transferred one and a couple of lavender bushes, Hope they live, the bits and pieces went on the spot where the wood came from so I am as badly off as when I started. Gave the car a bit of a clean and that was the morning gone.

We went over to West Drayton this afternoon after Sunday School and found Delph and Roy there with Christopher. There was quite some activity on the Western Avenue both going and returning, but it is not surprising as the weather, was glorious.

Fancy Mum going to see Jessie Matthews, Should have been the other way round.

Yes the Country Lifes have been passed on to others and we are in a position to accept some more of like journals.

We do seem to be getting too many accidents lately. That one at Baschurch wants looking into I should think.****

You do not surprise me when you report that Goods Guards are being recruited from the Exchanges. I can see their dodge all right. Our difficulty is persuading the long service men like guards that Station staff on bonus will only be getting more money than they are until we can get round to Work Studying them. They are concerned that youngsters with negligible service will get more than them. It is more than a possibility, but without staff to cover every job at once what can you do. Of course the helpful situation at Oxford is that the Oxford L.D.G. is Chaired by a Passenger Guard, Secretary Goods Guard, and includes a Signalman and a Train Announcer.

Note the journey to the Play (Pantomime ) had a false start. As return trip was made to Herbert Rd and Fearnville Estate, and not Tennyson Avenue, I suppose you do not share in the blame? Note also that you will visit Caperns on the 22nd March so that by the time you get here you will be Bouncing with health. (Or is that Trill?)*****

What could have gone wrong with your gate? I thought it was iron?

Old Rees Barrett still a bit loose in the head then? A pity – his was a fairly good family I believe.

Well that’s the epistle again for this week. Notice it is light till gone 5-0pm here now so we shall look forward to a short time perhaps in the garden in the evenings soon. Love from us all for now.

[*Naturally no child would ever do anything worthy of his notice; the dismissive prose says so much.]

[**I wonder if he has noticed that a parsnip is in fact a vegetable, rather than a fruit?]

[***Yup, school is a convenient dumping-ground for those one is not prepared to parent adequately. School will ‘knock it out of them’ – and if not you can always start hitting them. June’s resentment at not being able to push this troublesome chick out of the nest and concentrate on having fun with her ‘good baby’ is clear in every line of this discussion. Of course that sort of thing doesn’t mark a kid for life, either, and they clearly wouldn’t still be hurt by it sixty years afterwards.]

[****The conclusion seems to have been that the signalman accepted a passenger express when a goods train, which had been partially shunted aside to allow it to pass, had not fully cleared the line. See https://www.railwaysarchive.co.uk/docsummary.php?docID=1044 for more information.]

[*****Yes. ‘Trill makes budgies bounce with health’.]

Wednesday 15th February, 1961

On 15th Feb 202118th Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Leonard to the family:

Many thanks for letter received on Tuesday and another good effort by Susan – thank you very much Susan your drawings are improving wonderfully.*

Am glad to say we are both feeling very much better but a little exertion seems to take it out of us still – this will wear off in due course.

What a good idea to have the flu vaccine injections – private firms have been doing this for several years. Hope it works out alright and that it can be done annually. Do you remember some years ago we went to Dr Geo Mcleod for some injections and at that time three injections were necessary at monthly periods. Did not bother after the first year but if such injections are proof against flu then we must think about it next Autumn.

Note you have been busy with various meetings including one at Oxford – a place I’ve never been to by train although we had a choir outing there by road a long time ago. Sounds as if you are all going to have plenty of work to get on with. No wonder you want additional staff.

Have not heard from Norman. He will call up on phone if & when he has any news. There must be hundreds of applicants for Work Study posts and presumably all those successful must have a period at the school otherwise it would be most difficult for them to undertake the outside work. Have you had your chat with McDonald yet about things? and found out who is doing what etc.?

You still find a bit of time for winemaking then? I’ve nothing brewing up at the moment but am thinking of making some Parsnip Wine. Recently dug up the remainder of the parsnips and they are drying off in garage at the moment – about 4 or 5 lbs I should think, just enough for a brew.

Is there any more news of Susan’s possible start at school after Easter or have you still to wait for information? Is Susan excited at the prospect? We shall see a big difference in both of them – it will be about nine months since we last saw them and they can alter quite a lot in that time. Last June when you were here Carol was not too sure on her feet but I expect she is all over the place now. Susan will have grown too. They are both still fond of their prams then** – something to show us when we come up.

How nice for Pauline & Eileen to be with you last weekend. I’m sure Susan & Carol were pleased.

Had a line from Geoff last week to say you had all been over to Headstone Lane and that the children had had a good time. Note you visited Harrow last weekend but no lampshades on view. We have not been out in car except for local trips to library and Hill Road. Am gradually filling up with petrol for the journey and shall put car in for ‘short servicing’ in early March. Have you got certificate of roadworthiness for yours yet? I see the very old ones are now liable to prosecution if not in possession of certificate.

The current name of the hairdresser who bought Roselands is Hamblin and not Hamilton – my mistake. Hamblin has had a ladies hairdressing business at Six Ways (near Babyland) ever since that block of shops were erected and is noted for buying old property – renovating it – and then reselling. I don’t know if the other man – Hamilton – is still in Knowles Rd or not.

Someone was looming at Spencers’ house in this avenue last Sunday – understand Spencer starts his new job in Southampton on March 1st. At the moment he is busy painting the outside woodwork – windows, doors etc. – presumably to get a better price for it. Should think it’s a bit late in the day for that.

Those people in Cranley Gardens seem to be in it right up to their necks – the place was well organised. It would be very interesting to know who first put the police on to them.***

Have got down to some serious gardening this week. Dug another rough plot across garden and started weeding from the bottom end next to Heels. In the frames I’ve sown Lettuce – Carrot – Beetroot – Leeks and Cauliflower whilst in greenhouse I’ve taken quite a lot of chrysanthemum cuttings. It was a glorious day yesterday and from BBC accounts it was pretty general all over the country. No sun today but dry although very dull. Mum has gone to Townswomen’s Guild meeting this afternoon and is going with them tomorrow to Bristol to the pantomime. I shall be keeping the home fires burning or perhaps one in the garden – nearly time I started another.

Note you had a trip to Pinner Park on Sunday but that it was not too pleasant – not very nice here either. I went ringing morning and evening but we did not feel well enough to sit in church – still a bit of cough at times.

Have you disposed of all the Country Lifes we brought up last year? Hope so for we have another lot for you. Joan tells us that commencing last January she has changed to the ‘Field’ a somewhat similar publication to the Country Life but we shall still be having them as usual (i.e. the Field).

Quite a lot of train mishaps lately – what is the matter? Some of them appear to be carelessness from the brief particulars given in the Press but it is just as well to wait for the official verdicts. The fact remains however there are too many accidents occurring now-a-days****. Don in his last letter said he had heard that they are taking men from the Labour Exchange at Exeter and training them as goods guards and that when the period of training is over (ten weeks) the men resign and go back to the Labour Exchange having had ten stamps stuck on their card.

Well I think this is the lot once more. Mum must put a few lines before posting to say how much she enjoyed pantomime.

Hope you are all keeping well.

All our love to you both and once again lots of kisses for Susan & Carol.

Mum & Dad

[*Against what standard, I wonder? And is improvement the only reason for making them? I think not. Why wouldn’t one tell a child that age ‘I really liked your drawing’ or ‘Your drawing made me smile’? Continually measuring any child against some imaginary yardstick must surely lead to disappointment on both sides – especially for the child who can never quite be ‘good enough’ for the adults in their life.]

[**Having owned the things for only about seven weeks at this stage this may not be too surprising.]

[***The simple answer to this question is ‘the CIA’, who had tipped off MI5 about the activities of a man known as ‘Gordon Lonsdale’ but who was in fact a Soviet agent by the name of Konon Molody. Permission was obtained to investigate the contents of a safe deposit box in ‘Lonsdale’s name, and spy paraphernalia was discovered. From then on he was under intense scrutiny until he was arrested on 7 January, 1961, and so was everyone he came into contact with.]

[****This was certainly a bad spell; Wikipedia lists three accidents very close together at this time – at Royton in Lancashire on 8 February, where the accident was followed by a fire which destroyed two houses; near Rugby on 11 February, when a driver was killed; and at Baschurch in Shropshire on 13 February, when three railwaymen were killed. Further crashes took place on 20 March at Canon Street, London; 11 April at Waterloo; 18 April at Pitsea in Essex; and on 16 July at Weeton in Lancashire, leaving a total of twelve people dead and at least 142 injured.]

Letter from Eva on the remaining two-thirds of Leonard’s sheet of writing paper:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Many thanks for letter also Susan’s drawing. I expect she will be an artist later on.

Well we went to the Pantomime in King St. We had nearly left Clevedon when two members found they hadn’t got their tickets so back to Herbert Rd, & also Fearnville. We eventually arrived at the Theatre Royal* 2.15 p.m. & it commenced 2.30. This is not a very big theatre I was surprised. Jessie Matthews was the principal actress. She must be sixty if she is a day by now*. I remember her better in the films. We got home about 6.30 p.m. On the 22nd we hope to go to Capern’s Seed place at Yatton.

Dad has been busy putting the gate right today.

The Triangle Post Office was raided this week £500 stolen. Somebody said Mick Rees Barratt went off & left the door open. He works as a labourer somewhere not being fit for other work.

The Hamilton who used to live in Knowles Rd lived with a Mrs Middleton who had a number of children. Don’t know if he lives there now.

There was Ronnie & Reggie Hoy one of them died I think it was Ronnie, the other is a clergyman.

I have bought some paint to do the bathroom don’t know when it will be started all depends when the electricians do their job.

This is about all for the week. Lots of love from

Mum & Dad

[*Now known as the Bristol Old Vic and recently given a massive face-lift. (Mutter mutter, monstrous carbuncle…)]

[*A little unfair; she was fifty-four.]

Sunday 12th February, 1961

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Alec to his parents:

Dear Mum and Dad,

Thank you both for latest letter, glad to hear, you are both much better although not quite fully restored yet. Yes so far thank goodness we have all escaped the flu, and generally the epidemic seems to have been rather scattered in these parts. A list was sent round for key? staff to apply for flu vaccine injections. I had mine on Friday morning and can still feel tenderness in the arm. The vaccine is supposed to take full effect from two weeks after it has been given and to last for a year. If this can be given every year and it works, shall have to keep it going. There is some immunity degree even from the start, but there is still the risk of getting flu within the first fortnight.

I do not suppose you felt much like wine tasting recently however restful an occupation it is. Nevertheless I expect you are now feeling more able to cope. My Apricot/Celery mixture is in the last stages of fermentation and I have another concoction ready to take its place in the fermentation Jar. The latest is based on a packet of dates that got loft over from Xmas together with two old grapefruit and two old but very juicy and sweet oranges. One wizened apple also wont into the brew. There is upwards of half a gallon ticking over nicely. Have the remains of the last gallon of apricot which I shall try to keep for your approval next month.

Yes again we think the Field End School is quite modern and it certainly looks to be up to date from the inside as well as outside.

So far as meetings go, Mr Lay managed to stay away all last week so that we dropped in nicely for those arranged for last week. McDonald came back on the Monday still looking the worse for wear, but managed to last out. No more have gone down with it.

I noted the Class One vacancies. my strength is to be six each of “A”s Ones, and Twos, and as I have only two “A”s One One, and Two Twos at the moment directly attached (as distinct from those on loan) I shall certainly get some of this crop of twenty-five. The position changes rapidly from day to day however. For example, London (and now Bristol) are asking for a much larger establishment still, some vacancies will be filled from within the organisation which includes research men, and some will leave before even the initial posts have been filled. Where we shall be getting the staff from I cannot think. There are now hundreds of applications to come in – everybody now wants to jump on the wagon. They all seem to have forgotten what they had to say about the subject only a couple of years ago.

I am sorry Norman did not get a job. It was only an outside chance of course with his present grading so low. Still, tho fact that they interviewed 30 people is a good omen. It means they are looking around for likely candidates and are not just filling the posts for which the interviews took place. Some of the unlucky 30 will not bother again, some will have get other jobs by the time the next batch of W/S vacancies are advertised so it is bound to be to Norman’s advantage to persevere and particularly to show interest in the work that is going on in the section by asking the people in it. I cannot say how important a display of enthusiasm on his part is at the present time and he should not do too put out by his lack of success so far. By far the most important part of W/S is tho “Human Relations” angle and it has been said that that amounts to about 75% and tho remaining 25% is Black Magic (Slide Rule, and various technique etc.)

We had interviews for five two’s [sic] on Thursday and again on Friday morning. I do not know how many there were, but I am satisfied that two of my temporary two’s will be made permanent.

My requisition for coach equipment was cut and I am now trying to find out who deals with such matters. It seems incredible to me that no one seems to know. Shall drop a fair sized spanner in his basket when I find out. I cannot seem to get far over tho coach business. We had a good meeting at Oxford so that I shall probably start a team there soon. When I do I shall ask for a coach, and bring some more pressure on the subject. At the moment I have no immediate use for one anyway. I do not know whether I told you but I have the keys of the Westbury coach in my drawer, so it is someone else’s next move.

We still have not had much chance to do any serious window gazing for a lamp shades and although we went to Harrow this week-end did not see any there.

Some rain your end to all accounts, but you did manage to make a start with some of your sowing. I remember the gulley when it fills with rain, but I suppose you hare cured that bit between the greenhouse and garden by the construction of the concrete paths. Prams are getting plenty of exercise but no doubt this will increase with the arrival of better weather. There is still plenty of indoor activity that goes on with them as well.

Cannot comment on the price for Roselands as I have no knowledge of its size and condition. I remember Hamblin the hairdresser although you have the name wrong. It is Hamilton, but Gfr. Fewings* said he knew him when he lived at Tiverton but his name was Middleton then – some mystery. I asked him many years ago if he know Tiverton and he said he did.

I am sure you will look forward to seeing Arthur when he comes to England this year. As you say it is necessary to have some funds to keep travelling like this, but I suppose it is all a question of values and the relative standard of living here and in America. It must be rather nice where he lives. I expect he likes to have someone to look up on his trips.

I said at Headstone Lane that you would be thinking of us all. The jaunt went well but of course Carol got so excited that she was sick as soon as we got back. To complete that side of the picture we had a repeat performance from her when returning from Harrow yesterday.

Cranley Gardens is at Ruislip Manor. If you face up the hill there, you take the last turning to the left before you get to the railway bridge, and then it is a turning to the left again.

Eileen is spending tho Week-end with, and so is Pauline. We went to Pinner Park this morning but it was not too pleasant. Few flowers out and a host of dejected ducks feeding off bread crumbs that the girls threw them.

I note all the people are selling their houses in your area – is it coincidence? The place must look a lot better without all the tree branches – more light.

Well that is all from those “Bowler Hatted people”.

Love.

[*Joseph Henry Fewings, 1873-1943]

Wednesday 8th February, 1961

On 8th Feb 202111th Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Leonard to the family:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Many thanks for another nice letter received on Tuesday and we are very glad to hear that so far you have escaped the flu and hope you will avoid it altogether. According to this morning’s paper the epidemic has now reached its peak and from now on should decrease. Mum and I are both feeling a lot better but not by any means 100% yet. We don’t want any more of that kind. From what you say it would appear to be very similar to that which you had in 1957. Anyhow enough of that for the time being. Note several absentees from your office and hope they will soon be back.

Have not had very much inclination for wine tasting but we were put on to a very fine pick-me-up called Vibrona 13/9 a bottle at Wine Merchants* – quite a kick in it.

We can both remember the school in Field End Road – it’s quite close to the Clay Pigeon. A nice looking building from outside and I should think it is quite up to date. Let’s hope Susan can get into it after Easter.

You are in for a number of meetings then by the sound of it – keep you on your toes. In a letter from Don this morning he says that last week there were no less than 25 Class 1 vacancies advertised for Work Study on W.R. – presumably some of these will come to your dept.

Norman Allen called up after his interview last Friday and said he was with them for about 20 minutes. Apparently Gallagher & Mann were two of the panel and a lot of questions asked which he thought he had dealt with alright. I asked him how many were interviewed and he said 30 for four vacancies. This seems ridiculous. Anyhow even by an interview he said he had got further than he thought he would.

Your accommodation at Paddington is pretty bad comparably with other areas but I suppose it will be remedied in due course. Did your requisition for coach equipment go forward or was it slashed? And did you manage to secure the coach you had your eye on at Westbury? It is all very interesting to be although not directly concerned now-a-days. You will have to have a fairly large staff to cover all the assignments in mind. By this time you will no doubt have settled one or two things with McDonald i.e. if he has returned to duty. His Swiss holiday did not do him much good going off so soon after his return.

Note you were at Ealing last Saturday but not much time for window gazing. We thought in the meantime before we come up that you would like to look at some lamp shades hence the suggestion. Put another coating of polish on standard this morning. Its raining in torrents and impossible to do anything outdoors. Quite nice yesterday and Mum and I dragged some of the apple prunings from the field to quite near garage for breaking up. Still some more to come when it is next dry again overhead. In the afternoon I put in three rows of shallots – working from concrete path – so that little job’s done. The gulley in the field between greenhouse and bungalow at the bottom is as full of water as I’ve ever seen it.

Fancy Susan wanting a paddle this weather! How are the prams getting on – plenty of exercise I expect when weather suitable.

We hear Roselands has been sold for £1800 [roughly £41,850 in 2021 money] – a more reasonable figure than first anticipated. Hamlin the hairdresser in Knowles Rd has bought it – expect you remember him from schoolboy days. Now we hear Spencers (Ian’s parents) are moving to Southampton and their house in the Avenue is up for sale. I remember the Hoys who used to live near Elfords many years ago.

So far as John is concerned I think he has done this on his own but no doubt Joe & Lydia would know what was happening. I’m sure he has made the right move otherwise he might have been an Irononger’s Assistant all his life. In a way both he and Pat have been fortunate inasmuch as they have been able to make their homes in their home town.

Arthur is supposed to be coming to England again this summer and he has said he is going to call on us this time. Must have some money to keep touring like this.

Am expecting my National Health contribution to be increased in April but am hoping to draw from them in just over a twelvemonths time to make up for it. Obviously I’m not going to get any increase in railway superannuation but the fact that some increase is being given to certain colleagues is interesting and as you say shows somebody is waking up at last.

We thought of you last Sunday afternoon going over to Headstone Lane – not altogether a nice day and I should not think the children were able to play on the lawn but we hope you all enjoyed yourselves. I went over ringing morning and evening but we did not go to Church, neither did I go over Monday night to ringing practice.

I see Ruislip getting a lot of newspaper publicity in connection with the alleged spying on behalf of Russia. Where are Cranley Gardens? Cannot seem to remember seeing the place. According to one account the person concerned used Ruislip Manor Station.**

Heard this morning Mr & Mrs Aston both ill with flu. Cornish looked over yesterday – first time for about four months – looking as artful as ever. He and Heel the other neighbour walk the sea wall after heavy seas and secure anything washed up. I call them Flotsan & Jetsam. They generally come back with something even if they have to drag it through river (at low tide) into Heel’s field. The people who bought Mrs Drewett’s house are there every day at some time busy with redecorating it but there is no sign yet of them moving in.

Quite a lot of the early spring flowers are out including snowdrops and crocuses so we must look forward to some better weather soon. Gardening will be all behind this year but it’s useless to get on the ground at present – more suitable for paddy field cultivation.

I will let you know if Norman hears anything further but it is possible you may hear before me via your Bristol contacts. Don’t worry about car when we come up – ours can stand in the ‘drive in’ if necessary but if anyone should have a garage vacant for a few days then we would like to take advantage of it.

Now I think this is the lot for another week – hope you are all keeping fit and well.

All our love to you both and once again lots of kisses for dear little Susan & Carol.

Mum & Dad

[*Not cheap; this would be £16 in 2021 money!]

[**This was the infamous Portland Spy Ring, which operated from a bungalow at 45 Cranley Drive. According to Google Earth the distance between the two houses is just under two miles, although this is a journey distance and not ‘as the crow flies’. 45 Cranley Drive is tucked away from any main travel routes so it’s most unlikely that Leonard would have been anywhere near it.]

Eva to the family on the remaining two-thirds of a sheet of Leonard’s writing paper:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

I saw the writing on the underside of envelope & think it was Susan writing Queens Walk. Did you have a nice time at Headstone Lane last Sunday, it was not a very nice day here.

Norman has just rung up to say he was not lucky with any of the jobs.

It has been lovely here today but very windy. Shall soon have to think about gardening I suppose.

Lots of people are selling their houses down this area. Mrs Harding in Westbourne Avenue is going to Hallam Rd to live with her mother & selling. Her son got married the other day & the daughter married a Spencer some time ago. You can see the furniture vans about every day at some place or other.

You can see nearly every house in St Andrew’s Drive now our trees have been severely pruned. Mr [illegible] has been doing drastic cuttings on his estate, he couldn’t see the wood for the trees. We may not get so much fruit now in consequence.

I expect Carol will want to go to school when Susan starts. Were you successful in getting her in? I think I can remember the school.

Ruislip was well in the news columns of our paper yesterday describing the place & people a nice set of bowler-hatted gentlemen who like “doing it yourselves” to keep their thoughts off the city. Lots more besides.

Lots of love to you all,

Mum & Dad

Thursday 2nd February, 1961

On 5th Feb 202112th Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 letters, UncategorizedLeave a comment

Leonard to the family:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Many thanks for another long letter and more drawings by Susan & Carol received on Tuesday morning. Post was very late owing to so many off with the flu. Well we have had our dose of it and we don’t want any more of that particular brand as it was most devastating. I’ve had it at times over many years but nothing to touch this lot and it has left us both as weak as kittens. Any question of gardening or other work outside is out for the time being and only a few chores performed such as fetching potatoes and greens and chopping a bit of firewood. Went to library in car Tuesday but was only out for about an hour. We hope none of you get it but if you do go to bed and send for Dr. and be careful later when you think you are beginning to recover for that apparently is another dangerous phase of the illness. There seems such a lot of it about in Clevedon and it is affecting different people in different ways.

So you were not able to get much out of Carol regarding her walk home from the party? Glad she did not appear to suffer from being out without hat and coat. She evidently had had enough of it and wanted to come home. Another time she will be older and probably more interested in the other girls and boys.

Note June has been to school about Susan – it will be nice if she can get in after Easter to enjoy the Summer time there*. Will have got used to it by the time winter comes – how far away is it? query about half a mile.

The weather you described in your letter was practically identical to that experienced here over the same period. It is nice this morning but unfortunately there is a bitter cold wind blowing and best place is indoors. Whilst i was in bed last week could hear some galvanised sheeting being lifted in the gale and this turned out to be some on our neighbour’s ground not properly secured – makes an awful clatter in the night.

So you hope soon to get down to some serious work in your new department. Nice for McDonald to get away to Switzerland for a week – winter sports presumably.

Yes as far as can be seen at the moment we would like to come up to Ruislip on the Wednesday before Easter – which incidentally is eight weeks from yesterday Wednesday 1st February – have had my dose of flu I hope for this winter and we both hope to be fully fit for the journey. The weather cannot get worse surely and must improve sometime. In the meantime must press on with the garden and greenhouse work. The expert has finished pruning the old trees but I’ve now to gather up the prunings and bring them to site near garage for cutting up. Apple wood as you know is quite nice for burning in the fireplace and gives off a pleasant aroma.

Had another 10 cwt of coal tipped in Tuesday but account not yet to hand – seems quite a good lot.

Norman called up last Monday evening and said his friend in staff office had shewn him the type written list of applicants for the Class 2 Work Study jobs and his name (Norman’s) was half way down the third foolscap sheet. So much for only anticipating a few applicants.** He had been along to Work Study Section and made acquaintance of Stevens but when he spoke to me your letter had not arrived indicating that you had spoken to Stevens about him. Anyhow I think he must work out his own passage now.

Electricity people not yet arrived to renew the wiring but we are ready for them now. Last Saturday all power and lighting was cut off in the area from about midday until 4.40 p.m. It did not affect us for meals as neither of us was feeling hungry but it must have annoyed thousands. It was again off from about midnight Saturday until 4.20 a.m. Sunday morning so it looks as if they had a major repair operation on their hands. Noted your remarks about renewal of faulty wire next door but I should not like to leave things in that state knowing full well a similar fault could occur at any time on any of the other wires.

Surprised to hear Welch has now got a Special A in Work Study – must make a few of the locals think. By the way is there any name comparable to Transom House for your set of offices? And where exactly are they?

Yes Webber Saunders are now the only iron mongers in Tiverton whereas several years ago there were one or two other firms – these latter have dropped out for various reasons but Webber Saunders have expanded with the years. We do not know but imagine John has had to find a nice sum of money to put down as a partner’s share but in due course it should prove a good investment – almost equivalent to buying a house over a period of years.

We like your comment re: covering lamp at night as though it is a parrot cage – obviously it has not received attention this week but will gets its share next. When you are out on one of your shop window gazing expeditions you must look at the lamp shades and get some idea of what you want so that we can get it whilst at Ruislip and finish the job off. Those shops near the Eastcote Arms are some way off from your place but it makes another point of call I expect when out in car.

Very sorry to hear of turn of events regarding property at West Drayton – back to where you started by the sound of it. Mr & Mrs Baker must both be very upset and wondering what to do next or even if anything can be done at all.

Your Saturday mornings seem fated – one week car not starting and another oversleeping – hope Susan better by now – the children – like us – miss the nice weather for getting about outdoors. Looking back I think one of the best weeks we had last year was when you were at Clevedon and we had those three nice trips to Burnham-on-Sea. Fancy paddling now. Even our trip in October to Exmouth was disastrous because of the floods and since then conditions overall have been bad.

Not much local news this week as we have not been out and about. Roy Hewett tried to look in last Monday but we quietly eased him off as we were not feeling so good then. Bill Aston looked in this morning for half an hour but he is not too good himself. Have not seen any of our neighbours for over a week but can hear them moving about.

Note all being well you are going over to Headstone Lane on Sunday – Carol can just about stand this short journey I expect without being upset. We shall be thinking of you Sunday afternoon.

George Hunt’s address – before I forget it again – is 62 Strode Road, Clevedon.

No more now – hope you are all keeping as fit as possible.

All our love to you both and lots of kisses for Susan & Carol.

Dad & Mum

[*Ugh. This is where the nastiness starts to creep in – and really never leaves until June’s death at the end of 2016. She had decided that two children in the house together were ‘too much of a handful’ and she wanted to get one of us out of the way, so sending me to school early was the obvious solution. When she was denied, she went on a rant (back at home) about the headmistress of the school – a lovely lady called Miss Dix (or maybe Dicks or Dickes) – whom she referred to as a dried-up old spinster in elastic-sided boots (!?) who clearly had no idea how difficult it was to bring up children. She took the refusal personally – she’d had her heart set on getting rid of me – and for years afterwards mocked poor Miss Dix’s assertion that “Oh no, my dear, this is such a precious time for you and your children it would be a pity to cut it short; you should enjoy them while they’re still young.” But the unfortunate fact was that we got in the way of the housework, to which June was so dedicated at every stage of her life that even in mid-dementia all she ever wanted to do was clean things, wash up, wash the paintwork etc. etc. She made her priorities very clear even at this early age, and being untidy or messy was absolutely the worst crime she could possibly imagine. On top of that, add the fact that she decided she was raising us to be ‘good little housewives’, and that Alec didn’t give a toss as long as we didn’t bother him, and you have the seeds of an increasingly happy childhood and some very poor relationships in later life. June was a great one for casting blame on anyone who thwarted her, and Miss Dix was just the first in a very long line of scapegoats she blamed for her utter inability to love or even like her children. They were, in her words, ‘an imposition’; children in the abstract were a fine idea, but the reality of them never really matched up to her imagination.]

[**A nifty bit of arithmetic here might suggest anything between 100 and 200 applicants, and Norman’s name would have been in the last quarter of the list.]

Eva to the family, on the remaining half-sheet of Leonard’s writing paper:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Many thanks for the nice drawings. Plenty of trousers about I fancy. Glad to say we are feeling better now although a bit groggy. We have had some rough weather again, not fit to get on the garden which is just as well.

We had a letter from Arthur yesterday. Where he lives they have had 50 days of 42 degrees cold [i.e. 42 Fahrenheit or 5.5 Centigrade] unheard of for 84 years & now they have had rain which they hadn’t had for three or four years.* I should not like that so perhaps our weather is best after all. I have some nice hyacinths out in bulb bowl also some scillas.

It is not far to school is it where Susan has to go just down over the dip & will she stay to lunch. June will have a busy time.

Mr Dugdale has moved out so Mrs Marshall will soon have some prospective buyers. It is the house next to Elford’s yard, where Reggie Hoy lived at one time.

What about the extra health service charges & insurance. I reckon Dad will have to pay another 8d [75p in 2021 money] a week until next March twelvemonths.*** Since Dad wrote his letter we have had a call from Norman to say he has an interview on Monday next at 4.30 p.m. & thanks Alec very much for what he has done.

I think this is the lot for now. Love from Mum & Dad.

[*From this description I would have guessed Australia, but a later letter actually mentions the USA.]

[**Apparently prescription charges were doubled to two shillings in 1961, which would be the equivalent of roughly £2.30 in 2021 currency. The current charge is £9.15.]

[***Leonard turned 65 in March 1962.]

Sunday 5th February, 1961

On 5th Feb 20213rd Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Alec to his parents:

Dear Mum and Dad,

Thank you both for your letters again this week. It seems that you have both had a really bad bout of flu this time and also postal staff if your mail is arriving late. The flu that is going about is supposed to be a strain of the Asian type that laid me out in 1957 in the December twice just in advance of your expected Christmas arrival. If you recall we were in doubt for a long time whether to call it all off. I well recall that I had not up to that time (or since thank goodness ) had an attack that made me feel so ill. Temperature must have been in the 200 mark* and could not lie comfortable. Had to turn over at least once every 30 seconds while the fever was on. It seems that the attacks are widespread new, and affect the whole of the Country. So far touch wood we hare not succumbed although we have all felt slightly off colour with headaches etc. Things all very normal to-day I am glad to say.

Mc Donald went down with it on Thursday, and Lay went home in the afternoon. A junior typist also complained of it on Thursday and failed to turn up on Friday. That accounts for one on either side of me in the office. I am not surprised it has left you very weak, and you are wise not to attempt too much too soon. I should not attempt anything more energetic than wine tasting in the garage for a day or so.

The school which we hope to accept Susan is almost directly behind us in Field End Rd. It is a very nice fairly modern school which we have seen from time to time as it is our local polling station. To get there Susan will have to go up over the top of this road and turn right at the bottom. I am not sure if there is a way in from this side or if she must go round by the Clay Pigeon and turn right again.

Your comment on the weather prompts me to say that yesterday was a very fine day for the most part although there was quite a lot of rain in the night. Friday was good too with quite an amount of sun. Generally the week has been a lot milder, but Monday presented us with a thunder storm accompanied by rain and hail for a short time about 6-0 pm. I was in the train homeward bound at the time and missed it. (The storm.)

Yes the serious work now starts in this department. From what I can see of it one has to define ones own area of influence or else it never gets done. Have L.D.C. Consultation meetings lined up for Monday ( Kensington Parcels ) Tuesday ( Acton Yard Staff and Old Oak Common Signalmen) and Wednesday ( Oxford Passenger Station ). At the moment I am included out of the Oxford jaunt, but if the flu casualties hare not returned I may yet land the whole lot. Have put Notley into Paddington Parcels alongside the existing team leader to assist and deputise in his absence. He may have to supervise a second assignment to prepare a scheme for Paddington Goods Shunters. My commercial colleague is meeting the Goods L.D.C. to start that one off this week.

I have to clear a lot of air with McDonald this week regarding the basis for Operating Schemes. He will have to give a decision on a number of points. Lay seems unable or unwilling to give any decisions other than to say Mr McDonald will not like that. Unfortunately I cannot seem to be able to get him to say what Mr McDonald would like.

Note you will be coming up on the Wednesday before Easter and hope the weather will be good for you. You might as well use the garage ( if you can get your car in ) as not much point in protecting an old car and leaving a fairly new one outside.

I gather the expert has finished your trees. Has he drastically thinned them out? I should imagine that is what he would have done. Should like to hear any comments he may have made about the quality etc of the various types of tree. Of course if there is an embarrassment of apple wood at Devonia we could relieve you of some of it, if there is some spare room in the boot.

Poor old Welch, I reckon he got that job to get him out of the way. He was not too bright on original work but may be better on routine fetching and carrying, tho I am afraid there is no equivalent place to Transom House or Marland House ( Cardiff } or the new place at Birmingham. We are occupying the fifth floor in the old Chief Commercial Officers block. ( Above D.O.S.O. on arrival side.) At the moment we are all seated on one long desk ( shades of journal clerks ) with no drawer or cupboard accommodation. All my stuff brought over from Winsland St by Notley in parcels and boxes remains dumped on the floor in a heap by the window. I have refused to consider opening any of the parcels to extract papers until our final accommodation is ready. McDonalds office should have been ready for his return but was only completed the early part of this week. He has green carpet overall and one desk in a room about as big as Bristol S.M. Lay and Davis (Head of New Works ) will occupy his old office and their carpet and renovated desks were being positioned towards the end of the week. Have not looked in to see what progress made. Poynter Mures and myself will have separate desks in line across the top of the outer office and then next again will be two lines of double sided desks for about twenty admin staff. Behind them will be two desks for the Research Head of Section and his assistant. I forgot to say that a typing pool suitably shut off by glass screens will be situated between Lay’s office and ours. From what I can see of it the former Commercial people have [to] live on near starvation level so far as equipment and stationery goes. Frightened them to death the other day when I put in a requisition for complete stocking of a Work Study Coach.

John seems to have landed on his feet where business is concerned. Was it his choice, or is this a bit of Joe’s astuteness?

Re OMO bright lamp. We went to Ealing yesterday but did not have a lot of time for window gazing. We are going again next week so may see a shade we like. In any case we should have a lot more time when you come up.

Re paddling. As stated yesterday was very sunny, so sunny in fact that Susan asked to have the paddling pool on the lawn. Just a bit optimistic.

Nice for you to get a letter from Arthur, but what weather. Perhaps it is not a bad place if they get little rain generally – good for rheumatism I should think.

I expect your indoor plants are nice. I am afraid they get too rough treatment here.

I thought the boy who lived next to Elfords was called Ronnie Hoy. He left about 1929 anyway.

Hope extra health service charges will not affect you much. Expect the increase in Railway Pensions will not affect you as the retirement date stipulated was prior to 1955. Still it is good to know these things are being attended to.

Hope Norman has a good interview and wish him luck, but it would seem he is in need of it if that number of applicants is lined up. It is in his favour that he has an interview and thus has an opportunity to win friends and influence people. Speculation as to the result is a waste of time I suppose, but if their organisation is as large as ours, there will be need for about 14 class two’s so he should not be too far away from selection even if unlucky this time. If he should be successful and is sent here on a course ask him to pop in and see me.

Well have been instructed to clear the table for early lunch. ( Headstone Lane jaunt has reshuffled the timetable.) Will close now hoping that you both are a lot better and shaken off the effects of the flu. There are several rows of crocuses out in South Ruislip so that means the better weather cannot be so far away now, and perhaps you can got some healthgiving sun through kitchen or porch windows.

Love from us all for now.

[*Yaaaay, manflu! Naturally Alec’s temperature was higher than anyone else’s ever and of course he suffered more than any human being ever has. It’s a miracle he survived!]

Sunday 29th January, 1961

On 29th Jan 20211st Feb 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Alec to his parents:

Dear Mum and Dad

Thank you both very much for your last letter, arrived well and truly before we had got up yesterday morning. More of that later.

We were both very sorry to learn that you had both been attacked by the ‘flu, and hope that it was only a mild one. There have been several references in the paper to a ‘flu epidemic which is moving southward from Northern England and the Midlands, but so far London has not had it too badly. Needless to say we do not want it and we are only too sorry to learn that you failed to dodge it. Perhaps ours is to come, but that is one thing that we can do without – liable to break the camels back.

Junes foot, although still showing pink, is fully recovered, and causes no distress. Yes Carol did give us a fright – how she got here we shall never know as she cannot give a coherent account of it. Have seen the people at the Sunday School twice since, and although they seem to take it lightly, have said they have not let either of them out of sight since. No ill effects apparent in Carol although she was stone cold on arrival. The party was destined to end at 6-0 pm so Carol lost an hour at least.

June went down to the School to see the Headmistress on Wednesday and she has promised that she will try to get Susan in after Easter, There are only a limited number of places so that if there are more actual five-year-olds presenting themselves than the teacher expects ( from advice ) Susan will have to wait till after the Summer – say some time in September.

I agree it is a pity that we are all going commercialised, McDonald has strong views on most subjects, including prejudice, and I expect to be able to hoist him by his own petard if his anti-operating tactics can be proved to be based on that. He has spent the last week on holiday in Switzerland. I hope to take over a grip ( at least ) on the reins this week as I can not see any forward progress being made until I do. Lay ( Work Study Assistant ) allows himself to be inundated. He has had copious quantities of work dropped on him, and instead of passing it down the line or even tackling it himself he puts it all to Mc Donald for a decision.

I shall lose my all stations pass in the near future. I don’t know what level one has to be before you get an all stations pass when in a Division.

Easter is as you say only a short while away now. February will be upon us by the time you get this letter ( even half over if my postal arrangements continue to break down ) and it is possible that the weather may take a turn for the better when March arrives. Of course it is doubtful if we shall get really good weather with Easter so early. The arrangements proposed for your visit sound in order, and I take it you will come on the Wednesday and return when it suits you – remember your last was curtailed involuntarily?

You referred in your latter to lack of rain to date of writing, but I expect you have had more than your share by now. The early and middle parts of the week were extremely cold here but Friday, Saturday and to-day have been very very wet with gale force winds. Can not seem to keep the lid on the dustbin, and have had to weigh it down with a heavy wooden box. It has poured all day to-day and the wind has been terrific.

Good thing to have expert to prune trees. Hope he avoided strongly pruning those that you had grafted or they will have reverted. I expect he has removed a considerable quantity of wood so that you will be busy sawing up logs for the fire. Apple burns well in the grate.

Have reached the part of your letter where you explain about Mothers flu, and must say she seems to have had a bad time of it. Not many illnesses keep her in bed, I hope you do not get yours ( or second lot ) on Good Friday or shall have your bed transferred to garage.

I note the accent on the lighting wire being rewired, but I was aware that it was the lighting wire that had failed. As existing equipment had to be scrapped and a new start made it would have been possible to run all heating and lighting off the two ring circuits. Its only a matter for personal choice, but I see no merit in having several electrical systems in one house when one will do. I gather the £ 28. 10. 0 is for labour and renewal of life expired equipment and as such it seems reasonable enough. Your neighbour should not be in trouble if he has renewed the faulty wire as that is where the danger lies. The components in the circuits do not present anything like the same amount of risk as that which can be caused by a perished wire resulting in a short. In the attic, mice have a habit of eating through rubber covered wire of the type you would have had, but they can not deal with the new plastic wire. It is so tough that it is very difficult to cut and shape and plays old harry with one’s hands.

Re Norman Alien, I explained the position regarding him to Ted Stevens, and asked that he pass on to Mann. Also explained that Norman would probably look in to see him some time. It seems that Stevens is starting up Plymouth Passenger station this Monday ( with Colin Lovemore) but has to detach himself almost immediately to apply a scheme for Carriage Cleaners at Kingswear. It looks as though Norman will not see him in Bristol for some time, Welch has got a Special A in the Transom House Admin, Section ( Work Study ) good luck to them ).

Should not think that Burt will ask awkward questions on Work Study. He knows little about it himself although I suppose he can be primed.

Sorry to say there is now some news about the housing prospects at: West Drayton. The prospective buyer has called round to say the deal is off. It seems to be a very fishy business, as if the situation can be read aright the prospective buyer must be about bankrupt himself.

Note your comments on the Football Match. I felt that the locals had not quite the skill of former teams, but they did not look as bad as the score suggested. Nevertheless it must be said that Walton were good value for their win, I see that yesterday they defeated Hornchurch and Upminster ( also in the Athenian League) by 9 goals to 3 so someone else found the going too hot.

I note that John is doing well in Business, but I am surprised to learn that the firm is the only ironmongers in the town. I wrote to Tiverton after Christmas.

Wine still popping steadily although the pace is reducing a little. I expect it will go another week before stopping. Note also that the Standard Lamp is getting a little lovelier each day, We shall not need to plug it in when it gets here, but just cover it at night like a parrot. Glad Mother has kept the pictures, they must reveal the progress that has been made. Hope you thought to put a date on them.

Do not remember the cycle trip to Bristol, but did spend one day at Wrington having got there via Kingston Seymour.

There are some new shops/down by the petrol station toward the Eastcote Arms. They are in Field End Road ( Eastcote to Harrow ) nearly at the junction with Victoria Rd ( Ruislip Manor to Harrow). They are not really in walking distance for shopping purposes, but they seem quite nice shops. Some are yet to be allocated. Note that Co-op have bought Billets and that there has been an alteration to old Normans shoe shop.

Not much news to give you this week. We had a broken night on Friday night with Susan making a fuss. To avoid waking Carol, June dumped her in with me and took over Susan’s bed herself. I had two wakeful sessions from her then all was quiet. It stayed that way for a very long time [and] in fact when June came in to find out what time it was, we discovered that it was twenty to nine. That hit on the head plans to make an early start and motor to Ealing. Instead we paid a couple of bills at Ruislip during which process I got soaking wet and had to dry off’with scarf.

Delph and Roy and Christopher came over to-day to lunch and tea. Of course they wrecked the joint between them, but all passed off amicably and the place has settle d down to a temporary peace. We go to Headstone Lane* for the return fixture next Sunday – the girls will have to forego Sunday School that day.

To-day Carol came home from Sunday School with a toy celluloid windmill. It appears that the young ones had been given them. None for Susan, but no other comment from her other than the statement of fact.

Well we all hope your illnesses will have cleared up now, and that you will have got over the effects of the flu. Love from us all.

[*i.e. to Geoff and Stella]

Thursday 26th January, 1961

On 26th Jan 20212nd Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Leonard to the family:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol,

Many thanks for both your letters and the drawings from Susan received yesterday. We are so glad to hear that June’s foot is healing up nicely and that there were no complications but Miss Carol must have given you a fright last Saturday. Fancy finding her own way home in the dark at her age. She could very well have walked off in the opposite direction and been really lost. Hope she did not catch cold through being without her hat and coat. Whatever did she say when you opened the door to her? Can imagine the teachers’ faces when one of their youngest pupils had got out of schoolroom without being missed – will put them on their guard in future. Susan apparently enjoyed herself at the party even if very few were dancing. What time was party expected to break up?

Susan – and Carol this time – have sent us some very nice drawings – improving every week. Thank you both very much.

Must make you realise they are growing up now that you have to go down to the school this week in connection with Susan’s entry after Easter and not so very long to wait before you will be doing the same for Carol.

Note you duly started new job on the 16th inst and that Mc Donald laid on lunch. Yes I suppose all work will be commercialised somewhat which is a pity but the Commercial Dept. being in power will have their own way. It is better than two departments being at loggerheads. Quite a variety of assignments in front of Work Study Section by all accounts.

Yes we quite understand you will not be able to visit us on odd occasions now your territory is confined to the London Division – presumably your pass also will be limited accordingly.* It is not many weeks to Easter now and gives Mum and I something to look forward to and we thank June for her preliminary suggestion to start from here on the Wednesday. Will leave it with you to confirm or alter when it gets nearer the date.

In the meantime we must try and get through this wintry spell of weather. No rain this week so far but a bitterly east wind. Have had an expert in to prune the apple trees and have been helping him on Monday & Tuesday but it had been so cold he has not shown up.

On Tuesday Mum was not too well and yesterday was certainly under the weather with an obvious dose of flu. Only came downstairs for about four hours then back to bed. Improving now but it will take its course. There is a tremendous lot of it about in Clevedon at the moment. I suppose I shall get mine on Good Friday again – I hope not.

Have had an estimate from Bell for rewiring the lighting and renewal of all light switches (to up-to-date pattern) for £28.10.0. [Roughly £670 in present-day currency.] The total includes rewiring for 6 one-way lights 4 two-way lights 5 two amp plugs and 14 switches and I’m going to be on hand when they do it – in about a fortnight – to see that newly decorated walls like the hall and other rooms not booked for early decoration are not disfigured. Your ‘ring’ circuit arrangement seems alright but I shall not alter the exiting method and Bell’s proposed now. Incidentally I did not realise until recently that we have no less than six separate fuse switches over the inside of front door and I must find out what each controls when workmen here.**

Talking to Heel one day this week I mentioned the lighting trouble and to my astonishment he said “Oh yes we have had that but I got a fellow in to renew the faulty wire.” Apparently he himself has been up under tiles and got a shock messing about with it before sending for someone to put it right. Seems to me he is asking for more trouble.

Was expecting a telephone call from Norman Allen on Wednesday morning when there was a knock on back door. It was Norman who apparently had a couple of days off. He was very grateful for information re: Work Study – no news of any interviews yet but he says he has been told Gerry Burt will take them. If this is so he can look out for some awkward questions. He has not met either Mann or Stevens but will be on lookout for them.

Noted there is no further news yet of rehousing for June’s Father & Mother. It’s such a pity to have this uncertainty hanging over their heads all this time. Perhaps someone will wake up soon and make a move to get things going again but in any case it looks as if they will see the Winter out at 155 High Street now.***

We did not know result of the Clevedon match until reading it [in] Sunday paper. I never gave them a chance to win but should think they were disappointed at score and disgusted with themselves.**** Pity they had not passed out in previous round.

Had a letter from Tiverton yesterday and learn that John has now entered into a partnership with Webber Saunders the ironmongers in whose shop he has been working since he left school. He has taken the place of Fred Fewings who died last September*****. It is a thriving business and apart from the town trade they cover the countryside for a very wide area. The other two partners are both elderly people so John in due course will become principal of the firm. Uncle Joe when writing us said they had had a letter from you recently.

So your latest effort at winemaking turned out alright. Shall have to pick out a few bottles to bring up at Easter.

Have put another couple of coats of polish on lamp standard – each one makes it shine a little brighter. (Sounds like advert for detergent.)

We have now been out since last writing you – except to Church on Sunday – but should have gone to library had Mum been alright this week. Perhaps we shall be able to before the weekend.

No more this time so hope you are all keeping free of colds etc. and that you can get out and about in spite of cold weather.

All our love to you both and lots of kisses for dear little Susan & carol.

Mum & Dad

[*Alec and June both had lifetime ‘privs’ giving them either free or discounted train travel anywhere in the UK. These were also available to the children until we either turned 18 or entered the workplace.]

[**You may think this indicates a rather startling lack of curiosity given that Leonard and Eva had been in this house since the day it was built, more than thirty years earlier.]

[***I have been unable to definitively identify a picture of 155 High Street at the time but the building on left-hand side of this picture lines up exactly with my recollection and was a tobacconist’s in 1935. If my assumptions are correct that Frank ceased to manage the Strand cinema in Southend when it was taken over by the Essoldo chain in 1955, they could not have been in residence at 155 High Street much more than six or seven years in total – although the front was presumably repainted and they certainly had shop blinds made with the name BAKER in very large letters on them. One at least of these ended up as part of our play equipment but was presumably banished for good when we moved house in 1967.]

[****I have been unable to locate details of this match.]

[*****Fred Fewings must have been a relative of Eva’s, presumably a cousin, but at this stage I have been unable to identify him.]

Letter from Eva on the remaining two-thirds of a sheet of Leonard’s writing paper:

Dear Alec June Susan & Carol

Thank you for both letters also the drawings from the girls they are coming on. I shall soon be able to open a picture gallery. Glad to say I am feeling better today but I ached in all my bones. Dad has gone down with it now but he would stay up it would have been better if he had stayed in bed longer. Flue is bad around here.

Mr Say has been today to do some more pruning but he did not come yesterday same reason he ached all over. It was really too cold to snow they have just given out that we may have some.

Fancy Carol running home what a fright it gave you, as bad as when Alec was small he & Frank Hessel came in with the tale that they had cycled to Bristol & back unheard of in those days you will have to buy some hair restorer to keep your colour black.

We are looking forward to coming up fancy it will be twelve months since we saw Ruislip. Glad Alec likes his new job. I did not see Normal Allen as I was in bed but that morning Dad did quite well with three visitors S. James & Mr Aston. Have they built any more shops round your way, there are several here where old Norman the shoemaker was & his house there are three new shops. Co-op has bought Billets.

The men have straightened up the path where the water leak was.

I think this is all news now love from us both.

Mum & Dad

Sunday 22nd January, 1961

On 22nd Jan 20211st Jan 2021 By Sue JenkinsIn 1961 lettersLeave a comment

Alec to his parents:

Dear Mum and Dad

Thank you very much for comprehensive letter with all the latest dope. I am not surprised you had to read my last several times to sort out all the bits and pieces. We certainly had variety all right and there is more to come later in this letter.

Firstly let me say that June’s foot is much better now, and can almost be trodden on with safety. Most of the old skin has now gone, and only the hardened edges of the scald are left. The new skin tender and red is toughening up satisfactorily and there is no sign of any part turning septic. For all practical purposes the case book there is now closed, with relief and luck.

The episode of the car is quite amusing to look back on and I agree that good job doors were closed. I take no steps to lock car doors in garage as the girls are not supposed to be let in. There is usually a saw or two, or bottle of some slug killer or liquinure floating about, and it would make hard and unnecessary work hoisting all the lethal objects up out of the way, so easiest way is to keep them out.

Susan has produced another nice drawing this week, in fact the place is covered with them. I am not sure which one is intended for you, will have to find out.

Yes I started the new job on Monday last but not very much to report yet. The Motive Power chap is not very happy – he comes from Newport and as his equivalent job in Cardiff has become vacant already he is after a transfer. The Commercial man is not far off retirement ( less than ten years). He is a big N.U.R. man having started on the deck at Paddington Goods and stayed there all his working life to date. He came to us at Reading for his training. He told me then that he went to Moscow with Jim Figgins* and met Stalin or who ever was the big shot then. Quite a nice chap but has a somewhat limited scope.

So far the drill has been indoctrinate into Commercial Department methods. McDonald has the reins in his hands and insists that everything be standardised on Commercial lines. Remember the three Work Study Assistants so far appointed in the Divisions are all Commercial? My staff have been put with existing commercial assignments to learn their methods. I gather that my first job will be to supervise the Paddington Parcels job which has already started. Applications have been received for us to prepare schemes for the signalmen at Old Oak Common (about six boxes ) Yard Staff at Acton, Parcels staff at Acton, and the Area Board Chairman (who lives at Oxford ) wants Oxford station re-appraised. Can see a merry time ahead. McDonald started off by lunching the three of us plus head of his admin. section.

I am sorry Mum had got ahead with preparations for my visit, but as you appreciate I cannot look very far ahead in planning these trips. Visits are out now for a while I am afraid. Yes Easter will not be long now will it? I have not looked up the date but gather it is in March this year. With February a short month we shall have to start preparations for your visit.

You certainly have got some bother with your electric lighting. I should imagine Bell’s best bet ( and cheapest ) will be to disconnect the existing wiring altogether, put in a 30 amp. fuse box and put you in two separate ring mains ( 13 amp. sockets) one downstairs and one upstairs. At a guess I would say that the 30 amp. box would be about £1 plus say £3 for wire, apart from labour charge of installation. To this should be added the cost per socket outlet which would be say 12/- ea. excluding labour charge. I think your cooker which comes off a separate fuse box would not be affected. Of course by this method you would not have centre or wall lights in rooms, or unsightly switches by the door. Wall lighting could be provided by running a short length of conduit up from the junction box. By the system described, the fuse box, two ring mains, with outlets ( two in Dining Boom, and Front Boom, and in kitchen, and one each in hall, landing, three bedrooms and bathroom) would come to about £ 11 excluding labour charge ( which is anyones guess ). All additional points could be put in by yourself, and this would also give some scope for standard lamp making. It would appear from the evidence of burning that you have been very lucky – that is how Mr Baker’s cinema at Southend burned down.**

Note you will be coming round with the hat and no doubt an advance on car just now would be helpful, but I am afraid I shall have to say I am sending you £5 but not this week. Seriously, I have not forgotten the subject, and have to say the outstanding will be cleared off this year.

I note your request about Norman Allen. So far as he is concerned, I do not think he need worry. As he says not many want to rough it and do much travelling about. My advice to him is to show the maximum of enthusiasm for the work, say that only by Work Study can the present mess be sorted out, and believe it himself. Persons applying for Class Twos are not expected to know much about Work Study, that can be taught. What is necessary is to decide if the man is the right type.*** He should at some stage of the interview mention that he has applied before, is still anxious to take up this work, and has made enquiries from staff as to the nature of the work etc. If he has any sense he will not mention George Welch’s name in this connection unless he is asked point blank. He can mention my name if he likes.

Mann is in the Bristol Area all next week until Friday, so I can not get hold of him but Stevens is at Transom House on Monday and will see Mann that evening so if Norman wants to he can contact him and express his enthusiasm for the work. ( Sorry I realise that this letter will arrive too late to do any good for this Monday ). I should certainly tell him to get in tough with Mann or Stevens on the side and explain the position.

Nothing further to report on the Yiewsley Housing situation. Seems to be a lack of funds on the part of the prospective purchasers, linked with the refusal of their plans by the council etc. Everyone there is as well as can be expected although not exactly bursting with health.

Sorry to hear of the Kenn Rd accident. How we avoided a similar incident I do not know, June took Susan and Carol to the party on Saturday while I went off to the match. I got back about five past five and was just putting the car away when June came round from next door. It appears that only a few moments before, a knock came at the front door, and there was Carol with no hat or coat. She had slipped out of the party and found her way back in the dark across two roads. Of course June nearly passed out when she saw her and was just dumping her on the Benns to go to look for Susan in case she was out anywhere. When I got to the party Susan was there right enough and no one had noticed that Carol was gone. Was able to pass on the shock to the Sunday School Teachers there. No one will ever know what traffic was on the roads that she crossed and I suppose it is better not to think about it. It appears she had lead them a bit of a dance by asking to go to toilet and then not doing anything. Who opened the door for her no one knows. I am pretty satisfied that Susan did not do it.

Not much point in giving you a report on the match. The result was no more than just. I was surprised to see that the team as a whole played as if it did not matter awfully much one way or the other. I saw Doug Hand after the game and he was greatly disappointed. He says he is working in Portishead ( ? in or near the Gas Co. or Works ) right opposite to the Electricity concern and sees Frank Hessel frequently.

Sorry your gardening endeavours upset pencil holding. Why not try one of these? [ i.e. a typewriter]

Note Mum’s remarks on the scald treatment but our book says the same. Dr. said not to cover it at all or put anything on it and ordered bathing in pint of tepid water to which one teaspoon of salt had been added.

Yes the lights in the garage must have been nuts for them. They pulled all the knobs in sight, and it must have been like playing a harmonium.

I must tall you what Susan told me about the party. She said “I tried to get some of the boys to dance with me” and then said ( like an angler who has fished all day and only caught one) “one did for about half an hour”.

Bad luck on your entry in the competition, but your outings sound good also the film. Talking about Madeira, I had a taste of my latest concoction yesterday and it is progressing very well. Shall have to make some more soon – I see some dates left over from Xmas lurking around doing nothing.

By the way please let us have George Hunt’s correct address when you get a chance. We keep sending card c/o Mr P.

Well there it is for this week again. Hope you are well. Won’t be long to better weather now. Love from us all.

[*General Secretary of the N.U.R. 1948-1953]

[**Okay, this is a bit bewildering. Frank Baker ran both the Strand and the Mascot cinemas in Southend/Westcliff. You would think, from the way Alec expresses himself, that the cinema in question had been destroyed by fire, as indeed the Mascot was – but not until 1964. The Strand closed in 1960 and was subsequently demolished to allow for the extension of a nearby department store; I have been unable to find any mention of a fire there. In fact it looks as if Frank might have left the Strand when it was bought by the Essoldo chain in 1955 and taken on the sweetshop/tobacconist in West Drayton/Yiewsley at that point. At any rate the ‘Picture Palaces’ page on the ‘Southend Timeline’ (see Mascot link above) only lists one cinema as having been completely destroyed by fire and that was much later and as a result of boys throwing fireworks, apparently, not electrical failure. If either cinema – or indeed a different one – was damaged but not destroyed by fire at another time, I have yet to locate any information about it.]

[***Naturally, no women were expected to apply.]