THESE pictures are from Silverdale Road street party and I was 12 years old at the time

For some reason my friend and I are sat at the front of the group picture.

My friend, Pamela, lived in Handel Terrace, Polygon and Alen – sat opposite with his brother – I think lived in Burton Road. Not all roads had parties so I guess you fitted in where you could.

I wonder could that be the mayor being presented with flowers in one of the pictures?

The happy day meant an end to being woken up and a dash to the air raid shelter while wearing my siren suit my mother had made to keep me warm. The shelter was at the end of the road.

My parents let rooms to American officers who would often bring large tins of fruit and my first Hershey bar. They also brought wonderful magazines which I shared with my friends.

All so long ago!

From Jean Colverson (née Baudains)