Section 1: Origins
In which the ladies discuss their origins in Spondon; recall ‘Shanty Town’ a complex of workmen’s huts used by the builders of Celanese; playing on the canal side; people and social events of the village.
Section 2: Diet
Asked about diet, the ladies tell of the rationing during the war, the further development of Celanese in employment.
Section 3: War Days
They talk about the preparation for war and the family experiences.
Section 4: School
They recall starting at ‘The Old School’ then onto Springfield and later Spondon House; going to school in the cold (possibly 1947 ‘Big freeze’) and details of the teachers.
Section 5: Classes and Sport
Reflections of the teachers and subjects taught; also sport and competition participation.
Section 6: Air Raids
What happened when the air raid sirens went off; taking jobs after leaving school.
Section 7: Local Shops
Village shops, start of the NHS and 11plus exams.
Section 8: 11plus and a School Tragedy
More reflections on school and teachers and the tragedy of a girl being killed at the school by a falling tree.
Section 9: Families
Shopkeepers remembered, old houses and families in Spondon.
Section 10: Families and events
More talk of families with Dedmans, Bartons and Coxons being mentioned and excursions to Locko Park.
Section 11: Mischief and opportunities
Door knocking remembered, chaos at Celanese finishing times and the buses waiting for the workers, ‘moon dipping’ for some and job opportunities.
Section 12: Lucky escapes
Stories of unintended truancy and a brush with the local policeman.