Down Memory Lane with Digger

Posted: November 15th, 2017

From ERNEST ‘DIGGER’ BOWRY

I attended the 2017 AGM in October in London, and was pleased to see quite a good number of members.

We had a very good report on the Association’s finances – congratulations to the committee for the work they do in these difficult times for investments.

I must say that Leather Lane looks more an international street restaurant at lunchtime these days, not a sign of the old stallholders.

Looking at the obits section in Mirror Pensioner, I see one of our old day-staff pals has passed away – Tommy Murray, always known as “Ruby”.

This photo was taken as we came off the fishing boat at Southend – “Ruby” is third from the left, and me and Bernie Wain are on the far left of the picture. Must have been in the 1960s I think. I won the 10 bob prize for the biggest catch!

Seeing the picture in the newsletter of the old lorry delivering reels reminds me of a time when I helped to back in a horse and cart with a few reels on into the bottom gate at Back Hill, that must have been 1948. Oh for a picture of that. Are there any in the archives?

Back Hill is directly opposite the other end of Leather Lane. “Little Italy” it was called. I worked there for many years, used to clock in and out in those days. My clocking card was no.3. Can’t forget things like that!

Hope this has brought back a few memories. Digger Bowry.