Memories are made of this

Maxine Line.

Mum came from Earls Barton and dad from Finedon. He lived in one of the terrace house on the green opposite the Infant School and later they moved to Eastfield Crescent.

My dad worked for Griggs Money’s near Tenter Lane but the factory has now been converted into flat. I went to Finedon Infant School and I hated it so much that I had to be dragged there each day. I clearly remember a teacher putting me on her lap and slapping my bottom. I also hated the junior school it was so Victorian. I remember the toilets being at the top of the playground and there were always cobwebs and spiders.

Every Friday night we would watch all the factory workers coming along Allen Road. My dad would give me sixpence when he met us outside Underwood’s. I remember that there was always an air of excitement with people returning from the factories.
We used to make our own entertainment. At Christmas time we would make decorations out of newspaper and then decorate our bedroom, as money was not available.

Some of the games we played were shadow tick, which meant you played at night and if someone stood on your shadow it would be your turn to chase and catch someone else. We played marbles, hula-hoop, hop scotch and hide and seek round the Crescent and handstands against the fencing. We used to have to be in at night by nine o’clock otherwise we got a clip round the ear.
I remember the terraced houses being knocked down where Gomex is now.
I think that if there were any problems most people would be only too willing to help each other out I think that we could do with a few more shops. I used to love the co-op drapery it was nice to look round and for people to buy small gifts .I have always loved it here because I feel safe.