Cratfield, Suffolk

Sparrows

I remember Sparrows very well. I lived in Laxfield from 1967 - 1972 I remember going up to the attic at Christmas time and buying some goodies. Also, I remember the phone box outside, a friend and I got into trouble for making false phone calls. We were 9 or 10 years at the time. I'm planning to visit England in June, and am hoping to make a trip to Laxfield.
Jane E. Johnson (nee Riemenschneider)

Childhood

I grew up at Turkey Hall in Cratfield but Laxfield was more of my village. I worked at Sparrows grocery store and my parents, Terry & Joan Ward bought my first "new" bike from the store pictured here. I remember getting it for passing the 11+ exam and spent hours riding around Laxfield and Cratfield - occasionally stopping to by a Mars Bar at the bike shop. I lived in the area from 1966 to 1986 and have to say I have nothing but fond memories - it almost seems as if life stood still in that quaint village for 20 years. I often find myself doing Google searches to re-connect with pictures of that era of my life. I haven't been back to Laxfield in about 15 years but am feeling the draw. I think it will be soon.

Many pleasant evenings

The low house was run by a lovely couple named Paul and Janet Parsons. The had a son Zach (Zacky Bongo) and a daughter, Tabitha. What a pleasant atmosphere they always maintained. Friends like the Parsons are rare and sadly I do not know where they are now. We were only a stones throw away in St. Mary's cottage. The only seperation from the pub was a very small garden and an equally small garage. I hope all is well with my long lost friends from Laxfield.

low house

lived here in the 'low house' for a couple of years with my parents; eddie and anna macleod, in fact i feel my heart still lives here. the sunday hunts, kippers on a friday, local folk groups around the settle, big, thrashy, noisy 'cool' bands in the stable/shed. the beer festivals, the adnams ale and me and my family welcoming everyone into our home, the Kings Head.
xxx