Memories of Daventry

Round the rec

Hi there
I remember the day that this engine arrived in the rec. It was a source of great entertainment for us youngsters particulary, as originally everything was accessible. I remember climbing up on the footplate and seeing a little lad emerging from the firebox. It was rumoured that it was possible to get into the boiler and exit up the funnel but I never saw it done! It was great for playing hide and seek - I found one hiding place that no-one ever found. Sadly, even back then, Steel plates were soon welded over the more interesting points of access but it remained a popular attraction on every visit to the rec. Notice the railings around the roof? They are more recent. One proof of male bravado amongst the 9 to 12 year olds was jumping off the roof onto the grass below. Can you imagine that happening nowadays? I do not live in Daventry any more and I was saddened on a recent visit to see the state that the old chuffer had been allowed to get into.
All the best
Dave Cairns

My Wedding Day

Hi there,
I was married in The Church of The Holy Cross on November 1st 1958. It was a very cold day as you would imagine, being Winter time, but it was a lovely sunny day. I remember walking up to the big doors on my Fathers` arm and feeling so happy. There were loads of friends and other people on each side. My Father owned The "Danetre Fancy Bakery". He was "Simply the Best". He made and iced my beautiful wedding cake. We had our reception at The B.B.C club, which probably isn`t there now. I would like to know. I was married in white and carried a bouquet of peach roses. The bridesmaids had matching peach dresses, which, even today would be acceptable. They were really beautiful!! My sister and my friend were my bridesmaids. I intend to come back sometime soon to visit my friend and see what Daventry is like now. I expect that I will get lost. I could go on but I would probably bore you, so I won't,
Kind regards to you and Daventry,
from Jo Keenan.