Memories of 1955

The delightful photographs of Mitcham revive many pleasant memories of my youth and growing up on the nearby St. Helier Estate in Carshalton. The year 1955, in particular, evokes strong personal emotions that have remained permanent. As a young 17 year old draughtsman, I worked for W. H. Armfield Ltd, a steel building company located in Morden Rd. It was here that I met my first love Jackie who worked in her father's Transport Cafe next door. We used to visit the Majestic Cinema and I remember walking home along London Road past the Post Office (or was it the Telephone Building), the Cricket Green and Leo's ice cream parlour to Mitcham Station, turning into Morden Road where Jackie lived. In 1956, I emigrated to Canada and pursued a career in Civil Engineering. I believe Jackie became a fashion model for Mary Quant Designs. I have never forgotten that brief time in my life and I return to England every year, always making a visit to Mitcham. The inevitable changes have taken place over the years although happily some parts of Mitcham remain as I remember them in the fifties.  Derek Collins, Niagara, Ontario, Canada.