Canal Memories

A Memory of Southall.

I grew up at Bulls Bridge and my maiden name was Betty Miles. I went to Western Road school from the age of 5 to 14 and spent all my single life at Bulls Bridge because dad worked for the British Waterways and we had one of the cottages canalside opposite where Tesco is today (2010). We used to buy our papers and sweets from Ive's paper shop in Western Road and our butter, milk and perishables from Jones' Dairies and vegetables from Thompsons Greengrocer's opposite. I used to go the the Dominion and Gem cinemas and the Palace which is now so very different! I worked at Western Dyers and Cleaners for 3 years from 1946. I began dressmaking in 1949 and worked for Mr Kershberg in North Hyde Road. We also went to Speedway on Flexman Coaches every Thursday supporting Wembley. I attended dances at the Municipal in Bridge Road with my sister and friends and during the war my parents belonged to the British Legion located opposite the Manor House. This was a time when you could walk down lonely canalside towpaths safely at night, community spirit and friendships were at its peak and everyone had good clean fun!! Happy Days