A Whitby Childhood

A Memory of Whitby.

Around 1956-64 I used to spend a lot of time in Whitby with my nanny Sally Dobbs who was a Whitby resident all her life. Her brother ran the museum where I have fond memories of rocking in a little wooden cradle which was on display there. He also worked on the lifeboats. He lived in a terrace leading up to the abbey steps.

Sally and I lived in a little cottage right behind Drydens fish & chip shop. Old Mr Dryden used to fry the fish that we'd get when the boats came in - always plaice for me.

There was a long run of very steep stone stairs behind the cottage that went up to Baxtergate where I'd always hope for a treat of pink sugar coated shortbread from the bakery.

My days would be spent searching for jet and collecting driftwood to dry for the fire and sandstoning the front step. Another strong memory is of waiting in the hairdressers (Madge) for Sally to get her hair permed. The smell still lingers now.

Despite having travelled the world and lived for many years in the madhouse that is London, Whitby still retains its very special place in my heart. I long to return but am scared to see the changes that I know have taken place. Will I find anything of my Whitby?

I have so many wonderful memories and would love to hear from anyone who remembers my darling Sally.

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