Growing Up In Streatham 1940's 50's 60's

A Memory of Streatham.

I was born at 55 Tankerville Road. It was a lovely road with tennis courts and beautiful Chestnut and Oak Trees, which were all removed when the new houses were built there. I was pleased to see on a recent visit that new trees have grown up now and at least one of the beautiful flowering cherries which I used to gaze at as a child was still in the front garden of (I think) number 49. I grew up with neighbours Margaret and Doreen Shapiro, Colin Sheehan, Leslie Gaiger, John Morris and Mike Ardley, we used to play cricket across the road with the wicket chalked on the wall - (no cars in those days) Went to school at Woodmansterne Primary where I made friends with Diane Howard, Susan Davis, Bronwyn Williams and Jean Tutt among others. Later went to Dunraven Secondary Modern. At one time I ran for the school as a hurdler, training by running round the common and at the running track at Tooting Bec. Also used to swim at the Lido, we seemed to have long hot summers then or is that my memory playing tricks.
I spent a lot of time at Streatham Ice Rink, learning to skate at about seven, also next door at the swimming pool, the changing rooms I seem to remember were always freezing cold.
I also cycled a lot, down to Mitcham Common round seven islands pond and up to Streatham Common, anyone remember the old cinder track in the woods at the top we used to career round? The Rookery was a favourite place, the open air theatre there was great too.
I used to be envious of my cousins who lived here on the Isle of Wight, but I didn't appreciate the entertainment and activities that were available to me. I went to Saturday morning pictures at the ABC Streatham Hill, remember belting out the ABC Minors song and watching Nyoka the jungle girl, one of my favourites? Streatham Hill Theatre was lovely and the Locarno Ballroom when I got a bit older. Also spent a fair bit of time in the 50's at the Moo Cow coffee bar opposite the Theatre. We were only a bus ride from the city as well.
From a very young age I was, with most of my family, a supporter of Crystal Palace fair weather or foul we were there week after week, year after year. They are still "my" team although I can no longer go. "Palace Till I Die"
Remember the smell of rubber that always seemed to be in the air from P B Cows factory opposite Streatham Common? I also remember the "Pre-Fabs" on the Southside of the common after the war. Love and Best wishes to anyone who may remember me. Pat (nee Whitter) - John N Pat (Facebook)