Caterham Hill

A Memory of Caterham.

CATERHAM HILL - High Street and Chaldon Road

I lived in 20 Chaldon Road and 5-7 High Street, Caterham Hill as a young child from about 9 years old. I went to the Infant school in Chaldon Road. On Friday mornings a Siren was used to attend school, I think an air raid siren. The Boys Brigade used to meet in the evenings in the school playground. I joined the Youth Club which was held in a hall in Chaldon Road, great days and an introduction to Jazz and jiving. I spent many hours walking our dog and riding at the Riding School in Tollers Lane, Coulsdon.

My parents Robert and Olive Young bought 20 Chaldon Road in 1950 until 1959 (opposite the Infant school). It had been a Butchers Shop (I have a photo of the original shop). It was renovated by my parents and opened as a Jewelers and Fancy Goods Shop, called 'The Cameo' (again I have a photo). At some time it also sold pet food and also a variety of 'antiques'. It was sold in 1959. It is not there now as there is a new development.

In 1959-1964 they purchased 5-7 High Street then called A. H. Letch, Drapers & Outfitters (I have a photo). This was extended to include the Jewelry section. My parents sold this in 1964. A new development is there now.

Also about this time my father R. W.Young built 48 High Street where they transferred the Jewelers shop, 'The Cameo'. It was sold, and under new ownership became Elizabeth's Hairdressers. It is still there.
(Barbara Hester (nee Young) 2020