St Pauls Cray, St Paulinus Church c.1960

Photo ref: S703003

That was Mrs. Phippin. Taught needlework. I remember being told off for having too long a thread. Made me sit with my arm extended to the extent of the cotton . Mind you, I still make things out of felt that she taught me to do. Blanket stitch, chain stitch, and stuffing things with kapok. Mrs. Robshaw scared me to death! Very Welsh. I lived on St Paul's Wood Hill. Used to go and pick blackberries in Hoblingwell Wood. Walked over to the playground via the horns.

I have found 2d and 1 shilling tokens in my late mother`s personal effects that are stamped : `J. Bradshaw * St Paul`s Cray * . Does that mean anything to anyone? I`m guessing the J. Bradshaw ran some sort of arcade or fairground but that is only a guess and I`m keen to know the truth

My parents lived in Andrews close no. 4 from 1959 until 2013. Peter and Brenda cook had many friends in the area. I was born 1962 and lived at home until 1982. I went to St. Joseph's primary then St. Philomenas followed by St Bernadettes in midfield way from 1973 to 1978. Many Happy years in the area. Many friends including Martin lockhart, Denise Lockart, Wendy and Gaye and mandy and Tony cascarino. The ...see more

There were many interesting family shops in st. Paul’s Cray. The “Barnes” family own the lady and gents hairdressers. The “Blunt” family own the toy shop, he also help run the Orpington sea cadets . George Pullar ( what an appropriate name!) was the only dentist there at that time, my mother was a dental nurse there for a great many years. Jeremy Beadle (you’ve been framed presenter) as a boy lived in Leith Hill ...see more