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Your Memories

IT'S HERE!
To all users of this site there is some good news! You can now add your memories to this site and they will appear immediately. The memories below will remain on this page but you can now post to the new guestbook.

If you have recently sent a memory they are on the new guestbook.

VISIT THE GUESTBOOK


The downside:
I'm afraid there will be no one to improve your spelling, grammar and punctuation. I urge you all to take care when writing your memories as they can be difficult to read otherwise. The other downside is that you will not be able to put photographs directly on the site but it's very easy to set up a free account with online photo sharing sites such as flickr, put your photos up there and put the link in your message.

The young lad in front of the Mayor and Mayoress in the third picture is myself, in the first picture front, Susan Thompson, centre left to right are Margaret Thompson (both 35 Campbell), Sandra Sowaski (not sure of spelling of surname) (37 Campbell), Averil Humphries (34 Campbell), Rear, Leon Sowaski, Bill Humphries (34 Campbell. Pic taken ABT 1953. Last pic early 60s I think.

Bill, 68

Hi Roger, is the block called Mackay house?

Brian Smith, 71

I have just been reading everyone's memories of The White City. I grew up in Campbell House top floor with my sister Linda we had a great time growing up on the estate everyone was friendly, of course, we had our little gangs sitting outside Glad's cafe on a sunday afternoon about 20 strong all up to no good but harmless really. I told my sister to look up this site and she said no body has written anything about Campbell House, we obviously did'nt make a lasting impression so I thought I would put things right and say if anybody reading this lived in either Campbell House or Mitchell House which was opposite send a message.

Jeanne, 62

I scrolled through the memories posted. Begonia Barbera I am sure you were in my year at Hammersmith County School or was it from Victoria Junior School? You lived not far from the Askew Road am I right? We were not friends but I am sure you remember me too? I remember you had short dark hair. E MAIL ME IF YOU WANT - norastarswalker@yahoo.co.uk

Nora (O'Grady), 57

Hi Geoff, I lived in Durban house flat 22! We moved from 22 in 1957/8,then came back to 5 Durban house in the early 60s. Moved to Middx in 1973/4. My mother and father, Alice and Albert Tompkins. I remember the Newbolds, Masons, Klein's, Windsors, Blankeneses (Not the right spelling?), Hayes, Freemans, Becks.......I have looked on this site a few times it was nice to see Durban house mentioned.

Sadly mum and dad are no longer with us and my brother John died 6 years ago he was only 57. Well Geoff, don't know if your name is on the above list...Would like to know. Best wishes.

Pam, 55

Hi Phill, memories of the adventure playground. I worked as a part timer there in the early seventies and have many great memories of all the gang, big Ian Jester and all my favs Donny Mid, the Kellys, admarkos etc and great days in Folkstone. To all the mums who made the holidays the best, once in a lifetime stuff.

Chris, 55

Great times. I was there 69 to 74, great football teams, the team I played in was K Tidy A Whiteman M Cusack R Willams S Parsons L Fletcher M Davis F Nelson S Manders C Christodlo T Goeghio P Nolan S Mcbarnet D Stevenson and many more. My other mates were J Mutton G Rogers S Farndale to say a few! Can't forget chippy loaf! Kept in touch with quite a few but would be nice to hear from any one else!

Neil, 52

My family live in 59 Havelock close, we were the first Caribbean family to move in 1969, they were wonderful times that I will never forget, sadly I learn that half of my school friends that were in Canberra school/Christopher Wren school between 1974-78 has died betweem 1984/1999 if any of my friends are still alive e mail me at noelcarl42@yahoo.co.uk. I am amazed by the history of white city on this web site, thank you.

Carl Noel, 48

My father, Ted Bottrill, lived on the White City Estate during WWII and into the Fifties. He lived in Carteret House, I think. He once told me that they used to shelter in the hallway during air raids, instead of going to the public shelters. As a young man, he played for Hanwell West AFC and I have one of his trophies.

I'm sorry to say that Dad died recently, at the age of 79. If anyone has any stories about Dad, I would be very grateful if you could please contact me on ac_curtis@sky.com. Thank you.

Anita, 43

Hi June, I have heard that my brother Ted passed away last Friday [27th Nov 2009] I do believe that you knew him from the White City, Regards.

Clive Bottrill, 74

I was bourn 1948, Hammersmith hospital. Lived 44 Hudson close with Mother, two brothers Rocky and Chris and Grandfather Arthur, grand uncle Corby.
Went to Canberra school then Christopher Wren.

I live now in Amsterdam, happily married and have two grown up children from my former marriage my email- debe37@hetnet.nl
web site www.larryfranklin.nl

Would love to hear from any body from the Hudson close and surrounding area especially photos of that time, greetings to a wonderful site.

Larry Franklin, 61

I lived in Heathstan Road, over the border of Western Avenue, so was always a foreigner to my friends on the White City. I attended Bentworth Road Primary from 1949 until 1955 and then to North Hammersmith Secondary in Fulham Palace Road for one year by trolley bus. Bryony Road 1956/57 then at last to Bloemfontein Road and Christopher Wren 1957/1961. Still in touch with loads of friends from that era. Nicky McCann, John Varty, David Morris, Alan Hord, John Hankins, Ken Humphries, Henry Ford, Danny Kilgallon, Ken Samuels, Phil Day, Peter Newby, Roy Searl, Keith White. Bill Connery, Mervyn Richards, Terry Britchford. Then a few girls from Hammersmith County, Ellain Starling, Brenda Greatrix, Christine Downs.

Great Memories of Wren, a proper Comprehensive, shame about its decline. Anyone remember the story of the fire and the renaming? Trips to the General Smuts and Springbok. Vafiadis brothers barbers, Pie and Mash in Goldhawk Road, Saturdays down the market, football on the Scrubs, carry your own goalposts. Saturday nights in the Western Pub with live groups. Pub is now a DIY Store, what a waste. Savoy Cinema now dead and buried where we ran riot on a Saturday morning, more so if you managed to sneek into the balcony and pee on the kids in the stalls. Rain inside a cinema, I don't think so. Yes the best of times never to be repeated. My children think that I make my stories up when i talk to them of my time as a kid in Shepherds Bush. But I know they are real and I am thankful for them.

Does anyone out there Remember JACKS CAFE on the Western Avenue opposite the White City Stadium. Best Tizer Float ever. Minding Cars (what a con) for the Big Fights at White City. I could go on forever but you probably gave up the will to live from reading this long ago. Hope you had a laugh.

Anyone with any memories they wish to pass on can reach me at keithrpanther@aol.com

Keith, 65

Does anyone remember the sweet shop at the top of Bloemfontein Road in Uxbridge Road? It was called Trevors. Also the Chemist on the other side of the Uxbridge Road going towards Acton. 2 ladies worked there with unbelievable hair. They were like pantomime Dames. Their hair was about a foot high! Also Wilsons the Butchers!

Ginny, 60

My grandparents, now deceased, were from Hammersmith and then moved out to Ruislip. I'm wondering if anyone would remember them - apparently my grandfather was quite active in the community, he was a coachbuilder / furniture maker by trade. Thomas and Bettie Tolchard. Other than that I don't know anything about my family. Does anyone know how I would find a cemetary in Ruislip? My only memories are when we visited there was a park opposite their house that had a large red children's spinning top style of roundabout of an unusual design which I have never seen the likes before or since. They used to take us to the Lido and row a boat. realscape@aol.com

Jay, 39

It seems to me after reading all the wonderfull letters that it's not just me who remembers how wonderful the WC was and Micheal I have such good memories of your dad Tony Ice Cream, he always pointed to your chest and when you looked down flicked you with his finger, a very generous kind man.

Chris, 56

My family lived in 5 Hargraves house on the ground floor, and in the corner, we moved from there in the early fifties and moved to Bayswater, I left home in 1965 and moved back into the bush in 1970, and am still here in the same house, two of my early school freinds lived in the White City, M Field and J Pike we were at a boarding school in Iver Heath, Bucks...if you guys are still with us I wish you good health and long life.

Lennie, 62+

Hi everyone,
It has been some time since I contributed to the WC memories. We lived as a family of six sisters and a brother in Bentinck House starting in 1947.
I emigrated to The States in the late fifties. My family continued to live at WC for some years. Unfortunately, my only brother, Paddy Hackett died this past September. Since first hearing about WC Memories, I have enjoyed hearing of and reading about old friends from those interesting days growing up in the White City flats.
I had an opportunity to visit my family in England this past August. One day we took a tour down memory lane and visited all the former places where we had lived and White City was one of our stops. Walking around visiting the old haunts brought back many memories.

We noticed the security measures that have been taken in recent years, with railings around windows and locks on entryways. Sign of the times, I suppose. (General Smutts is still in business!)

I was wondering is anyone knew of, or remembered a friend I knew from Cormwallis House, near the new shops, her name was May Bennett. Be happy to get an update from someone. Best wishes from America.

Joan Hackett Cooke, 73

Oh Wow !!!!!! having trouble getting in to my e-mail I just put in my name Vilma Laryea and up came my, and my brothers name wayne on the White City history site. Thanks to JANET 59, from 77 Champlain House I have bounced back over 55 years! I started to make notes of all the wonderful memories, but soon found that it would take a bit more time to put down some of my thoughts,.... the flats; the shops (old and new!) the new park; school both, Canberra and Hammersmith County... so much more, and I have some photographs taken on the estate, one showing just how few cars there were, as PETER 63 notes, untill Dog Night anyway! So it was just a line to say Hi to JANET 59. PETER 63, MICHAEL 62 and the smog...ARTHUR 67 and the Hop pickers.....

I lived at 49 Hastings House. My Mum is English and my Dad was from Ghana, we were one of the first mixed race families on the estate in 1951, I think. My Dad was in Show Business, he was a 'Fire Eater' and we had Snakes at the flat sometimes..... any one remember us? I have an elder brother Tony 67, and a younger sister Karine, who also went to Hammersmith County. I went to see Jeff Kissoon (Christopher Wren) in a play only last week, and spent ages chatting about the 'Drama Group' and Miss Douglas, Mr Rickman, Mr Tannich, and Mr Michell! Cant wait to find some photos.....till then all best,

Vilma, 60

Thanks Jim McCallum 72, I have checked on Friends Reunited but there don't seem to be many pictures for Sir Christopher Wren the time my dad was there (1957-60).
I'm still looking for photos of my Dad at school, preferably class photos, for his 65th birthday in December.
He was also at Oxford Gardens around 1949-56. So if anyone had any school photos from there that would be great too!

Jess, 27

Anyone live in Durban House? I lived in numbers 22 and 24 from 1958 till 1973.

Geoff, 51

Hi Alf, you said you lived in Mackay House, what number? I lived no 61.

Brian Smith, 71

Hi, I have already written about my younger life in 61 Champlain House. From 1948 - 1968. My name then was Susan Peirce, if you remember me please get in touch, I would love to hear from you: sandb@gotadsl.co.uk

Susan, 61

Hi June,I did play football with Dennis, in one game we were playing Dennis had his leg broken, we all thought he was joking but it turned out he had so off to Du Cane Road Hospital to have it fixed, my brother Ted was also playing in that game. Nice to hear from you.

Clive, 74

Hi Dave (53),
I was at Christopher Wren school from 1968-74, and was there for the opening of the new 6th form block in 1973, which we shared with Hammersmith County. Great times, wouldn't have missed that last year for the world!

I think the decision was made to merge the two schools in the early 80s, with the new mixed-sex school now called 'Hammersmith'. This proved an ill-fated venture.

Some time in the mid-80s somebody set fire to part of the school (the art block, I think) and it had to be demolished.

I vividly recall 'The Mail On Sunday' carrying a damning double page spread about Hammersmith School in the late 80s, under the large banner headline 'THE WORST SCHOOL IN BRITAIN'.

It made you wonder just what the hell was going on there. I think Head Masters in this period included the Science teacher, Mr. Gordon (nice guy) and John 'Garth' Powell, the P.E. teacher (tough guy).

The school continued to attract adverse publicity and the powers-that-be in the education authorities decided that drastic action was needed. So, some time in the first half of the 90s the decision was made to re-launch the school as 'PHOENIX' (appropriately enough, from the ashes.)

A large salary was made available to attract the high-profile super-head William Atkinson as a trouble shooter. By all accounts he has turned the school around. He is very much a presence and is still to be seen standing on the island pavement, monitoring the behaviour of his charges as they descend on the shops and bus stop at the end of the school day.

What a contrast to our old Headmaster, Mr. Hooton, who was a remote and nigh-on invisible character; only ever seen when he donned his robes for the weekly main assembly in the Great Hall. He seemed to have such a small, squeaky voice that barely carried.

Given that there was something sphinx-like about Mr. Hooton in his enigmatic inscrutability, how appropriate then that a wag from A1 should christen him 'Hootonkhamen' (c. Martin Exall - genius.) His office was, of course, the 'Tomb of Hootonkhamen'...

Deputy Head and Head of Maths, George Carter, was an entirely different proposition. A brash, overbearing Cockney cheeky chappy who liked to present himself as the local (North Kensington) boy made good. 'You, too, can be like me!', he would regularly boast. As if we'd want to be!

I can only remember two things from his lessons (having had to suffer him for two whole years...) He would always have 'D.O.T.A.A.T' written up on the blackboard - Do One Thing At A Time. (Why, then, did we always have to do those dreaded Simultaneous Equations, if that was the case?)

Also, whenever he used something as an example in a sum it was invariaby a GUDGEON!! A rather obscure fish, methinks. It was such a standing joke that my mate Tony ,in a flash of inspiration, drew a superb cartoon parody featuring 'St. George' (in appropriate attire) slaying the mighty Gudgeon. We were certainly an inventive bunch.

I must confess, George Carter was my bete noire. Once he even stood me in front of the Maths class and asked them if I was on drugs - probably because my eyes would glaze over in his Maths lessons! Also, I could be sitting quietly in a lesson in the Bryony building with mayhem going on all around, yet Georgie boy would look in, pick me out and drag me over to his office in the main building for the 'hairdryer treatment'. It was a good job I had a sense of humour.

Sometimes, I would seek refuge and empathy with my form teacher and fellow George 'fan', Carol Amies - now Carol Klein of 'Gardener's World' fame. I think I had a bit of a crush on her: I remember presenting her with the box of chocolates that I had been given for good work by Mr. Halski, the old Polish History teacher.

Anyway, I've gone on for long enough. Any Wren memories out there?

John, 53

Attended Hammersmith County School 1963 - 1968ish.

Lived at 35 St Elmo Road, known as the white house. My eledest sister Cathy died 3 years ago. Mary middle sister is married and happy. Surname was O'Grady. My sisters also attended Hammersmith County School. Where are you Tony Chuch? I remember being told that my photo was up in the boys school lockers along with friend Maureen Allen. We were apparently the Pin Ups. Miss my time at Hammersmith County. I left school with no exams, bullied out of school. I am now a Manager of an Estate Agent so I didnt do too bad. I have 3 children, Natasha married with 2 children, Stephen who is an actor dancer and backs Girls Aloud and Ashlie who is an actress. Love to hear from anyone out there that remember us.

Nora, 57

I lived in a number of blocks on the estate, Champlain House and Batman Close but my fondest memories were at my Nan's in Hargraves House, I still live in Hargraves to this day. I went to Canberra and Christopher Wren which changed to Hammersmith and my family have lived on the estate since the 50s. Our name is Walsh and there were a number of us, my Dad Pat, uncle Tom, Chris, Joe and Danny and my aunt Eileen.

I am suprised the adventure playground doesn't have its own feature as when I was growing up in the 70s and 80s it was a major part of our lives as well as the red ash football pitch.

Philip, 39

Hammersmith County Secondry School, friends Ruth Thomas, Jennifer Williams, Marie Martin, Maureen Allen.

Memories lots really would love to speak to Ruth Thomas - lived along the Uxbridge Road.

Where have you all gone - what are you doing - norastarswalker@yahoo.co.uk

Love to hear from you - Vivien Smyth if i remember was in our class - and Marureen Norman, Veronica McDermonant, June Crowland who was deaf and her hearing aid would always whistle,Cristine Pile - where you in our class. I remember our English Teacher leaving and become an air hostess broke my heart.

It would be nice to hear from any of the old class.

Went to Hammersmith County School, and Victoria Infants School, Askew Road, W12

Nora (O’Grady), 57

To Reginald 79. Are you Reggie Webb?

If you are you must remember Pat, Tom and little Georgie Alderman!! We lived at 34 directly under you on the first floor.

George, 72

I am approaching my 60th bithday 2010, and been going down memory lane, reading peoples memories of life around the White City. I came across this site purely by accident, and glad I did, I went to Wormholt Park school and was friends with Barbara Lampey, Susan Allison and Corrine Morrison all living on the Wormholt Estate, or peabody.

Went to Hammersmith County, in 1961, being in 1-3 Miss Hydes Class. I enjoyed my years at HcS, and I am hoping someone will remember me. I had a liking for impersonating the teachers, my favourites being Miss Bedworth, who used to fiddle with her beads, nerves I should think. If we were naughty, we would get an imposition does anyone out there no what that was? Moving on to Miss Blundstone our French teacher, apparently she knew what we were doing without looking at us, how incredible. Miss Edwards the Art teacher, Miss Levy History, all these were targets of my mimicry. Does anyone remember my show in the hall, end of term entertainment I think it was, when I performed my impersonations, Linda Ellery helped me with my props. I didn't continue this showbiz, I worked in a bank!

I do remember the lady down the market, two bob a large shopping bag, also Prince Monalooloo he wore a feather headdress and his war cry was I've got a horse. Hope someone will contact me my maiden name was Parkins. hammond4ex@btinternet.com

Gillian, 59

In reply to Mary 70, I also went to St Edmunds in Fulham, so we may have known each other, I lived in Bentinck House, White City in the 40s and 50s, with my parents and six siblings, my sisters and I would catch the trolley bus to Hammersmith, and walk down Fulham Palace Road to school, the head teachers were Miss Wilson and Dr Crean, I remember a Miss De Luka, and the art Teacher Miss Louis, I wonder if we knew each other Mary.

Mary, 71

To Clive who was asking about Teddy Hicks. No I am not his sister. Teddy lived in Phipps House as did I, but we are not related. I was one of four Hicks's - Dennis Joyce, Doreen and myself.

June, 72

It has been great reading people's memories of White Cite Estate. Like most of the people on this estate had a great childhood and loved living on the estate. I spent two periods of my cildhood on White City Estate. The first was between 1954-1959 when we lived in the prefabs in Australia Road, opposite Livingstone School. They were great places to live in with lots of fitted cupboards, a coal fire and a garden all around. Memories I have of that period include many hours spent around Cornwallis with Chrissie and Lemmy Arnold. I can remember a Bernard who had a sister I was friendly with. She and I both got stung by wasps when we disturbed a wasps nest (my first encounter with a wasp, been terrified of them ever since).We used to put shows on on the steps of Cornwallis. We would practice for hours and then charge a penny for anyone who wanted to sit on the steps and watch the show. We spent most of our days skipping, playing two balls, roller skating or making games out of any junk we found.

Lots of the parents in the area used to do homework, one of their jobs was to paint the markings on plastic farm animals. The rag and bone man used to come and give us little gifts for a bundle of rags. On the days the Rangers played the roads become full of supporters cars and we used to ask if we could look after the cars. We could make sixpence if we were lucky. But at half time we were allowed into the grounds for nothing so forgot about the cars we were supposed to be 'minding'. We also collected empty bottles and took them back to the Smuts to collect the threepence on them. I went to Ellerslie Road School. People I remember from school are Audrey and Ian Starling, Jack Rouse, Sidney Cole, Sally Howes (my best friend), Dave King, Georgina Dawson and Beryl Moss. We moved to Bentworth Road when I was 10 but returned to the Estate about two years later. I have another set of memories of that period, my teenage years, which I will share at another time.

June, 60

It has been great reading people's memories of White Cite Estate. Like most of the people on this estate had a great childhood and loved living on the estate. I spent two periods of my cildhood on White City Estate. The first was between 1954-1959 when we lived in the prefabs in Australia Road, opposite Livingstone School. They were great places to live in with lots of fitted cupboards, a coal fire and a garden all around. Memories I have of that period include many hours spent around Cornwallis with Chrissie and Lemmy Arnold. I can remember a Bernard who had a sister I was friendly with. She and I both got stung by wasps when we disturbed a wasps nest (my first encounter with a wasp, been terrified of them ever since).We used to put shows on on the steps of Cornwallis. We would practice for hours and then charge a penny for anyone who wanted to sit on the steps and watch the show. We spent most of our days skipping, playing two balls, roller skating or making games out of any junk we found.

Lots of the parents in the area used to do homework, one of their jobs was to paint the markings on plastic farm animals. The rag and bone man used to come and give us little gifts for a bundle of rags. On the days the Rangers played the roads become full of supporters cars and we used to ask if we could look after the cars. We could make sixpence if we were lucky. But at half time we were allowed into the grounds for nothing so forgot about the cars we were supposed to be 'minding'. We also collected empty bottles and took them back to the Smuts to collect the threepence on them. I went to Ellerslie Road School. People I remember from school are Audrey and Ian Starling, Jack Rouse, Sidney Cole, Sally Howes (my best friend), Dave King, Georgina Dawson and Beryl Moss. We moved to Bentworth Road when I was 10 but returned to the Estate about two years later. I have another set of memories of that period, my teenage years, which I will share at another time.

June, 60

At last we had a place of our own, albeit a rented one, no more sharing facilities. The flat was on the third floor at 83 Champlain House and consisted of a front room, two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen, a separate toilet and a small balcony at the back of the flat. The only shared facility was the laundry room where mother could do our washing and dry our clothes in comparative comfort. No need for damp washing hanging over the kitchen stove any more. It was also a place where mother could have a chinwag with the other women.

My school, Bentworth Road Junior, was just across the Westway, now the A40, from the estate. I soon settled into my new school and was very happy, but our lessons were being interrupted as the daylight air raids had started. The school had been having air raid drill for about two months prior to the air raids.

The school was most fortunate in having a large cellar, which had previously been reinforced and adapted for use as an air raid shelter. As the air raids became more intense we were, spending almost as much time in the cellar as the classroom. The teachers were most concerned about our safety, but for us kids it was a very exciting time.

When the air raid sirens sounded, the school bell would ring and we would make out way down to the shelter, taking our gas masks and a book with us, so we could at least have a reading lesson. The space in the shelter was very limited so there was no room for desks or even a blackboard. The shelter was oblong in shape with a low ceiling and benches along each wall facing each other.

The books we would have been reading at the time were either Black Beauty by Anna Sewell, Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame or Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe, my particular favourites, but there were several more. The daylight raids would never last too long, the all clear siren would sound, the school bell would ring and we would all troop back to our classrooms, only to have our lessons interrupted once again.

The White City Stadium, had, in its time, played host to many events, mainly sporting. The Olympic Games in 1908, followed in later years by greyhound racing, athletics, boxing, speedway racing, horse of the year show, and even football, Q.P.R used the stadium for their home fixtures for a couple of seasons. But in 1940 it was put to a very different use.

The evacuation from Dunkirk took place between May 26th and June 2nd, when over 210,000 British troops and 112,000 allied troops, mainly French, were rescued from the beaches. Several hundred of the French troops were billeted in the stadium until a more suitable place could be found for them. Some used to visit our local swimming baths where they would throw pennies into the pool, for us to retrieve from the bottom. A fun way to get pocket money.

Attending school during the war was somewhat a hit and miss affair. We were told by the authorities we should not attend school if an air raid was in progress, but stay at home and take shelter, and attend school after dinner, provided there was no air raid in progress. There were no school dinners provided, so we would go home for our midday meal. Mother was a very good cook and would provide lovely wholesome and delicious meals, nothing fancy, but good old English food, such as cottage pie, toad in the hole, sausage and mash, rabbit stew, meat pie and my favourite cheese and potato pie, we would always have a roast dinner on Sundays. Afters when we had them would be spotted dick, suet pudding covered in golden syrup, rhubarb and custard, apple dumplings, homemade rice pudding with a nice brown skin on top.

During July and August the daylight raids, in the main, had been directed at airfields, coastal installations, and shipping in the English Channel, but on August 8th the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) launched and even greater attack on these targets. This was the start of the Battle of Britain, with the daylight raids now being directed at London and the south east of England as well.

We really now did feel that we were at war. Us kids viewed the war as one big adventure, but for our parents, particularly our mothers it was a constant worry. What with the air raids, their concern for our safety, and the rationing, it just amounted to one big headache.

Ration books were issued at the beginning of the year, and the first foods to be rationed were sugar, butter and bacon, followed by meat, and later in the year, tea, margarine and cheese, almost all other foods were in short supply, except vegetables and bread which the government were encouraging people to eat more. Everyone in the country had to be registered with a grocer and butcher to obtain their registered foods. I sometimes used to go down to the grocers shop, with mother, in Shepherds Bush Market to get the rations in on a Saturday morning. There was a shop in the market selling horse-meat, supposedly for peoples pets, a notice in the shop stated not for human consumption. Mother did wonder whether people bought it to supplement their meagre meat ration.

Reginald, 79

Hello Marje,I've got a lot of great memories of spending lunchtimes down at Gees yard. I lived on Gravesend Road with my parents Wally and Marie and my brother Peter. Wormholt park was agreat park to grow up so close to, lots of facilities for all the sports seasons kept in a sports hut, with excellent coaches always prepared to help and play any of the games (often 20/30 aside). The Heath family in Rhodes House started a football team up called Christian who were very successful locally and kept us occupied. The Wormholt youth club was a terrific club as well. I went to Clement Danes and remember having to fight for my life when going to and from school with the Wren boys. First pint in the Springbok light and bitter 36p bought for me by Mark Lovell who got served because he wore glasses!! go figure. Austin ran it then and some of the regulars are still some of the funniest people I've ever met, June and Cheka Ingrams, Harry Edmunds, the Friar (Michael Burns) and my first love bite after a White City youth club disco. Mum still lives there, too many memories for her to move now. Great site but we need a few younger contributors.

Wal, 48

Jess 27. Have you tried Friends Re-united? They have old school photo's on there. The site is free.

JIm McCallum, 72

I have been reading and enjoying letters from lots of you who went to nearby schools at White City but my school St. Edmunds in Fulham was full of White city children but I have not found one letter from any of you. Come on White City past pupils let's be hearing from you.

Mary, 70

What an amazing site. Living history recorded as it should be.

I was born in Hammersmith Hospital - always told I'd end up next door, but proved Mum wrong so far. Lived off Goldhawk Road and went to Westfield Infants, Miles Coverdale and Christopher Wren before moving to North London in 1970. What the hell happened I can't find any reference on the net to Christopher Wren at all. I assume it metamorphised into Phoenix at some stage but when did that happen? Anybody able to fill in the gaps?

Dave, 53

What a great site, I lived at number 61 Champlain House from 1948/1968. I got married in 1968 in the church next to Champlain. Sorry to say a lot of my memories are not so clear, I do remember the General Smuts and The Springbok Pubs. I also remember the bonfires and those bangers the boys would put on the end of long wires and chase the girls. I can still hear my heart pounding from the fright of it all. I partly remember a youth club I used to go to, I can remember the discos and being walked home by certain boys, but I cannot remember the name of the club. I also remember the pram sheds in the middle of the flats, I remember climbing up on them and never being able to get down without a grown up's help. Tony bros ice cream and the fresh fish van on a Sunday, we always had winkles so we made a winkle sandwich for sunday tea. The black eye that would be removed before taking out the winkle I would put on my face to pretend I had a beauty spot.

Never needed much to make us happy, hula hoops, rounders, knocking dollies out of bed, hopscotch, jack and five stones, all very simple. Waving to friends opposite and I think that must have been Grey House. Also remember my Mum saying that "This is my week for doing the stairs". Out would come the bucket and brush and the smell of disinfectant and she would scrub those stairs. We had a little balcony at the back of our flat that looked onto green and the other side of Champlain House.

Hammersmith county school, all I remember is when approaching the school that is when I would put my school hat on, the rest of the time it was in my bag. On the way home from school the fresh fish shop, I would once a week have to stop there and get "A nice pair of kippers" for my Mum, she always said "now make sure they are nice" and pay no more than 1 shilling and 9 pence. Would I ever know if they where nice or not??? Happy days. Would love to hear from anyone my email is sandb@gotadsl.co.uk

From Sue (PEIRCE)

Susan (Sue), 61

I remember going to Hammersmith High school in the 80s. It was fun, enjoyed every bit of it. I still wonder where all my classmates are now. I live in the USA now.

Zorica, 42

Hi Colin (59)
I went to Christopher Wren where your Dad (Arthur Jefferson) took us for football. He is very fondly remembered. I also used to play football at Canberra school on Monday nights in the 70s and 80s, which were supervised by your Dad.

I actually wrote a full tribute to him in an issue of the QPR fanzine, A Kick Up The R's (issue 92). If you're interested, it is still on the internet - A Kick Up The R's Old Stuff. It was most easily accessible through following the links on the blog 'QPR REPORT', which ran down the left side of their site. However, annoyingly, these seem to have been removed recently! There is a website for the article in question (titled 'ARTHUR JEFFERSON'). It is (wait for it....) http://web.archive.org/web/1990218151414/ www.qpr.org/akutrs/oldarticles.html Alternatively, 'AKUTRS Articles' on google might bring it up. It was a bit trial and error, but I got there eventually! Incidentally, in trying to find this article, I brought up a Fish and Chips website which contained a picture of your Dad serving customers in his shop near the ground (South Africa Road?)

I bet your Dad would have had a few things to say about some of the modern footballers - divers and the like.

John, 52

I'm looking for a photo of my Dad at school, he was born in December 1944 and so I think he would have been at Sir Christopher Wren between 1956 and 1960. If anyone has any old class photos from this time it would be great!

Jess, 27

I was at Hammerersmith County between 1963 and 1968, my closet friends were Pat Payne and Catherine Taylor anyone who can remember us please let us know.

Begonia Barbera, 57

White city... university of life. l lived in Bloemfontein Ave, brother Alan, sister Linda, mum, dad was Arthur Jefferson.

Lovely memories of the bush, nice to read about Danny Kilgallon, Lenny Cole..sorry to hear about the python, Maureen.

Lenny when you were manager of white city colts we did'nt have a match ball, QPR played at home Sat...suddenly we have a match ball.. can you clear it up!

Anybody heard of Johnny bang bang's deputy 'Ginger'. Anybody seen the 'colonel' Terry Paine, yes the one who's braces broke on Kew Bridge...Glad's cafe after a QPR game. 'Back to Glad's for coffee'...it tasted vile but too frightened to complain we drank it. As we left she showed us the rum bottle.

Colin, 59

I have noted a letter from June Hicks, are you the sister of Teddy Hicks who lived in Phipps House? Also Freddy Shakalls who stayed with us during the blitz. Hi to Mike Rippon, how's your swing going if you are playing, have you heard from Harry Norris yet?

Clive, 74

Hello, Very interesting memories, I enjoyed reading them. I help run a QPR fans Website and apart from articles on the Rangers,I also have a West London History Page. I'm not from the White City, I originally came from Rylett Road. My late father was in the local ARP before he joined the Army and he told me about the time 'The Sun' in Askew Road was bombed. I would like to do an article about the pub for the Website and if anyone would like to contribute a few of their memories I would be very grateful. All the best.
srussell@harrow.ac.uk
www.indyrs.co.uk

Steve, 57

I lived in Lawson House from 1944-1967, does anybody have photos of the coronation parties in the playground? I now live in Australia, strange that for all those years I lived in Australia Road!

John, 65

I didn't live on the estate but went to Christopher Wren from 1954-57. We were the first intake into the newly built school. I remember Britton, we were always fighting. His family owned Sunny Stores in the market. There was Brian Coward, John Broom, Jimmy Hunt, George Harris and a little fellow named Levy. I lived in Paddington and travelled on the trolley bus to Scrubs Lane, then a bus down to Hammersmith Hospital and then over the footbridge to Bloemfontein Road. The school was a revelation after all the Victorian dumps we were used to. Clean, shiny, bright and we went out to the "quad" not the playground. I remember Mr. Wells, we were horrible to him and he was a really nice bloke. Sorry Sir!

I remember the open air pool, we thought it was brilliant. I also remember a girl named Kit from the girls school. My first real passion. I am a QPR season ticket holder but commute from Bedfordshire for the pain of watching rubbish! Ah well, nobody forces me to be loyal to them, I just wish it were a two way street. Still, I have very fond memories of Christopher Wren and don't regret a day of it.

Terry, 67

I used to live at 2 Bloemfontein Avenue in the Twenties and Thirties and my father, George Reeb used to work at Pinewood Studios as a electrician. He retired at 74(!) in the Sixties but when I was a little girl he would sometimes take me with him where I said 'hello' to the likes of Laurel and Hardy, Charlie Chaplin and many other great stars of the day. I moved to the Isle of Wight at the beginning of the war but I used to go to a school which was up a turning left past the Lido walking up from the Uxbridge Road. I think the school backed onto Wormholt Park. Anyway, for the life of me, I can't remember its name. Any clues from the older generation? You can contact me at spilliow1@btinternet.com. Thank you all so much.

Thelma, 90

I am in touch with Jean Tolchard who lived in the Shepherds Bush area, and went to North Hammersmith secondary girls school. She also worked for Napiers in Acton in the fifties. She is now living in California and would like to hear from any one who may remember her from school or work. If you do and would like to get in touch with her, let me know on my e-mail number g.aldermen1@ntlworld.com

George, 71

It's good to see so many old friends still knocking about, Harry Norris writes about the time we got sent home from the trip to Belgium and I still remember the ferry boat name it was the Koning Albert, I see Mike Rippon has been in touch with a few old mates, it's nice to see so many of them are still kicking. my email clivesydney@live.co.uk

Clive Bottrill, 74

Hi Ken Sharpe, Thanks for your big hello Ken I don't think I knew you personally, but it was interesting to hear news of the Proyers. I only knew two of them, Eve and Jean. I believe I was only 11 or 12 when I met Eve and instantly fell in love with her and for a while we had an intense friendship which lasted quite a while. Alas it was not to be and eventually we went our seperate ways. However I will always remember her with affection. As I said, I don't think wou and I ever met but I went to Bentworth Road infants school and at 11 went to St. Clement Danes and was evacuated for a time to Oxford. Let me know if any of this rings a bell and in the meantime all the best to you.

Jack, 78

Just want to say - what a fantastic site this is. I don't come from White City and was researching my uncle, Les Baker who used to have a greengrocers in Leopold Street, Wimbledon. Anyone remember.

Ron, 66

I am so happy that I found this site. I have laughed and cried at some of the memories. Jonny bang bang. Nanny no nose who lived in the prefabs. Les the milkman. Fr. Daniels married me, we were the first couple to marry in the new church, there was still rubble in the entrance of the church seen in our wedding photo's. I married Noel Ahearne. He was one of the mods that used to race round the estate on his lambretta, with all the lamps he could fit on it. Does any one remember tapping the phones at either end of the shops near the smuts.

My friends were Marie O'Shea, Mary Mcguire, Sonia Cerisola, Linda Ling. My sister is Brenda Seward. Does any one remember me?

I forgot to say that I lived in Davis House, with my sister Brenda and brother Freddie. Overlooking the Springbok pub. Near the NEW PARK why did we call it that? I have so many memories but have old timers at the moment and can't remember any hahahah. I do remember being in love with Broderick Cook, I wonder where he is now? Cyril Fynn, John and Pascal Farrell, Barbara Davies, Mary Molinero, Jennifer Shadbolt, I never thought I would get over Jennifer moving from the estate. Peter and Paul Hyde. Just thought of the market and the lady calling out: two bob a shopping bag, does any one remember that? Playing runouts at Mackay House. Yes, the pie and mash shop on a Saturday. When I first found this site and started to read I felt so so sad. It made me cry thinking of the good times spent there. Not knowing what life had in store!!!!!

Linda Seward (now Ahearne), 62

I am so happy that I found this site. I have laughed and cried at some of the memories. Jonny bang bang. Nanny no nose who lived in the prefabs. Les the milkman. Fr. Daniels married me, we were the first couple to marry in the new church, there was still rubble in the entrance of the church seen in our wedding photo's. I married Noel Ahearne. He was one of the mods that used to race round the estate on his lambretta, with all the lamps he could fit on it. Does any one remember tapping the phones at either end of the shops near the smuts.

My friends were Marie O'Shea, Mary Mcguire, Sonia Cerisola, Linda Ling. My sister is Brenda Seward. Does any one remember me?

Linda, 62

Hello Clive, nice to hear from old friends from the past. Yes, we had a good old time on the Belgium trip but got sent home early for bad behaviour probably being over boisterious or such like, nothing like nowadays bad behaviour!! I did two years National Service in the RAF mostly in Birmingham 54/55 got married 1957 to Alice she was one of the click, she was friendly with the Hackett family who used to live in Brisbane House, their brother Paddy used to play football with us at times.

Lived in London Acton for about 20 years till kids had grown up then ended up here in Surrey not too far from kids (3) and grandchildren(4). Alice remembers you as having very fair hair and somtimes wore a navy blue mac!! She has a good memory. My brother Frank lives in Essex. Nice to hear from you where did all the years go? Pass my regards to the other old mates.

Harry, 73

Arthur, I started my first job, leaving Hammersmith County school in 1959, at Rolls Royce Hythe Road. I lived just up the road at College Park.I was a typist in the accounts office and met my future husband Dave there. He was an apprentice fitter.

Eileen, 66

It is with deep regret that I learned that Fred Riley (EM RILEY and SONS GREENGROCERS) had passed away on 10th April 2005. He was a wonderful character who was born in Marylebone on 9TH November 1932. He was married to Shirley and had three sons, Tony, Martin and Lee. He ran the greengrocers and was latterly joined by two sons Martin and Lee.

Sorry about bringing this sad news. It was terrific characters like Fred who helped make the White city such an enjoyable and memorable place for so many people.

May I personally extend my sympathies to his family.

Colin, 53

Hello, Jean Proyer My brother Ted Bottrill, used to knock around with Alf Stacey, Eddie Bond and Jimmy Wyatt. I do remember well, the man who called out....it goes, 2p pint vinegar, soda, was 2lb for Tuppence halfpenny. Salt 1d a lump. He came round the flats every week, I think he came from Latimar Road..Does anybody know of Winnie Johnson, or sister Amy. Lorrie Marmont, and brother Roy.

Hi Harry, I do remember the trip to Belgium and the ferry that we sailed on, it was called the Koning Albert, we had a cracking time smoking their rubbish fags. I am in touch with Lenny Tremlett. It's good to hear from a few of us such as Mike Rip, Don Clark I wonder where Ron Palmer got to. Harry where are you on the planet. Len, Don and myself on the south coast.

Clive, 73

Hi all. It's me again. A big hello to John (Jack) Faid. I knew all the Proyer family - some info for you. Jimmy Proyer one of my best friends died some years ago. Eve Proyer moved to Canada. If you scroll down through the pages of this site there is a photo of Lily (Lila) Proyer on her bike. John, I am still in touch with a few people of our age group. Best wishes to you all.

Ken Sharpe, 78

Hi John 52,
I had trouble reading your article due to the constant guffaws and cognitive memories you returned to me. Thank you. How can any one follow memories like that.

I remember that when I was growing up my brother Clive used to own a Lambretta Scooter and he, as most mods of the time kitted it out as expected. Clive was a regular visual feature around the estate and used to put on his customary green anorak with the fur hood and get onto his decorated bike. His bike had its own features such as a 6 foot ariel whosd sole purpose was to carry flags. The luggage rack at the front with as many lights on it as possible. The lights all worked, however, keeping them on for any reasonable time without the engine running would drain the battery really fast. I would also remember having to try and kick start the engine and damaging my ankles or pushing him around to the courtyard to start the bike - no automatic engine starters for scooters in those days.

I also remember getting a pint of petrol (which was all we could afford) and putting it into a milk bottle grabbed from a doorstep on route and paying the princely sum of 6 old pence. Can you imagine doing that these days.

Parts for the cars used to be from three main suppliers, the first being Ford (Anglia, Cortinas, Capri and Consoles) which came from J R Radford, at the back of the Uxbridge Road, The second Britich Leyland (Austin and Morris 1100, Mini etc) from Bloemfontein Avenue, and finally the third Rootes (Sunbeam, Talbots etc) from Scrubs Lane. Enough memories from me, have fun and take care.

Colin, 53

I started school just after the war my primary school was St. Stephens, Uxbridge Road. I had a dear friend there Janet Atkins. We both moved on to North Hammersmith School for Girls White City in the 1950s. My family lived around the area but not in White City. Janet lived at 7 Warbeck Road she went on to Art College in Lime Grove.
Other girls I remember are Anita Bryant, Jill Willeby, Barbara Kent and Jean Gore. It would be great to trace any of these girls.
The school is now Hammersmith County it was one of the first comprehensive schools. I am very grateful to Miss Lacy who was headmistress at that time and all the teachers for the fine teaching ground work they gave me to widen my expectations of life.
After living abroad for half of my life I returned to the U.K. last year. I visited the new Shopping Mall in Shepherds Bush. I walked along Uxbridge Road passed St. Stephens School into Warbeck Road then through onto Goldhawk Road, my grandad had a shop 126 Goldhawk Road the family lived there with him during the war. The parade of shops are now a block of flats. We used to enjoy shopping in Shepherds Bush Market and playing on the green. Likewise the open-air pool in White City. The area seems alien to me now, gone is the feeling of hope of better things to come, the feeling I felt as a child and teenager is alas no more, but I have them locked in my memories.

Georgina (Gina), 68

I never lived on the Estate but used to deliver morning and Sunday papers around some of the blocks. I lived on the other side of Westway in Heathstan Road - no.103. I had many friends on the Estate including my first girlfriend who lived in Blaxland House. Her name was Eve Proyer, she had an older sister called Jean. Wonderful people who I frequently think of after all these years. These events were taking place somewhere between 1943 and 1945.

John (Known as Jack) Faid, 78

Hi Michele, Thanks for putting on the photos of your parents selling Tony Bros ice cream. I am in second photo and am in the front holding on to a push chair. I think the blonde girl standing next to me is Florrie Bruce, but can't be certain. I will get in touch with her to find out.
I think I must have been about 13 at the time. It is the first time I have ever seen that picture. Tony Bros ice cream was the best ever and was an absolute treat after the war years. I have looked carefully through the photos, but can't recognise anybody. Anyway thanks again for putting them on WWC and I am going to try and print the picture.

June (nee Hicks), 72

Hi Ruth (60) Interesting to read your memories of the children's playground in Hammersmith Park (or 'New Park' as it was still referred to for most of the 60s). Your reference to the football pitch as 'The Rubber' indicates to me that you were working there in a later period than my own personal recollections. To those of a similar vintage to me it is forever immortalised as the 'Red Ash'.
I don't recall you, Ruth, but I certainly recall Mrs.Tipping, whose domain this was for many a long year. Do you, or anyone else out there, recall her? Or perhaps she was your predecessor? She was a rather severe lady who wouldn't put up with any nonsense from the kids (whom I always felt she rather disapproved of..)
Whilst on the subject of the park, the lawns used to be kept in absolutely immaculate condition when I was a kid back in the 60s. Little wonder, really: you weren't allowed on the grass! If you trespassed by as much as an inch, the parkies, in their long macs and peaked caps, would come and chase you off and give you a stern ticking off into the bargain. God, they were red hot, even innocent toddlers never escaped their wrath!
Looking back, it all seems rather over-the-top now, but they had standards to maintain. We all saw the outcome when these were allowed to slip, both in the Park and on the Estate after the LCC transferred the management of it to Hammersmith Council.
Finally, does anyone recall the very high slide that existed in Wormholt Park up until about the mid-60s? I can remember as a little kid how dangerous it seemed and, indeed, I believe the authorities got rid of it after a tragedy occurred on it.

John, 52

I did not live in White City but went to Wren 68-72 in Gibbons house, was in B3 form, I remember teachers such as Toms, Hooton, Mr. Wall, Mr Powell, learning rugby at Warren Farm with Mr. Jefferson, still have a season ticket at QPR, and have a pre-match drink at Smuts, can remember third year trip to Marchants hill, has anyone been in Wren school recently, I looked round the outside recently. Pie and mash shop and Zippys one of the few places still left from my youth.

Steve, 51

Some great memories evoked by Colin, 53, formerly of Havelock Close.

Charlie Ferris!!! I certainly remember him from when I was a kid back in the 1960's. Charlie was something of a Walter Mitty character, with entrepreneurial delusions. I can still see Charlie in the sheepskin coat that had seen better days, the trilby hat and those black, beetle eyebrows. He spoke with the conspiratorial manner of a spiv who was trying to sell you some knocked-off gear. Charlie, I imagine had probably aspired to being a bit of a wide boy in his time, no doubt unsuccessfully. Charlie always used to take his two dogs around with him. I remember he would try to get his poor old mongrels to race each other down the slope of the subway on the Westway, whilst enquiring of his audience of kids, 'Who's your tanner on?' Whether Charlie ever managed to run a book on his mutts I'll never know.

Then there was the occassion in the late 60's when Charlie put the word out amongst the kids of the estate that there was to be a big football competition on the 'Red Ash' with a trophy for the winners. The word spread like wildfire until it seemed all the boys on the Estate were there. Charlie was in his element, giving it large. The ramshackle tournament seemed to go on all day but, alas, no trophy was forthcoming; to the considerable, collective pique of the eventual winners. I remember Charlie being verbally assailed by irate kids as he beat his hasty retreat from the 'Red Ash' in the direction of White City Station. When I think of this scene it always puts me in mind of the episode from Mark Twain's classic novel 'The Adventures Of Huckleberry Finn', whereby the silver-tongued conmen 'The Duke' and 'The King' are run out of town by an angry mob of the local townsfolk. Charlie at least escaped their fate of a tarring and feathering.

Either way, that's the last time I recall seeing Charlie Ferris. It would be circa 1969, I would say. My mum remembered him from when she lived in Paddington prior to moving to White City. He was just the same over there in the 1950's, apparently; always ducking and diving, dreaming up some elaborate scheme. Where did he live and what became of him? Has anyone else got any recollections of this archetypal 'Dodgy Geezer'?

Also, I remember Mr.Haycock, the trilby-wearing old gentleman who collected the HP payments for Lawsons. The store must have furnished a considerable amount of the Estate on tick. That was the only way we could afford it. None of us had much back then.

John, 52

To John McCann, still can't email you, tried the recent one you left on this site, but no good. Try to send one to me, mo4short2000@yahoo.co.uk regards.

Maureen, 59

I worked in Hammersmith Park in the childrens playground, padding pool with stepping stones, sandpit etc. does anyone remember me! Known as Miss to the children. I lived in Rhodes house for 22 years. I don't live far from White City now. The football pitch in the park was known as the rubber.

Ruth, 60

Hi Kieron O'Brien (46)
I think it must be your sister, Anne, I was in tne 6th form with. We were the first intake for the purpose-built block (which, indeed, was still being finished off) to accommodate the joint 6th form of Christopher Wren and Hammersmith County.
I remember Anne had long(ish) dark hair and rosy cheeks. We were assigned to Mr.Jones' tutor/form group. He seemed ancient even then, but he was a lovely old feller.

I'm John. I had long dark hair back then (those were the days!) I'm still in touch with Steve, Pete, Jim and Bundy (the latter two, Anne already knew from Ellerslie.) In fact we all try and meet up for a drink at least a couple of times a year, when, of course, we swap tales of the old times.

Anne used to go around with Kathy (her best friend) and, of course, Rose (whom, she might recall, I was ever-so-slightly besotted with...)

I used to live in Mackenzie Close but now I am living all of 5 minutes away on the Westway. Anyway, just to say hello to Anne and give her my kindest regards. I have very fond memories of those times and, if she'd like to get in touch, I can always pass on my e-mail address via your good self. Cheers and best wishes to you and your family.

John, 52

Hallo Len 59. I lived at 20 Grey House, the other side of the "shute". I remember Terry and Brian very well. I remember a "mock trial" where Brian was charged with endangering low flying aircraft. Brian was very Tall! I think this was at the Rugby Club's Camp at Saint Marys Bay, New Romney and one memorable day I remember Terry having a fight with Dereck Birch, a feller 3 or 4 years older than him. I used to have nightmares thinking about it.
RE the Rugby Club, any old boys who went to the Club, might be interested in an archive held by Kensington BC...they have a rake of pictures taken by Bert Taylor, the football, cricket teams and Club camp. Be Lucky.

Tubba Cotgrave, 70

Fantastic reading about the WCE.
Hi, my name is Steve. I'm an Australian but married a girl who lived with her parents in Phipps House until they emigrated in 1964. Her name was Pamela Witham and her parents were Cornelius (known as Bob) and Muriel. Pam died 2 years ago (bloody smokes) but she often spoke of her younger years in the estate with her best friend Ita. Does anyone remember Pam? It would be nice to fill in a few gaps of her time growing up. I can be contacted on Email at windy1@starhub.net.sg

Steve, 58

Hi Len ,59. Sorry to hear about your brother. Brian. One of the twins was nicknamed "Moley"I lived opposite in Champlain House. If you you scroll down this page a fair way down now, there are a couple of photos I am sure your brothers are in it. (VE Party in the block). Best wishes to all your family.

Jim McCallum, 71

Hallo W C and Jim Mac.I remember Dereck Salt very well, mainly from around the Champlain house side. He taught me to "spit", he ccold have "gobbed" for England. Very good footballer as well. I always tried to get on his side in the games in the cage. Ican see him now and Brian Euston or "Nipper" as I knew him, because of his size I think. He had an older brother who was called nipper as well. "Memories, in the corner of my mind". Be Lucky.

Tubba Cotgrave, 70

Good to read that all the White City folks have such good memories of their time as children growing up in the flats. Sadly one of my older brothers Brian, twin of Terry Cole died a few years ago. He was a great follower of life in the area. We lived in Grey house on the groung floor, number 17, then moved upstairs to number 30. The family Terry, Sid, Len, and Mary are all heathly and still going strong. We all have good memories of the people we grew up with. It would be nice to see any photos they you may have of that special time.

Len, 59

Hello Alf (66)
I am not sure where the Johnny Miller I mentioned originated from, but here is some more information about him which might help you to decide if he is the Johnny Miller you knew. He lived in Grey House and had a twin sister called Barbara and an older brother who lived in Rhodesia. His Dad was a milkman. He went to Christopher Wren and is now aged circa 64. For many years he worked at Loftus Garage in Loftus Road by QPR. Hope this helps.

Another fond memory I have is working as a commis waiter at the White City dogs on a Thursday and Saturday evening. I could earn more there in tips than I earnt in wages at my day job before joining up. Sometimes I was even bussed over to Haringey dogs to help out there.

Happy days!!

Francis/Snowie/Snowball, 64

Does anyone remember me, Brenda, went to school at Hammersmith County. lived in Hasting House have a brother called Ron Dodd and a sister, Pauline Dodd.

Brenda Dodd, 56

To Keith 64, I revisited the old Christopher Wren site this March with my wife and was given a tour around the replacement Pheonix High School by the deputy headmaster. The Girls' side of the complex, the main hall and the dining rooms and theatre are as they were when I attended from 1957-1964 but the boys school Christopher Wren was totally destroyed in a fire. Was told by the deputy head that now only 15% of the students are now white, a very different story from when I went to school. Walked back down Bloemfontein Road, saw the site of the dreaded open air baths, now tarmacked over and walked through Shepherds Bush market where we used to walk to get the bus when I was a teenager. My wife and I were the only white faces throughout the market and we were the only people speaking English. It was a bit of a shock.

Michael, 63

Hi Champlain and Grey House. Do any of you remember Derick Salt? He lived round the other side of the block. It was called "Salty's Side". We used to have stone fights with them through the arch. When we grew up we were mates. Anybody know where he is now?

Jim McCallum, 71

I lived in Champlain house with my sisters Kathy, Betty and Pat we lived near the Lamberts. Went to see QPR last year. To Constance your brother Errol was in my class. Friends I had when at the White City: Liz Mawson, Marion Nash, Margaret MacNally. To the person looking for Brian Euston, he runs a pub in Essex. That's all for now o.coles@btinternet.com

Olive Coles Duggan, 58

Hi Lena,
Wow interesting, love the photos, they bring back some memories. In answer to your question, Carol was the girl, yes we drifted apart (but you are right she was a stunner). We in Havelock had probably the best selection of females for such a small block on the WCE.

I remember a group of us used to go shopping at Woolies in East Acton (without money) mainly for sweets to take into the bowling alley at east Acton. We used to get Cadbury flakes and crumble them up and put them in the bowling balls, which used to leave a trail all along the alley. We also heard that it did not do the machinery much good either.

I too remember going over the wall from the new park into the BBC. We were chased by the park keeper who had an office in the park. He shouted at us so we dropped into the BBC and was promptly chased by the BBC security. We managed to escape by the road at the back and still remember having to avoid the cops looking for us along the road leading to the Uxbridge Road. Cops used to answer calls in those days.

I also remember going to the Richmond ice rink (which is no longer there) and inventing most of the spectacular moves which are often used in modern skating (but I assure you all my moves were always unplanned).

Colin, 53

Hi Michele 57, I saw my sister in one of your photos she was about 4 yrs old at the time.

John O'Shea, 64

Hi all, I used to live in Havelock Close, (Hunter) no.40 bottom corner nearest the gate. Hi Colin Haynes, I do remember you and a girl Carole, you were inseparable. I remember she had black hair and the most lovely eyes. Did you lose touch with her in the end?

I used to go around mostly with Margaret Lynch, we were inseparable during our teenage years although we never went to the same school. I went to Holland Park with my sister Hazel and Margaret went to the local girls school near Wormholt Park. I was in Miss Coombers class (She really hated me) in Canberra and remembered Mr Wilmore well. I had 4 other sisters, although 3 more arrived when my mum remarried. Hazel who is 18 months older than me, Shirley who is 2 years younger (she's already put her memories on this board). Then there was Kim 5 years younger than Shirley and Betty 3 years younger than her. Mum remarried to George Newton and then Georgina arrived and we moved to New Addington, Croydon a couple of years later.

I remember the McCallisters and the Gargon's, I used to go around with Cathy for a while. I also remember Debbie Kiss on the second floor who lived with her Gran and went to the Isle of Wight regularly (cor the things we remember) I used to walk to the library round the back doubles near the Wormholt Park and past the girls school there and remember nicking a bike parked on the front of a house, I was chased by the owner of the bike all the way back to the Westway and I dumped it and ran up the stairs near where the Leggits lived. I never got caught but it really taught me a lesson.

I remember playing two balls and skipping and chalking games in the courtyard, playing Jacks, I had so much fun in those days. Margaret and I used to climb over the wall into the Bloemfontein Road swimming baths when it was closed and we also walked two alsations called Dino and Diane. One really bad winter Hazel and I walked in a blizzard up Bloemfontein Road to the bingo to get my dad as my sister Kim had a high temperature and was having fits. We couldn't see a hand in front of us and had to stay right by the hedges of the houses so as not to walk into the road. I don't know the year, it was that bad but I was up to my waist in snow I'd guess I was about 10 years old so maybe about 1963 or 4. I remember June and Doreen Chuter, their mum used to be friends with mine (Flo). I remember the Callaghans. I remember my sister went to Top of the Pops in Lime Grove, and we all went to the swimming baths there. It was 4 old pence to get in and we had to have different colour pins to put on our swimming costumes. You could also have a bath there but I don't remember doing that.

Oh yes, the bomb sites, I used to play on them, outside our house, we used to have bonfires there too, at the back of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, us girls used to sit on our window sills and have a ringside view of the bonfire and fireworks. I remember the prefabs there too, I used to walk past them to get to my nursery school, Livingstone. I remember Cynthia Grant, I used to walk to school with her. I remember the General Smuts pub and buying sweets and Tizer there. Does anyone remember Shepherds Bush Market, there was a pet shop there that had a Mina Bird called Charlie. It used to say 'Charrrllie, Charrllie.....what's your name' and having pie and mash.

Lastly the fair on the Scrubs, we went every year it was more or less our only treat. I remember winning a coconut one year and a fish another year, Those were the days. I married a guy from Winthrop house, Graham Page, his mum was Violet and dad was Arthur, we have two sons aged 35 and 33 years. Graham and I now live in Bracknell.

Photo captions
I Lena and Hazel
2 Lena
3 Shirley
4 Mum far right holding me (Lena) and my sister Hazel holding my uncle George's hand.

Lena (Eleanor), 56

Hi all you Havelockians, How are you?

I used to live at no 67 (Hayes family) and decided to add a little input. From 1940s-1971.

I guess the best way is to try and establish a story to begin with that might be reflective of the area, so here goes:
Two guys from the estate who will remain nameless decided to ask for money, for looking after cars for people when they parked near the White city stadium on the normal Thursday greyhound racing dogs night. One went up to a driver and said money for looking after your car mister and he said you don't have to look after my car, he does, pointing at his car. At this point they noticed a large ferocious dog snarling at the window try to get out to eat anybody that came by. So he turned to his friend and said WOW and his friend said yep I agree. The man looking confused said WHAT! And he said yes you don't see many fire fighting dogs these days. Guess what the man tipped them.

I remember that we once lit a rocket in a bottle on the third floor pointing it over the balcony and when it went off it hit the balcony roof rebounded down and nearly took out the football crowds from the QPR football ground three floors below (It made the BBC news). The bonfires where approx 50 metres round and up to 50 foot tall and took up to 3 days to burn themselves out. Try doing that these days. Or my brother Clive with his Vespa scooter, luggage rack with 20 lights on and a large Ariel with a flag at the top, wearing a Large green anorak or Crombie coat that he used to wear.

We used to play Cricket and Football with David O'Callanghan a lot, who was good at both. Also we used to play Cannons, hide and seek, along with Knock on doors, go swimming at Lime Grove, go to the essoldo etc. Go on the shopping trips with NO MONEY. I also remember when the NEW PARK became a snow blanket when someone put a couple of bottles of washing up liquid into the pond and it covered the entire area with bubbles.

Does anyone remember Lawsons and Mr Haycock with his extra fingers. The Toffee apple man, the shrimp seller who sold them by the pint glass. Charlie Ferris who ran the local football team. Or how about the Smuts one penny wafer biscuits, or maybe even the chips machines at the smuts or at the garage by the White city station. Sherbet dabs, Jublies, Lucky bags Maybe even the Rival school St Clement Danes and the posh uniforms, What about the funfairs at the Scrubs, Hammersmith Palais (With the SANDS OF TIME), Or Rileys the Greengrocers with their Dandelion and Burdock drink. How about the paraffin fires.

I can still remember Mr Wilmore at Canbera School, playing his fiddle and the morning assemblies with Ilkley moor bhat 'at etc, or Miss Coomber (with her teeth). Or Christoper Wren with its three gyms and teachers such as Hooton, Powell and Keogh. Maybe you remember the 7 mile cross country runs at Warren Farm.

In Havelock close there was the following people that I remember:
building one
Ground floor
The Norma Amos and her brother, The porter who lived by the rubbish shut and had a daughter name Tuppence.
First floor
Mrs Cox in the corner, The Hambi's: John, Harry, Andrew, Nicky and Helen
Second Floor
Jimmy Curswell (Driving the lorry and carrying the massive sacks of coal up five flights of stairs), Mick Remoreno (Moved to Brighton), David and Carol Donetti (Moved to Paddington)
Third floor
The Mohoney Twins Tommy and Terry, Jonny Harrison
Forth Floor
Peter and Vincent Brennon (Moved to Tooting)
building two
Ground floor
Larry Ashmore, Larry Adler (Strongman), Peter Edmunds, Lena Hunter
First floor
The Lynch's: Terry, Tommy, Danny (Moved to Sunbury-on-thames) and Margeret (Moved to Hounslow), Anne and Margaret Robinson (Moved to Hanwell)
Second Floor
Sammy and Deborah Kiss, Teddy and Shiela Ali, Julie Burford.
Third floor
George and Peter Smith, Shaun and Marrion Brett, The O'Callahans: David, Pat, Teddy (moved out to St Albans) and Mary, The Bednarczk's: George, Mary, Mick and Johnny, The Hayes: Lawrence, Elezabeth, Gordon, Nigel, Graham, Doris, Clive, Peter and Colin.
Forth Floor
Iris Hopkins (Moved to Welwyn Garden), Stephen Birch (Moved to Northolt), Janice Morey.

Other People from the area
Garry Black, Howard Bell, John and Patrick Carroll, John and Janice Cooker, Andrew Harris, Barry Hillier, Danial Kelly, Steven Kirkoski, Patrick Janaway, Royston John, Paul O Sullivan, David Pile (moved over to Greenford), Martin Russell, Thomas Stay, Robert Wysinger.

As a final comment who is Shirley, 53 sorry I should remember you! Anyway enough contribs from me c-ya!

Colin, 53

Hi Shirley (53) I used to live in Havelock Close, we read your memories with great fun - I'm Colin's older brother, Peter, my other brothers were Clive and Nigel and two older brothers. If you want to contact me my e-mail is hayespieman@aol.com

Peter, 60

We lived at Laurence Close during the 60s and up until around '73. My brothers, sisters (Michael 51, Anne 50, Fiona 49, Vincent 48) and I, went to Ellerslie and then on to Cardinal Manning, Hammersmith County, Burlington, and Danes.

We're spread all over the world nowadays but remember our time in White City with mixed but mostly fond memories.

If anyone wants to get it touch I can get to my family really easily.

Someone mentioned Johnny Bang Bang - he really scared all of us - but we couldn't help looking around the corner and trying to set him off. Just being kids!

Kieron O'Brien, 46

I lived in Mackay house in 1957 was friends with Charlie Cole, and Willie Baldwin, Peter Toddington, also lived in Mitchell house, with my good friend Johnny Norman, who's Mum and Dad ran the corner cafe for years and it's still in the family, now run by their youngest daughter Elaine and doing a great job too. The crowd of lads I mentioned at the begining, we all used to go to shoe repair classes after school, it was held in Wormholt school, used to save a fortune in shoe repair costs. We all used to go to the Adelaide coffee bar, in Adelaide Road, jiving to Adam Faith, Marty Wilde and the likes with all the local girls.

Francis snowy snowball? Did the Johnny Miller you are in contact with originate from Chelsea, and did he go to Ashburnham school if he did he was a good friend of mine that I have been trying to track down for years.

Alf, 66

Here are some pictures of my Dad (and Mum) serving kids on the White City Estate. Pictures are circa early 50s. Would be great if anyone in these photos remembers!

Michele, 57

Hi you all, it's Ken again from blaxland house, hope you are all looking forword to the summer. Hi Francis (snowball) Snowie, what a small world I worked for Webber the paper man during the war years as I remember him he only had one arm (is it the same Mr Webber) and he had a hut in Ducane Road. I also sold papers by the bus stop by Ellenborough House and the White City station, in those days there were only three paper sellers who used to sell or deliver papers which are the two mentioned plus Hammonds. I worked for all three from 1942 to 1944 we would not be able to do it now (more's the pity).

Keep the memories coming in. I am still seeking info on Nobby Wheeler, Ron (nutty) Woods and the Aldridge bros who lived in Auckland House. That's all for now, regards to you all.

Ken Sharpe, 78

My maiden name was Norman and my Mum was Glad who ran the Cafe in Bloenfontein Road. She is in a care home now but running the cafe was the best time of her life. My Dad died 15 years ago but I do remember him getting the ice poles ready at lunchtime for Christopher Wren and Hammersmith County kids.

Pauline, 57

Hi Constance Dystant (Connie, as I always called you.)

I was in the same class as you at Canberra,and also at Hammersmith County. What a great time we had at Hammersmith County! Do you remember Miss Bamford? My brother John found this website and came across your name and mentioned it to me. I no longer live in white city and now live up the road in Kensington with my lovely daughter who has just turned 13. I have many memories, a great one that sticks in my mind was at Marchant's Hill with Canberra school when me, you and Ita entered the talent competiton and won sixpence each. Those were the days, what you could do with sixpence then! Do you remember my friend Dina? I am still in touch with her. My mum lived on the white city until she was 84.

Hope you're keeping well. It would be nice to hear from you.

Margaret, 53

I only have very vague memories of living on the white city estate - Laurence Close. We used to stay at my nan and grandad's flat. My aunts and uncles lived there: Letterio, Joe, my dad Charlie, Teresa and Jean Lauri. my aunt Jean says she remembers Don Cleary! Anyone who wishes to contact me if they remember any of my aunts/uncles, contact me; clifflauri@yahoo.co.uk or I am on facebook = clifford lauri.

Clifford Lauri, 48

I'm a little younger than a lot on here but I lived in Havelock Close and went to Canberra. I remember Mr Wilmore and Miss Coomber (oh those teeth - when she was angry she'd protrude her bottom teeth). She used to dish out the "corporal punishment" being a smack for the girls. You had to roll up your sleeve and wait for the hand which came down hard on your arm. The boys would get the cane. I remember the swishing sound of the cane as it came down through the air before it hit the boys hands. Can you imagine that happening now?

I was quite naughty and did dangerous things. While the Catholic church was being built (in South Africa Road?) we used to climb up the scaffolding (as it was a building site). We didn't have any fear just loved every minute. We also used to bunk into the BBC (through the "New park" which we called it) and once watched an episode of Doctor Who being made.

Also remember bonfire night when the older boys would call round everybody's house (or flat) for anything to burn then light a massive bonfire on the bomb site. I always wondered why we didn't get a day off school for that day.

I've got hundreds of memories (too many for a first posting). I think about Marion Brett, Stella Mulligan, Mary O'Callaghan, Margaret Lynch, Debbie and Sammy Kiss who were brought up by their Nan love 'em, the Gargan family, Colin Hayes, Larry Ashmore (in the corner) Norma Amos and many many more. I could go on forever...

Shirley, 53

Hi Don(72) I don't recall your name from those I knew at White City, but the memory isn't what it used to be. Also, we didn't move to WC until 1948. Were you still living there then? We lived at 27 Bentinck House. In answer to some of your questions, I believe Mrs Clapp lived on the first floor of Lawrence Close. By the way, do you remember the Lauri Family on the top floor. Jean Lauri moved to the States shortly after I did. I have probably seen your son on TV and will look up the site you gave for him.

Years ago, I met a woman from my towm here who had grown up near Shepherd's Bush. We had lots of memories to share about Shepherd's Bush market and the Hammersmith Palais. I think I may have seen Ted Heath perform there once? I remember vividly the terrible fogs we experienced at that time. When the buses would crawl along and a man with a lighted torch would show the way ahead. It's a wonder any of us are still alive and breathing!

Greetings from across the pond.

Joan Hackett Cooke, 72

Hi everyone I lived in Rhodes house for over 15 years before it got knocked down. Went to Ellerslie primary school. Spent most of my time after school going to the play centre, which used to be run by Peggy. I can remember everyone had to line up to get their juice and 2 biscuits. Ellerslie school had the best football team around out of all the primary schools. If anyone has any pic of the school in the 90s would love to see them.

Ilhan, 28

What a fantastic site. My family moved to 25 Wolfe House Circa 1950. The Porter was Harry Wicks. When he caught us doing something wrong he would shout "Hey" and we would respond by singing "There You With the Stars In Your Eyes"!! What a wonderful place the White City Estate is. I have always been proud to say "I was brought up on the White City Estate" and though I now live in South Devon I re-visit it as often as possible. I first went to Ellerslie Road Primary School but moved on to Canberra when the building was completed. On my first day at Ellerslie I was delivered to the school gates by my brother-in-law, who lived with us at that time, but not being too keen I arrived back at Wolfe House before he did!! At Canberra I have wonderful memories of Mrs Richardson and I still have an "Alice In Wonderland" book signed by her which I was awarded as a school prize in 1953 for "Good behaviour and excellent attendance". My grandchildren love it. I never ever got a prize for any academic subjects!! I remember trips to Marchant's Hill Camp, travelling to it in a Green LCC Bus. There were boxing bouts with the boys and dancing the "Gay Gordons" with the girls. I have boxed only once since (and that was only "milling" whilst training with the Royal Marines) and I have to say I would never qualify as a contestant on "Strictly Come Dancing". Never mind, what great memories. Some of the teachers names I remember are Miss Short, who innocently kissed us all goodnight at Marchant's Hill Camp. Sadly this would never be allowed now! Miss Knight who became Mrs Howie once took myself and three other pupils to her home for tea. I had too much Tizer and was sick on her sofa. The other pupils were Johnny Barton (26 Wolfe House), Marion Raggio (19 Wolfe House), Sandra Watts and Janine Adelman, an American girl. Both Sandra and Janine lived in what we called the "luxury flats". Sandra's dad I think was a fireman. The school song was "Walting Matilda" but I thought it was "War Saint Matilda" and sung my heart out never realising that I had the words wrong!!

I was one of Alf Parrot's Cubs and then one of his Scouts. We used to meet at Livingstone School. I went to school with Johnny Miller (Grey House) and I was also friendly with Ricky Da-Silva (both of whose names have been mentioned by other contributors). Ricky joined the Royal Green Jackets and I last met him at The Jungle Warfare School in Johore Bharu, Malaysia, Circa 1964. Johnny ran Loftus Garage for years and we still exchange Xmas Cards. I went to St Michael and St George Church (Father Prior) where I was first a choirboy and then a server. I played in goal for the under 11's Hammersmith Boy's Football Association. At Christopher Wren the Headmaster was Mr Boot. I was a newspaper boy for Fred Webber who had a hut in Ducane Road just over the bridge that crossed the Central Line. I did a different round each day, relieving the boys as they had their day off and so I delivered to just about every block on the White City and also to the Wormholt Estate. When I got a bit older I sold newspapers (Star, News and Standard) outside White City Underground Station. The pitch was owned by Grandad Diggle, a fantastic guy. He also had stalls at the BBC, Cohen 600 Group and BICC. I used to rotate between the sites and loved every minute of it. My mate Dave Starling, one of three sets of twins who lived in the prefabs, had a job in the market selling artificial flowers. When he was unavailable I would stand in for him. Never mind "The Apprentice" we had all the training we needed very close at hand. I hope I have not bored anyone but I have so many happy memories it is difficult to know when to shut up!!

Francis (Snowball/Snowie), 64

I've enjoyed reading these pages, I lived on the estate in the mid-late fifties. Could someone name the block of flats that overlooked the Livingstone school I used to live there. Thank you.

Roger, 59

Hello Joan, Maureen and Harry, lovely to hear from you all after 50 or more years, I'll keep you up to date with life so far. When Joan went to the states in 1955 I went into the navy for two years and later met my wife Doreen and married in 1959 we had two daughters, but sadly Doreen passed away when the girls were quite young but happily I later married my sister-in-law Pauline and have had a very happy 37 years so far.

Joan, I am sorry you recently lost your husband and hope you have family and friends to help you as I did. Harry do you remember going to the Hammersmith Palais on Sunday mornings to learn how to dance but no girls there so we had chairs for partners? (I can still only waltz).

My brother Alan played a clarinet and played in a group at pubs and weddings sadly he died 30 years ago doing what he liked best, on a golf course. I didn't actualy know Danny Kaye, Joan but I doted on him at the time, spoke to him and got his autograph. Harry remember Yvonne Kelly who lived in your block, I remember falling out with her because we didn't lift her over the fence to see the bodies at the Blom pool ,to think back, life was pretty hard in those days but I don't think it did us any harm.

Don (clicker) Clarke lives on the south coast and we still keep in contact and he keeps in contact with Clive Bottril. It's funny how things spring to mind when trying to think of the old days, I remember the coalman climbing five flights of stairs with a hundredweight sack on his back and tipping the coal in the cupboard at the end of our hall and back all the way down to get another six or seven and my mum making me count them because the coalman would leave us short if he could. And does anybody remember the bagwash man ,we used to sit in the back of the van on all that damp bagwash and deliver the bags hoping for a tip, no laundrettes in those days.

Somebody was asking about the last film at the pavilion before it got bombed, it was Tawney Pippet and the Adventures of Tom Sawyer I think. I wonder Harry if you remember Madge's Cafe and Loudwater, your dad dropped us off and we went camping for a few days, great day's weren't they?

I think I've said enough for the time bein,g so cheerio for now and thanks for the contact. Regards Mike.

Michael, 73

I was pleased to see that June Hicks is still with us and as had the pleasure of a family. Her memories very much matched my own albeit my memory is'nt what it used to be! If you feel like making contact after all these years, please contact me through my daughter. louiseleach@silcoates.org.uk

John, 70

I have just been given a copy of the INKSPOTS, a very popular singing group at the end of the war. They appeared at the Hammersmith Odeon in 1945 can anyone say they attended at a great night of entertainment. You must remember our only entertainment had been Adolf Hitler up until that time. Please forgive the thoughts of an old man. Best of luck.

John L, 79

In reply to Joan Hackett Cooke, 72.
I'm sure we must have known each other, but my problem, as I have explained before, is that having moved away at the end of the war, names just didn't register enough at that age. I do however remember the name that you mentioned, Clapp from Lawrence Close - where I lived. Do you remember where she lived in Lawrence? Do you remember the party I mentioned in an earlier message?

Being in America you may have seen my son on television. He has been the pianist for Bonnie Raitt for some time now. He lives in New Orleans and is now rated as one of their finest piano blues musicians. He has his own band and tours across the States. Look him up at www.joncleary.com.

Back to the 'City', it was a truly amazing place to grow up in. What an interesting and exciting time we all had, quite unique. My family have always been fascinated with the stories of what we got up to. I think the whole thing was character forming - at least I like to think so. The only other names I can recall were Slaney, Pack, Enright (the warden), Miss Hart at Ellersley Road primary school, and a lad called Bobby who lived on the 4th floor and about my age.

Keep the messages coming - wonderful stuff. Regards to all.

Don Cleary, 72

Christopher Wren school 1968-1972 .
My teacher Mr Silk used to play music in the class. I remember going to Warren Farm 3 times a week to play rugby - you had no choice. The chippy loaf was the lunchtime meal from the bakers, after lunch sport in one of the halls, Mr Powell the rugby teacher would give you a whack if you played up in his lesson. We lived on the Wormholt Estate.
qigong77@hotmail.co.uk

Paul, 52

What a surprise this web site being sent to me by my brother Patrick Kilgallon. I moved to Ellenborough House about 5 weeks prior to the Queen's Coronation and remember with great affection all the very happy times in our block and Estate, being 1 of 8 children, the Kelleher family I think about 8 also and the Clark family 12 or so from memory. Mr Garnett our Welsh Headmaster who was in his glory if the school excelled at any sports, such happy days, as was Christopher Wren especially Mr Ryder my 1st year form teacher, an inspiration to all that had the good fortune to know him. To read the tales of the General Smuts/shop owners/nanny no noes the toffee apple man plus numerous names and mates "you could write a book" about it all, but there was a sense of adventure/achievement and loyalty that came from that wonderful Estate, little crime, respect for teachers/elders and law and order (but I did love scrumping apples from the gardens near Wormholt Park) that was about the extreme extent of our law breaking. I now live in Perth, Western Australia with my wife Judy, daughter, 2 sons and 8 grandchildren who all live only 1 mile from us - also my sister Kathleen Turner (Kilgallon) who lives 500 yards away, I return with my wife to the Isle of Wight each year for about 5 months to see friends etc. having lived there for 30 years but would love to hear from any friends from White City Estate.

Danny, 64

Hello everyone! I didn't live in the White City but my dad did (John Leach). He lived in Phipps House with his sisters Georgina and Grace and Parents Jess and Albert Leach. Dad was born in 1938 and remembers good (but tough) times there as a boy. He would be thrilled if any of you remember him or his family and would like to send a message! Thanks so much.

Louise Leach, 40

Hi Dorothy (72), We are the same age. I wonder if we knew each other. Did you live at the White City? I answered your entry because Mary Shortall was one of my good friends. We went to school together, St. Edmunds, off Fulham Palace Road. I remember her mother and aunt and young niece. I can't remember their names though.

Later on my brother dated Mary for a while. But I didn't keep in touch with her as I emigrated to American in my late teens. I, too, would like to know about Mary Shortall if anyone else has any updates.

So great to be able to correspond and relive old memories all the way from Connecticut, U.S.A. Best wishes.

Joan Hackett Cooke, 72

Hello Dorothy, yes I remember Mary Shortall, my brother Paddy Hackett dated her for a while, I remember her being a very lovely girl, sorry that's all I can remember.

Maureen, 70

My name is Joan Hackett Cooke. My sister Maureen, mentioned this site when we spoke on the phone recently. Reading all the interesting and fond memories has been both emotional and heartwarming. I specifically wanted to say a fond hello to Michael Rippon. My family and I lived a 27 Bentink House from 1948. I left England to go to America in 1955. We were a family of six sisters and a brother, Paddy. I've lived in America all my adult life. I've often wondered about all the childhood friends we knew at White City. Mike Rippon was special person in my life, growing up. I remember that your brother was in the music business and played an instrument. And I remeber you used to mention you knew Danny Kaye. Remember the amazing party at your house in 1955. (I believe) My best friend, Alice met Harry Norris that night. They have been happily married many year to date. I wondered what happed to Don Clark lived on Westway and Clive Boterall. Frank and Charlie King from Brisbane, became my brother Paddy's, brothers-in-law. My brother moved to Ireland some years ago. And yes, Michael, he did have that terrible bicycle accident as a young man and suffered servere facial injuries. And thankfully, he recovered.

I remember Mrs Clapp from Lawrence Close at the window. And a boy named Ronnie at Bentick House who had a huge,indoor fish tank. Can't remember his last name. I wonder if anyone remembers a movie being made at White City. I can't remember just what location, but I believe it was about horse racing. Such great memories. Especially for me as I feel that I have been cut off from my earlier life having left Britain at an impressionable age. My best wishes to all from USA.

Joan Hackett Cooke, 72

I'm from the White City but I've lived in Canada for over 40 years and have visited the White City many times over the years. It's obvious from this site that most people have great memories and I've enjoyed reading them, I think we lived there at the best time.

Maureen, I left the wrong e mail before, it should be jmccann45@hotmail.com hope to hear from you.

John, 63

Anyone remember Mary Shortall who lived in 59 Champlain House with her mother and aunt? Be glad of any news.

Dorothy, 72

Hello again Michael Rippon, it was so good to hear from you, and that you remembered my family, Joan went to America in 1954 and has been there ever since, she married a boy from New York and has recently been widowed, Paddy lives in Ireland, I spoke to him last night and he couldn't get over the fact that you remembered his bike accident, he still has the scars on his nose, sadly we lost our eldest sister Monica three years ago, the others are scattered over the uk, we try to get a reunion every three years or so, the last one was in Scotland, where we usually end up talking about White City, and all the kids we knew and your name usually comes up.

They were good innocent times, great memories, I was wondering if you remember the allotments at the back of Brisbane and Bentinck house, my dad was very proud of the veggies he grew, and the archway where we would sing the top twenty songs - the echo made us sound really good!

Maureen, 70

Hello everyone...I used to live in Wolfe House which was opposite the White City Stadium. This stadium dominated our lives: not only was it the premier dog track and athletic stadium in the country, it also held other events like "The Military Tattoo" when an RAF bomber would fly low over the venue and also the Royal International horseshow and "The Daily Mirror Cavalcade of Sport."

It also held large boxing events with Freddie Mills, Randolph Turpin et al fighting there. Apparently, Jack Doyle the Irish boxer brought Shepherds Bush to a standstill before the war, such was the interest with the enormous crowds. The stadium also featured in films such as "The Blue Lamp" with Jack Warner and "Jumping for Joy" with Frankie Howard. The big athletic events included a titan race, under floodlights between Chris Chataway and Vladamur Kuchs the great Russian runner. The event was televised live. Derek Ibbotson also beat the mile record of 3.57 minutes on the White City track...

I also remember that Richard O'Sullivan the actor from "Man about the house" and "Robin's Nest" lived in Hastings house and went to Canberra school. I remember him running amok with Mrs Richardson in hot pursuit, through the halls and corridors of the school, much to the amusement of all the children. Does anyone else remember Mrs Richardson's heavy walk along the corridor before entering for assembly every morning. Not long after Richard left for stage school and the family moved away.

Our milkman was Dia Jones who had a dairy opposite the Latimar Upper playing fields in Wood Lane. His dog ate our budgie!

Brian, 66

Hello Mike Rippon, glad to find out that we are still alive and kicking. I only got to know about this site because Maureen told Joan who then told Alice about it (thanks Maureen I have not got your email would have written otherwie). Your memory seems to be in good nick, Mike, the things you remembered about my family. I remember your brother Allen and the skiffle group he tried to get together. I think my brother Frank used go round with Allen. Also remember Clicker Clarke lived up West Way used to collect him on the way to Jack's Cafe along with Clive Botrill, Sam Tremlet and Norman Ship. I remember spending afternoons down Shepherds Bush Market when we should have been at school! Remember the the YCA trip to Belgium when we were sent home early for being badly behaved! I married Alice in 1957 we have 2 sons and a daughter and 4 grandchldren did'nt the years go quickly. Nice to have made contact.

Harry, 73

I think I am getting hooked on this site, keep going in and reading something that jogs my memories again. Annette, sad to hear about Harry and Fred, as a girl, my mum Mary, would send me to the green crocers for mushroom stalks and brussel sprouts. Fred and Harry were so nice, always chatted and had a laugh. They used to tell me off for eating the sprouts, I loved them raw, still do. My mum was Mary Campbell - she looked like Elizabeth Taylor - sadly not with us now. My brother was Alec and I am Maureen. I can see Fred and Harry in my mind's eye. They really were the good old days.

Paul O'Brien, I remember all your family, Eddie was the one that all the girls fancied, handsome bugger. Ask if they remember Derek Quick, Patsy Lane, Alec Campbell (my brother), Tommy Prosser and his brother Dave - no longer with us - but his dad is 87 and healthier than most of us. Whoever told you they were the good old days were right, they really were. As a teenager I would go to the Smuts and have a drink with me mum and dad, then on to Hammersmith Palais. It was a meeting place for all. Memories of Christmas time on the city are still wonderful to me, smell of cigars and my dad singing Mack the Knife. I have seen John O'Brien down the Con club a few times, and always talk about his mum and dad, great times, wish it was like that now.

Maureen, 58

Hello Maureen 70, yes I am the same Michael Rippon who knew your family very well, Joan was smashing but I was too shy to tell her at the time. I'd forgoten that you had more sisters but knew your brother and I think we called him Paddy and he was a bit older than us, I dont know if you remember but he went on a cycling holiday on the Isle of Wight and had an accident and ended up in hospital.

Harry Norris was a good mate and we spent lots of time together, his dad drove one of those big low loaders backward and forward to Wales and his brother Frank spent a long time in hospital in Carshaltan, I just about remember Alice and glad they eventualy got hitched. I should think this was about the time we all went our different ways. Did Harry have a frame makers in Notting Hill?

I remember Yvonne Souter who also lived in your block and a boy called Peter Singer who I think lived opposite you, Ronnie Palmer also lived in Bentink on the ground floor, Frank King was a good friend and lived in the same block as me, If you remember Don Clark we still keep in contact as he is my wife's cousin.

Congratulations on your long marraige to Ron Squires. All the very best to you and all your family and thanks for reminding me.

Michael Rippon, 73

To John, you are the missing card player that Charlie now remembers. He has a memory of you getting a hole in one at Perival golf course. As for the names you mentioned, I was having a drink with Randall McArthur last night, he sends his regards, Jim Lynch, Tom Prosser, Eddie Stewart, are all well. Sadly Les Tuffy and Alan Dewsall have passed away. How is Gillian?, are you still in Canada, I tried to send you an email but it failed. Keep coming with the memories.

Maureen, 58

It's been wonderful to read of all the memories that people have of good old White City.

I lived in Bentinck house from 1948-66 with mum and dad, six sisters and one brother, they used to refer to Bentinck house and some others as luxury flats, I dont know why, perhaps because they had sliding doors. We had lots of young friends, Micheal Rippon who was very chummy with my sister Joan, Harry Norris who married Joan's friend Alice, there were the Packs and the Claps from Laurence Close, I remember nanny no nose, and how the kids would call har names poor soul, Yvonne Souter my best friend, and Maureen and Babara, twins that lived on the top floor in Bentinck House, and Charlie and Frank King.

I Rmember the open air swimming baths where you could stay all day for sixpence, the General Smuts, which my Dad helped to build. I remember representing my school in sports at White city stadium. I married my lovely husband Ron Squires 51 years ago who lived in Laurence close, we were married in Our Lady of Fatima situated on the green, when it was just a hall.

I could go on forever, about the fond memories I have of White City, and would love to hear from anyone who remembers me or any of my family.

Maureen, 70

To Margaret, so nice to know you are well and remember those days, how is Patrick? I remember your family so well, my brother Alec Campbell is well and living in Northolt. I live just round the corner in Greenford. My dad is still with us, but sadly mum went about 16 years ago now. Keep up the memories.

Maureen Campbell, 58

I am desperately seeking a photo(s) of Jeans Cafe, Ladbroke Grove, London around 1956, this means a lot to me since this cafe run by a friend of my mothers who had a central role in my early life.

I would be very grateful for any assistance regarding this subject, thank you.

Jim, 61

Gerardine, the greengrocers was called EM Riley and son, my grandad bought if from Jim Barratt, my dad and his brother Fred took over then my dad gave it up and Fred carried on in the late early 70s, my nan worked behind the till, everyone called her Babe, and also Lulu worked there.

My dad had his funeral from there and he had a great turnout. Unfortunately both Fred and Harry (my dad) have both died now but I would absolutely love to hear from anyone that remembers them and hear their memories my email address is annette187@hotmail.com

Great memories, very poignant, I used to love when I got to go to the shop and nip over to the pool (yes I know it was freezing but it was still a great day out in the summer). Oh those were the days, I wish we could go back.

Annette, 52

Hello John Cleary. I lived at no 13 Laurence Close with my three sisters and four brothers. Your name seems familiar. We lived there from 1948 untill 1962, I remember the Packs and the Clap families and of course nanny no nose, who we used to torment, poor soul.

ronaldsquires114@yahoo.com, 75

My dad Harry and his brother Fred had Rileys greengrocers, my dad left though and Fred carried on. My dad still went to the shop and had many great friends over there, it would be nice to hear from anyone that remembers him. His funeral actually left from the Shop as it was a major part of his life.

Annette, 52

Hi Michael Rippon, I wondered if you are the same Michael that we used to hang out with in our teens, I am one of the Hacketts who lived in Bentinck house in the 50s and 60s. If you are the same Michael you might remember a lad called Harry Norris who married a girl called Alice. We were a large family, 6 girls and a boy.

Maureen, 70

I was at Christopher Wren school 1971-1974. I remember the chip shop with the half loaf of bread, we use to call it a chippy loaf. And also the frozen jublees. My mates were Martin Higgins and John Conney. The open air swimming pool was a god send in the hot summers. I remember Mr Gorden head of year when he took us on a river cruise for a week. We did not come back in one piece as I sunk the boat, he was not happy, but being the last day of the week it happened we got our money's worth. Also we went on a school trip to the Breckon beacons which was great and watched the omega man with Charlton Heston in it which put the frighteners on us when we went back to the dormitories.

I worked as a Saturday boy in west Layton and can still see the Chelsea boot boys coming down the road escorted by the police. YES IT WAS ALL A GOOD TIME.

David Hall, 48

Hi Ken (77). Sadly my grandad's sister Eve passed away in 2006. She was a lovely women, a lot like Terry's mum Margaret who also passed away in 2004, she was 95. They lived in Auckland house and he often told me about the V1 at Blaxland house and that he remembers looking up at a flat and the clock still hanging on the wall above the fireplace.

Vic Hord, I'll let Terry know you were asking for him.
All the Best

Billy Shanahan, 19

I lived in Stanlake Road from 1953-1961. I remember going to Shepherds Bush market and a lady singing "two bob a large shopping bag". Also in the material shop the money was put in a container which went all round the ceiling and up to the cashier in the corner who took it out, put in your change and back round the ceiling it would come!

My sister and I went to Maidi Birch School of Dancing in Hammersmith.

Christine, 56

Isn't strange that in the year 2009 we cannot cope with a drop of snow, from 1941 till well after the war we had 4 bus services 628-630 trolley buses and 105-72 petrol buses which ran right through the war always on time and very reliable. The trolley buses were quiet, fast and they ran all night. They were scrapped to make way for the Routmaster which was not in the same league, did anyone think the same as me, I would like to know. All the best.

John L, 79

Even though I left Bloemfontein Avenue during the War I still remember what fun we had at the Blom open air pool during the Twenties. I used to go to a school further up that road which was set back up a road on the left. There were not many houses along that side in those days, just fields! Anyway can anyone remember the name of that school? Was the Christopher Wren later built on the site? Anyone with any information could they please contact me at spilliow1@btinternet.com I would be so grateful!

Thank you so much.

Thelma, 90

Michael, I've just seen the mention on the website about the falling child. Thanks for confirming the fact that he/she seemed to be OK. It's nice to have confirmation of these little memories. It also means that you and I must have known each other, since we all milled about between the blocks. I was just a short distance away when the child fell and on the scene soon after.

Do you by any chance remember the film show in the shelter in front of Lawrence Close on VE day - we had a very large party and I presume that lots of kids came from the surrounding blocks, since there were so many sprogs there - far more than lived in Lawrence Close. In the evening spotlights were fixed on the balconies and people danced to the Valetta waltz.

The lights were made by our next door neighbour, name unknown now, who worked in the theatre (they seemed to be a well educated family and I remember his son used to come home from a boarding school - nice lad). Biscuit tins were fixed with powerful bulbs, and there must have been about four of them panning around the area, picking up various people as they glided by.

Does anyone remember this party, the film show and the evening dancing?

Don, 73

Hello I'm Eileen's Daughter Bridget, my mum worked in sayers common and hurespierpoint picking mushrooms during the war, she passed away Christmas Eve 2008 does anyone remember her?
Thank you, Bridget.

Eileen Dowds, 83

Went to Christopher Wren School for a short time in the 70s. I am from the north east of England, Middlesbrough, I live in Shepherds Bush in 1A Wood Lane. My parents had a box of chicken shop on the corner over the road was a pub called the Beaumont Arms. My mate at school was called Robert Ruth from Middlesbrough as well, does any body remember him or me. I moved back up north in 74/75. Email gazbell1959@hotmail.com

Gary Bell, 49

Hi Billy Shanahan, when you see your grandad Terry tell him Vic Hord was asking after him. I have good memories of Terry going back to the 40s, 50s and 60s. It would be good to hear from him.

Vic Hord, 70

I would like to say my name is John Leggett. I lived at 29 Champlain house from 1940 -1953 and it should be said my comments on Mick Carter are all true he was always there for any one in trouble. But woe betide any body who wanted to cause trouble I don't suppose he was earning a great wage but it was a joy to have him around sorting things. God bless him and his memory. I wish you all well.

John L, 79

I lived in White City in the 80's and moved around it quite a bit. I do remember a lot of good times. The adventure playground, the newly built swimming pool, the youth club, the fairs at the green. But as above there was quite some bad too, the General Smuts "well", the football crowds after the matches, guaranteed a good kick off. I also remember "George" at the chip shop and his infamous half a loaf of bread filled with chips. I went to Hammersmith school, another both good and bad, Mr McAllister, brilliant teacher.

Lisa, 36

To Jimmy Mac, George Alderman, Tubby Colgrove, and John L and all my friends of Champlain and Grey House: As Jim and George know I am not a computer buff and never use the computer so I have to depend on my wife Rosaline for all your updates.

It's good that Tubby remembers playing cricket with me. I played wicket keeper till I left England six years ago at aged 63. I also played football for Hudson Wanderer when home on leave from the R.A.F. I still have a miniature trophy for a cup we won in the Fulham Sunday Sportsmans League. I stopped playing football at 59.

For all the people who mentioned Ticker May, I have a story to tell. When I was at Wormholt School -- at lunchtime I would sneak up to North Hammersmith playground and play football with Ticker and the rest of the lads. Just a reminder, Ticker had a short spell at QPR at centre half.

I remember Brian and Terry Cole, Derek and Bobby Birch, and Chris and Jimmy Room. Chris and I used to to go fishing at Little Britain Lake at West Drayton with two lads from Primula St.

There has been many communications from John L, could this be Johnny Large? I would like to thank him for his kind comments about my Dad, Mick Carter, and also all his nice comments about how the neighbors helped each other and the commaraderie between everyone on the Estate could not be surpassed (No doors locked in those days) through the hard war years and the lean times later.

To everyone who ever lived on the White City Estate -- good health and a long and happy life to all of you.

Terry Carter (ex. Champlainite), 70

l lived in Charnock House on the 2nd floorwith my mum Maryjoe, my dad Kevin and my brother Patrick. My sister Denise arrived several years later - a big shock for my parents. My Bedroom window overlooked blom open air pool and Wormholt Park and we lived above the shops. l remember the O'Brian's well especailly Eddie and Martin and we had great fun as kids. Does anyone remember playing in the courtyards Sunday afternoon when my dad would organise a game of cricket - hit and run. Brings back great memories.

Fred Riley's greengrocer shop was quite a meeting place for the fellas and when l married my husband Gee Fenwick Fred was best man and Shirley was matron of honour, we had great times together.

l remeber sailor Jack, every Sunday afternoon my dad used to buy prawns and winkles from him for our Sunday tea - smashing. Glads cafe was another great meeting place for all the fellas and I remember blind Bill who used to sit down with his cuppa and his braille book and there was one fella (who shall remain nameless) who used to pour sugar over the braille book and Bill used to go mad effing and blinding at them all. l remeber Johnny poor soul who was always running around being a cowboy and shooting us all.

My dad used to play darts in the General Smutts and everyone knew everyone else. l remember in the winters when it snowed the boys making an ice slide in the courtyard and when you got to the end you fell over the small wall. Also in the summer one year we all had roller skates, if you wre lucky your wheels were rubber not ball bearings like mine and remember we all went to the back of the BBC studios (they were still building it) because they had a hill and we would skate down this hill being chased by security men - good times.

Gee was very good friends with Gerry Sharpe and Frank Fitzpatrick and Mickey Pack - all now sadly passed away - does anyone know the whereabouts of Jimmy West not sure what block he lived in - it would be the early sixties. He used to ride a Vincent Comet motor bike and drove a Frogeye Sprite car - hubby would love to hear from him.

Maureen, loved your write up - we met up on Hammersmith County's school reunion a few years back and had a good chat then. l remember Father Daniels well - he performed our marriage ceremony.

l also remeber Elaine Starling and her brothers and sisters - we were in the same class at Hammersmith County, in fact we both attended the first day the school opened and Miss Lacey was our head mistress.

l remember the fog and bonfire night - there was always a competition to see who could build the highest bonfire and the boys would put bangers on a long wire and chase us girls with them until they went bang, you had to run your heart out so as not to get burnt but we loved it.

Margaret, 63

Hi Billy Shanahan (19), it's Ken again from blaxland, I knew Terry Brent very well and I seem to remember he had a very good looking sister named Eve ! think? Did they live in Aukland house opposite where the V1 came down on Blaxland? I am glad he is still around. All the best to you all.

Ken, 77

Hello Don 73, yes I remember a little child falling from flats but this was at the back of Ellenborough house, I was playing by the pram sheds when I saw the kiddy fall and was first on the scene along with my mates, I can't remember whether it was a boy or girl but I remember its face was green on one side where it had hit the grass below. And your quite right the kiddy went to hospital but was back after a couple of hours and no harm done. Great site isn't it?

Michael, 73

I lived in Greyhouse with my parents and sister Valerie and brother Brian during WW2. We moved to Headstone Lane in 1948 when I was six. I remember going to Wormholt school. I also remember the Worleys - especially Ronnie. I did see him again when I was in my late teens in Harrow, he was living at Carpenters Park then. I also remember a Philip Weston (perhaps related to Weston Biscuits Co. of Harlesden). I remember going to Saturday morning pictures at the cinema at Acton. My sister Valerie was 10 and my brother Brian was 12 when went we moved to Harrow. I now live in Farnham in Surrey.

Janet Booth (nee Harris), 66

Do any of these names ring a bell and if you still keep in touch with them? John Large, Bobby Birch, Michael Phelan, Brian Eusten, Mick Hendly. There are more but can't remember. (Senior Moment!).

Jim McCallum, 71

I wish there was a website for others who lived in Shepherds Bush. After the war, we moved back and lived in Shepherds Bush Road, until 1950 when we moved to a block of flats in Becklow Gardens. I went to Lena Gardens School first, which was great, and then to West Kensington Central School, which was a nightmare. Swimming (I never learnt) was fun at Lime Grove, and they sold great sausage rolls and Bovril. I still remember the strong chlor smell. We didn't have a usable bathroom, so it was down to Lime Grove for the public baths. There was first and second class - we went first. You got a bar of soap (we didn't use it for bathing) and a towel, which my mother put at the bottom of the bath. If you wanted more hot water, you had to shout for it!

Anne, 72

Glad to hear from Maureen that Charlie Prosser is doing well and has a fine memory. He was from East Acton but had many friends and relatives in the White City.

Reading the blogs reminds me of the many places that we thought of as our own but belonged to everyone in the White City. The cage, the bonfire plot on the dump at the site of Our Lady of Fatima, the red ash, Blom, the cafe, the prefabs. Hope to hear from friends that I've lost contact with, Eddie Stewart, Jimmy Lynch, Tom Prosser, Les Tuffey, Alan Dewsall, Ted Donald, Pete Edmonds, Randall McCarthy etc.
johnmccann45@hotmail.com

John, 63

Hello Michael 73, Thanks for the mention of granny no nose, another name from the past now long gone. Another job I had apart from Paynes shoe repairs was helping with the evening newspaper by the bus stop on the A40, granny no nose used to scare my younger brother to death.
All the best to the White City old kids for 2009

Authur, 67

Wow, just reading some of the memories from white city and feeling quite proud. My family have lived here years, my grandad Terry Brent, nan Doreen Brent. They tell me stories sometimes and I think it must of been good times in white city. They're both still here living in Grey House, I was born in Champlain, my mum is Lisa Brent and my dad is Paul Shanahan, he used to work in Riley's green grocers when it was there. All the memories of white city make me wonder what it must have been like to live here back then.

Billy Shanahan, 19

Anybody who has just come accross this wonderful site, make sure you scroll down the long page. You might miss something. Champlain and QPR. Top boys.

Jim McCallum, 71

Well Michael, it's funny how things stick in your mind, let's take your memory of a young boy having a fit, I am sure that would be my old mate Cecil Sharpe, he sufferd a lot with them, sadly he passed away a few years ago, his brother Ken can tell when. Sarsy Sharpe lived at 22 Blaxland they were not related.

It's nice to see there are still a few more of the old gang finding this site, lets hope they keep coming.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF THE WHITE CITY GANG. All the best.

Jack, 76

A few memories for you. I lived at 34 Champlain house, next door at 33 lived Mr & Mrs Rackham. They were an elderly couple and had a son in the navy. It must have been in 1944/ 1947 that about once a week they would ask me to go to Jack's cafe and get a half ounce of Boars' Head tobacco and two beechams little liver pills and two Seidlitz powders, and I could keep the penny change. I have often wondered what Seidlitz powders were, well I googled it and found out that they were for constipation!

We used to go to Blom open air pool as often as we could, this day my dear Mum had no money for me to go swimming, but there were a few lemonade bottles that I could have to take to Jack's cafe and get the deposit money back and go swimming. I carried those bottles all the way to Jack's and just as I got there I tripped and dropped the bottles and they smashed. I cried all the way home, no swimming for me!!

Dad was in India, Mum worked, and me and my two elder brothers were left on our own. I followed my brothers everywhere, much to their chagrin, and I always say that the first words I spoke were f--- Off, because that's what they were always telling me to do! Although to his credit my brother Tom, god bless him, looked after me when we were kids. He is no longer with us and I miss him every day.

George Alderman, 71

Hi Rip (73), of course we all knew Ron (sarcy) Sharp, they spelt it without an e. They lived at 22 by the chute. We are the other Sharpe family who lived at 24.

The boy you refer to having the fits was one of my brothers, Cecil his name was. I had 3 brothers Cecil, Harold and Gerald sadly all passed away now. My bro Harry and Fred (chunky) Manning were partners in the green grocery shop that they opened when they left school.

If you did cycle speedway the only team on the white city was the racers and if you look at the pictures on this site there are some team photos. And of course the names you mentioned are all well known to me. As you say Rip this site brings back all the memories of our childhood from those far off days.

A happy new year to you all and a big thank you to all the people who run the site and to all from the white city who have contributed to the site, that's all for now.

Ken, 77

This is for John 62, please tell me your surname, my uncle Charlie remembers the 3 card brag, but are you Johnny McCann? Please let me know so I can tell Chas. You would be about the same age as Dave Prosser. Regards.

Maureen, 58

To Michael (73), Many thanks for reminding me about our trips in rubber tyres. I don't think that I had completely forgotten about these, but your note pulled distant memories back into play. We are about the same age, but I left WC when I was 10 so people's names are lost to me. I miss any form of contribution from Lawrence Close, where I lived, but it is fascinating to read all the messages.

As someone said, it is a pity that there is not more on the return contribution front.

Don Cleary, 72

What a smashing site, just came across it by accident, my old grey cells are slowly falling apart but reading some of the old names popping up brings back wonderful memories of my childhood and the strong bond that kept us so happy in those hard old days, not hard for us but for our parents.

My name is Michael Rippon but I was known as Rip or Rippy in those days and lived in Brisbane House but spent time all over the estate especialy in Blaxland and Auckland, a good friend in those days was Ronnie (sarcy) Sharpe, I used to call for him for school every day, I remember his dad died when we were very young, Kenny Wyatt lived in Auckland House and his dad had an ironmongers shop behind the Savoy in East Acton, we would help out serving parafin and things (no 'elf and safety then). I remember Peter Gordon, he lived in Abercrombie after moving from Blaxland or Auckland I think, his dad worked in Brentford market and brought home the first banana we ever saw and Peter hung on to it until it went black just to show it off.

The airaid shelters were 2/3rds under the ground and I think there was three at the back of our block, when the bombing got really bad we stayed down there all night and I remember coming up one morning to find Blaxland had been hit. We had lots of fun on the dump where all the bomb damage rubbish was piled high like a mountain and we would roll up like a ball in a rubber tyre and roll all the way down to the bottom. All that was where they built all the new flats Cornwallis, Denham, Canning, etc after the war. Beside collecting the coke from the gas works we used to go to the wood dump in Wood Lane near Jack's cafe and get sacks of wood for the fire, the cafe was where we often spent our days on the pin table, I remember one lad used to get excited and go into a fit, we all learnt how to put a spoon in his mouth to stop him biting his tongue, I can't remember his name.

Thanks one and all for bringing back names like chunky Manning, Sid Rouse, Ticker May, and a lot more, I can't really remember whether I was a white city racer but I did do cycle speedway and still have a scar on my hand where I took a fall on the ashes. We used to make our own bikes up on whatever we could lay our hands on. I still have lots more memories of those days when we didn't have much but enjoyed each other's company, Happy New Year to all of you and thanks for the memories.

Michael, 73

Hello Jack 75, was that lady having trouble crossing the A40 Granny no nose? She had a false nose and very often stood in the middle of the courtyard and wet herself on her way to the bus stop. My name is Michael Rippon but was called Rip or Rippy and lived in Brisbane House.

Michael, 73

I find it rather odd that people write to the website asking if anyone remembers them, and when you respond to them, nothing. You don't hear anymore from them, strange. I can only conclude that they don't want to know me or I upset them in some way.

George, 71

Hi this is a message for CONSTANCE (DYSTANCE) 52. I read your letter and I remember your brothers Errol and Fred. Although I think I was more friends with Errol. I remember coming to your house with Errol (I think it was him) and we flicked cards up against the wall the nearest to the wall won those cards (I lost). Ask him if he still remembers the "Coyte family" who lived in Ellenborough, Andy, Cyril, Jeff, Dave, Jenny and Hazel (who sadly is no longer with us). I am still in touch with them and I'm sure Andy and Cyril would like to get in touch with your brothers. My e-mail address is: bowlerbrw@aol.com

Roy, 60

Great website for memories of people from a great time in a unique place long ago. Many of the names are familiar to me, Les Tuffy the milkman and his sons Les and Jimboy, the O'Briens from Canning House, Freddie Cerisola, the Lovells, Mr Flynn the orator, his dear wife and daughters (Wilemina? Philamena?) Johnny bang bang and his friends from St Huberts?.

I was good friends with Tom and Dave Prosser, glad to hear from Maureen (I remember you too!) that Charlie is still going strong. He might recall taking money from us boys after he came home from the pub by beating us at 3 card brag mostly by scaring us out with big bets.

Keep up the contact.
Any Cornwallis or Havelock out there? John

John, 63

To Michael 57...another chance-in-a-million...Iwas married in 1961, and we were lucky enough to find a flat in East Acton, a few doors along from "Tonys Cafe" ... Tony Coia ran it, and his wife Anna looked after our son David. Tony And Anna had 2 daughters, Rosa and Pamela...just wondered if you were related. Be Lucky.

Wally, 70

I really must clear up Simon 58 perception of the estate. There was no gang warfare, we were too busy trying to survive in an ever changing world at war so many familys got through the problem of survival having husbands, sons, daughters spread over the many fighting zones through out the world. It was the love and support of one neighbour to another that was the cornerstone of our society I must say nobody was allowed to be alone. ~my memories of the estate are always positive, it was a joy to have lived through the really character building times of White City estate. Men like Mick Carter stood head and shoulders above the rest. I hope you will forgive the ramblings of an old man with so many good thoughts and memories.

John L, 78

I still live in White City. I actually stumbled upon this web site because I wanted to know what was on the site before it was built. When I went to Canberra School my teacher Miss Wilcox said it was a swamp. I still haven't found out yet, but I've been facsinated by the stories about the bomb at Blaxland House, I had no idea, but I'm definitely gonna have a look at the block tonight to see if I can see the change in the colour of the bricks. I have memories of the dog track, the paraffin man, the adventure playground, White City pools, Tony the ice cream man, the milkman and his float, George the chip shop man and the General Smuts Pub. Sadly these things no longer exist on the White City Estate. It's still a great place but it's not the same...

Anita, 38

Well Ken, and all the boys and girls of the White City, thanks to this amazing site, and one of our colonial friends "Simon" we are now famous. Can you believe it, our old hunting ground has become a tourist attraction, we will have to see what little titbits we can come up with so that Simon can inform his walkers.

For starters what about the "Silver Cinema"? Then 100 yards away there is the church with the missing steeple, you have a story to tell about that one Ken.

By the way Simon do you know Menai Dillon? She is one of your guides.

Jack, 76

Michael 57, your dad had the best ice cream in the world. I think he had a Daimler van. The chimes played "Take it from here".

Jim McCallum, 71

Maureen, if you read further down the list I mentioned Johnny Bang Bang. He terrified me!! I lived in Ellenborough House but I don't know where he came from.

Mary, 46

My father Tony used to have the Tony Bros of Acton ice cream van which toured the whole of the White City estate selling ice creams. I have many photos of him with hundreds of people queuing for ice cream I will endeavour to find these and post some of them on the site. I am sure that many people will recognise themselves.

Michael, 57

A 3 Wren, Chippy Loa,f Smuts Disco, White City FC, Rhoades House, Bloem, Mr Hopkins, The Chair, Ellersile Rd School, First Mates, Clivey Grey, Iggy English, Red Ash Footy, Collecting Pop Bottles For Cash, Qpr V Chelsea 1970, Newton House Yellow.

Ray Robinson, 47

I went to Hammersmith County school from January 1967 to sometime in 1970. I have very clear memories of being the new girl as I had come to Shepherd's Bush fresh from a convent school in Ireland and I wore regulation school uniform when everybody else customised theirs. This consisted of wearing "tonic" micro skirts and Crombies and heels. There was an edict by the headmistress that skirts had to be a certain length. I went to Christopher Wren drama club and we did a Festival Hall production of the nativity. I remember being jealous that another long haired girl (in the seniors) got the role of Mary. A boy called Steven or Stephen played Joseph. We made ridiculously oversized masks from polysterene foam and our drama teacher was very enthusiastic. I remember school dinners which were great and Katie Schwartz love of cold custard and Alison Noble teasing her. Alison gave us a sex education one day in standing at the board and got caught by Miss Marshall our form teacher. It was hilarious.

My mother never allowed me to invite friends home for tea like the other kids. I went to Blom pool with my sisters and brothers and nearly drowned my sister teaching her to swim. Does anyone remember Jo Vanneck? My mum and her dad got together and we lived in Thornfield Road. Jo taught me to swim lying on a twin bed doing the motions and then at Lime Grove baths which were considerably warmer than Blom! We were packed off to swim and bath there! Does anyone remember my brother Paschal? He attended Christopher Wren at around the same time and I remember he was slippered by the PE teacher too. I was too young to go to classes in the Wren, but was looking forward to being in senior school and envied the older girls filing across to study there. My school life was the happiest for me as things were very out of control at home. I won the English prize every year I was there and my mother only once attended a parents' evening all the time I was there.

What happened to all you guys and girls Katie Schwartz, Alison Noble! Teresa, O'Dwyer, Pam Fletcher, Maria (spanish girl) there were two in our class. I came late and was put in 2A and our year the streams were RAINBOW. If you'd like to get in touch my email is dolores@metafore.com

Dolores, 53

To Paul O'Brien, my name is Marie O'Shea, I was born in the White City estate, and lived there until I married in 1968, I remember your family very well, I dont know who your dad is but Eddie is the nearest to my age I think. I remember Alice when she was married to Brian Favell, I remember Martin used to be good mates whith Freddie Cerisola, John I think married Lea French. I didnt have much to do with Peter and Diane, but used to say hello, I had more to do with Alice because my mate and me used to take her son and young Kenny Favell to the park and for walks in their prams. I remember your grandad Peter very well as he used to drink with my mum and dad in the smuts. I think at sometime when I was quite young he worked at Heinz, beause he used to give (or sell) my mum tinned stuff, he also used to sell her crates of coke - the small glass bottles, he always made a fuss of me, he liked my long red hair, never had a lot to do with your nan, spoke to her if my mum popped in for a cup of tea, but she never went to the pub. I was always there, for my coke and crisps, on a Saturday lunch time, plus you could always bank on collecting a few bob, whatever your dad has told you is probably true, it was a great place to live in them days. You always felt safe although it was a big estate, you still knew a few people from all the blocks, because everybody shopped at the local shops in Blomfontein Road or Shepherds Bush market. So whatever you got up to your mum would always find out because all the other mums knew who you were. No one had much in those days so you made your own fun, we used to play tin tan tommy, cricket or rounders in the court yard, (boys and girls played both), we would play hide and seek, knocking dollies out of bed, and we would play for hours. For an adventure game we had the chinesse jungle and the bomb sites over by White City station, the places you could go in your imagination was amazing and in the summer we would spend most days all day over the pool in Blomfontein Road. Alice would be over there, with Bella Taylor, her kids Kenny and Lorraine, her mum Nora, my mum Winnie O'Shea, me and half the kids on the estate. When we got a bit older there was always a party somewhere and as long as you had a quart of cider you could get in, so we would all club together, someties there might be four or five of you, but you always got in, after all a quart is a quart. I was at many of them with Eddie, his mates and my mates Diane West and Tereasa Whatts. If you want to know anymore come in again and talk.

Marie O'Shea, 61

It's great reading all this stuff, brings back so many memories.  Does anyone remember blind Bill, poor chap, but my cousin bob reminded me the other day how the bump on Bill's head would pulsate when he got excited, ah.  Glad's cafe was the place, I went back several years ago now and her son and daughter were running it.  You would have thought it was Glad and hubby, so alike.

I have great memories of the smuts, and sprintbox.  My dad used to sing in the smuts, Mac the Knife and San Fransciso, sitting on their table would be mum, Mary and Sue and George.  The last song they played was Last Waltz by Englebert Humperdink, god it still gives me shivers when i hear it now.

Thanks to this site, it is so good to remember, I guess not all were happy times, but it was a good grounding.

What about Mr Flyn, does anyone remember him, he lived in my block Charnock and would preach every Sunday over the balcony.  It got on your nerves and one sunday Ronny Court who lived top floor opposite, I think Canning house, decided that he would join the debate, it was so funny, at one point my mum cupped my ears so I wouldn't hear the bad language exchanged.

What about Johnny Bang Bang, no one has mentioned him, why, he was always there scaring the life out of you, jumping out and pretending to shoot you.  God, if you wrote a book about this lot, they would file it under fiction, was it all true?

Does anyone remember the toffee apple man, dirty old bugger, used to touch your bum when he gave you the apple,  a lot of that went on, Father D, shame on you.

Names flashing through my mind, Georgie Manners, Jeffrey Almond, [so handsome], Johnny Cousins, Don Shanks, Ray Barton, Billy Lovell, a guy called Mario, Royston Hughes [naughty boy], and the Naughton boys, with sister Eileen.  Better stop and let someone else give some names.

Can't wait, memories are good stuff.

Maureen Campbell, 58

My name is Marie O'Shea, I was born in 84 Phipps House in 1947. I had two older brothers Mick and John, and a much younger sister Michele, my mum and dad were Winnie and Mick O'Shea. They used to drink in the public bar of the smuts, mum had her stool in the corner of the bar, and nobody but her was allowed to sit on it, they only went in there on weekends, but if a stranger sat on it they were soon warned off, as all the regulars knew not to sit on it.

I remember everything mentionend here, I also remember Phipps House built the biggest bon fires.

Just a quickie for Geraldine 52, Mathews and Son was the butchers in Bloemfontein Road. Barretts was the greengrocers, later to become Riley and Sons.

Marie O'Shea, 61

Hello Ken. Our surname was Hord and the brothers were George, Bill, Ernie, Alan and sister Milly.  Sadly they've all passed. I remember your mum and recall dimly the name Sarsy (a nickname I never knew the origin of). Did you live next door to a family that had a son named Charlie and twin boys one of which was disabled (or maybe my memory's playing tricks.)

I vaguely recall Wormholt Park School, Tony, but not the classmates. I remember you and Terry (Brent) were good friends at 7 or 8 years old. I hope your early life in the flats set you up for a good life in Wiltshire. I know it's a lifetime ago but I wouldn't swap those years in the White City for anything. Most of the families didn't have a pot to p*** in but we still had a quality of life that most people of today would envy. Bread and dripping for breakfast, bread and marge dipped in sugar. (Gourmet delights!)

Wally, we were probably evacuated to Cheshire at the same time but I can't recall the area we were in. You living at number 7 we could probably see each other's back windows across that strange lawned, unused area at the back of the flats.

  Jack, we did indeed live next door to the dust chute. I remember, as a kid with my bedroom backing onto the chute, being woken often by something heavy being sent down from the fourth floor into the large metal bin at the bottom.  

Last year I visited the archives in Hammersmith to try to get photos of the bomb damage done to Blaxland. The photos I found were quite amazing. The fact that only 14 died is amazing considering the damage that was done.  It was sad to see,  looking at newspaper articles from the 70s, that the White City had become virtually a sink estate. The Gazette and Post in April 1979 ran an article about  London's biggest slum. Looking at the White City now it appears to have risen again and become a sought after area to live.  Many of the properties are privately owned and you can now rent a first floor flat in Blaxland for £210 pw furnished!

Vic, 70

All you wonderful people! I am a local tourist guide who has been working for the last 5 years for Hammersmith and Fulham council, with the idea of developing tourism in W12/W14/W8/SW6 etc. I arrived from New Zealand in 1975 and lived with 40008 other kiwis in a two bedroom flat in Holland Road. Since then I have learned more and more, and now take TOURISTS around the White City Estate, as part of a walking tour about the 1908 Shepherds Bush Olympics. Another walk is about SB's heritage in British movie history - Lime Grove Studios, Cinematograph cinema (now Walkabout!) but second oldest purpose built cinema in London after the Electric in Portobello Road, I believe? The Gaumont/Pavillion which was hit by the V1 is still there, now something of a wreck but used privately for fashion shoots and by bands for after-gig private parties. Planning permission has been granted for retail, a hotel and a health club, but they have to keep the exterior - Grade II listed. Cooks Eel and Pie is still there, much used for films - notable the Who's Quadrophenia (debuting Ray Winston and Phil Daniels). But where was the Savoy picture house, that you guys talk about? And was the Blomfontein open air pools where the Janet Adekoke is, or was? That site I suspect is now the controversial flats and health centre designed by Richard Rogers and condemned by Labour but passed by Boris - as having no social housing, only 'affordable' housing.

[Correct, the open air pool was where the Janet Adegoke was and is the site for the Health Centre. The Savoy was at Savoy Circus on the Westway at East Acton. Ed]

Now we have Westfield, the biggest shopping mall in urban Europe, built on the top of the old Central Line sidings. Suddenly all Europe is coming to Shepherds Bush!

I love all your descriptions of gang warfare between the different blocks.  

Given the choice, who would choose a 1960s high rise estate, over a 1930s brick block estate? It's a no brainer!

This is what the web is brilliant for. Cheers.

Simon, 58

All through 1945-48 I went fishing with lad called Ken Morrison whose father was a postman, he lived in Blaxland house ground floor. I wonder if he is still about, also the O'Neils  of Champlain House ground floor. All the best to all WC inmates. Merry Christmas to you all.

John L, 78

Living in White City at Hasting house, going to school at Hammersmith County, Head Mrs Carwharler. Neighbours Margaret and Jimmy Bromfield. Good friends Vivien Smythe, Sandra McCormick and Elizabeth going to Top of the Pops each week.

Brenda Phillips, 56

I really enjoy reading the listings on this superb site. Even though I don't recognise any of the names, the many mentions of activities and events help to bring back memories.

I was evacuated to Staffordshire for brief period during the V bomb attacks and have often wondered where we were placed. Does anyone know if records exist showing where we all went? Did any of you go there?

Still hoping for someone to pop up from Lawrence Close.

Early Christmas greetings to you all. I am delighted that WC should have nurtured such a fine bunch of people who seem to have a great zest for life ... I wonder if this can be traced back to wartime experiences. We all played together and did some amazing things together.

Don Cleary, 72

Hi Vic (70), tell me is your surname Horne? If so, I knew all your family, as the years go buy the memory dims but this site brings them all back. If I can't recall something my old pal Jack Baxter or his family can put me right. What were the names of your older brothers? The reason I ask is that I thought the family that lived at 17 blaxland were the Horne family.

Hi Wally (70), glad I could help, I know what you mean about an hour on the phone when I met him the time just flew by talking about old times and old friends. That's all for now, keep all the memories coming in, wiil write some more soon. P.S. good to see Jack and Tony Baxter pop up.

Ken, 77

It was great to see another one of the old Blaxland house boys find this site, so it's a big welcome to "VIC". I could not recall the name but after speaking to my brother Tony he said straight away "that must be Vic Ord". (I hope i have got the surname right) I remember your mum very well, she was a tall slim lady, and you all lived next to the shoot where the doodle bug fell. A night to remember.

Jack, 76

Hello Vic, Tony Baxter writing. Are you the same Vic I went to Wormholt Park school with, if so we were in the same class together. We moved to Harrow from White City in 1947 and although I kept contact with Terry Brent up to the mid fifties, we went our own ways and I haven't seen him since. I now live in Wiltshire.

This is a great website and brings back many memories.

Tony, 70

To Ken 77...Hi Ken, just to let you know that I've spoken to Ticker and he did recall our family. I spent a lovely hour on the phone swapping stories with him. Thanks a lot for your help.

To Vic 70...Hi Vic. I lived at 7 Blaxland House and though were the same age Idont think we know one another but I was evacuated to Cheshire as well and I've been trying to find out where? But there's just a chance, I suppose that we went to the same place. I was hoping you might remember the place you were billeted. I've always remembered Altrincham but when I went up there I was told that I was probably out in one of the many villages around Manchester. Chance in a million I know. Be Lucky.

Wally, 70

Found this site by accident. It opened up a world of memories.

We moved to 17 Blaxland House following the great slum clearances in 1939. I was one year old. 5 years later the V2 hit the corner of the flats. My parents just survived after a long spell at Harefield Hospital and the kids (all unhurt) were evacuated to Cheshire. We were returned to Blaxland after it was rebuilt. They moved us to 29 Auckland House (across the courtyard) when the family got smaller and I lived there till I was 21.

Looking at all the names and places mentioned in the entries below took me back: Jack's Café, E R Payne (any shoe repairs for Mr Payne please), Tony Baxter, Tony Pople, The Chinese Jungle, The Sharpes (Sarsy), Dennis Binney, The Mannings [Syd, Fred (Chunky) and Geoff], Paddy Dooley, Dave Gordon, Tony Tozer, Godfrey and Ken Wyatt, even as I write new names pop in the head. I used to knock around with Terry Brent (if anyone knows how I can contact him I'd appreciate it). It was through Terry I met my wife but I've forgiven him now!!

I'll continue to look at this site with interest. There's no road like Memory Lane.

Vic, 70

To Paul O'Brien, I remember your lovely family, they lived on the ground floor, Eddie was the one all the girls fancied. I see John now and again, we always go back to the old days of the White City. I went to Hammersmith County and remember Jac'ks sweetshop where you could buy a 2 penny loose. I lived in Charnock House, mum Mary and dad Alec, my brother Alec Campbell. Happy memories of the smuts, a general meeting place. Does anyone remember my cousins, Bob and Dan Casey, Dave and Tom Prosser. Sadly Dave was killed in a road accident. His Dad Charlie is 85 and doing well. Look forward to anyone reading this who remembers the good old days.

Maureen Campbell, 58

Hi to Janet 59. Thanks for remembering Les Tuffy. I was his milk boy for about 3 years.

Jimmy Mac. (McCallum), 71

Hi there just got told of this great website thought I'd write a little memoir.

Moved to white city in 1956 my first school was Ellerslie Road junior where I had a few canings (on the hand) by Mr E. Left there and went to Christopher Wren in Bloemfontein Road. I met Mr Massey who I think was head of year one, also Mr Thornton who was so crafty he would look at you above his glasses while pretending to read a book. Also Mr Cooper who I think was the overall headmaster. There was a nice teacher who used to take us for PE lessons called Mr Parker.

I lived in Hargraves House on Australia Road and my friends and I always had a meeting place where we would get together namely..."The smuts pub". A cafe was at the end of the parade of shops and we used to call it "Glad's cafe" such a lovely lady who did'nt stand for any nonsense. The greengrocers shop was owned by a man called "Fred" always had time to talk and joke. I went into the army in 1967-1973 came out and got a flat in Bentinck House and stayed there for a few more years before finally moving to Hayes area where I still live now. I have so many good memories of White City as it was.

If anyone thinks they may remember me, my e-mail is: bowlerbrw@aol.com

Roy, 60

What an amzing site.

We moved to 77 Champlain House in 1951 when I was 11 months. My father Douglas, my mother Sybil, brother Stephen and my sister Linda. I was the youngest. We moved from Ladbroke Grove where my father's family had settled in the 1880s. I have nothing but fond memories of my time at the White City even though my father died of cancer aged 34 in 1957. Our neighbours were Gerry and Greta Condon and their daughters Marie and Cathy. They were very kind to us when my father died. Their door was always open.

I had a wonderful education first at Coverdale where I attended the nursery with my cousin Janet Joyce who lived in Macfarlane Road (back of the BBC). Then I went to Canberra when I was five. My first teacher was Miss Thomas. I cried when she left and still wrote to her until I was about nine. Our headteacher was Miss Armitage. I was a real chatterbox and was always being sent out of class. In the Junior's Mrs Richardson was the head teacher. I used to love serving her with her tea. I can still remember the tea service she used. I used to run errands for her (this would NOT be allowed now). She used to arrive in a taxi every morning. She left in 1959 and my teacher Mr Briscoe was acting head so we had an Australian supply teacher for a year. This man was obsessed with outer space and we did not learn much at all. Besides Mr Briscoe I can remember Mr Wright, Mrs Peck and Mr Powell who was a very strict man. Mr Wright was a totally amazing musician and artist. I went to Marchant's Hill school camp three times. I remember Vilma Laryea and her brother Wayne. (I visited Mr Brisoce years later when he was the Head of a primary school in Notting Hill and I was a young teacher - he hadn't changed at all).

Then I went on to Hammersmith County in 1960. (I was not at all upset about failing the 11 Plus. We thought the girls who went to Burlington were very snooty and we used to call the boys grammar school St Clement Danes the 'Rusty Anchor'). For the first year we were in the annexe and my teacher was Miss Bowyer. I adored her and wanted to be her. She was killed a couple of years later in Canada. I spent a great deal of time in the library on the Wormholt Eastate. I used to read at least six books a week.

By this time my mother had remarried. We used to attend St Michael and St George's Church. My stepfather was the scout master Alf Parrott. I must admit he did have some very good looking scouts and cubs. His family lived on the ground floor of Grey House. We certainly were kept busy at the church, we had so many activities from pantomimes to Housey Housey (Bingo). On Ascension Day we used to go with the church to Little California, we got the day off school. Two boys who lived in Grey House were Johny Miller and Ricky Da Silva. Ricky I think was from Sri Lanka or Goa (he looked a bit like Cliff Richard). His family were lovely. He was slightly older than us and was head of our gang. We used to walk for miles to Ravenscourt Park. We also used to play Tin-Tan-Tommy, British Bulldog and Knocking Dollies Out Of Bed, the whole gang of us, maybe 10 children.

We used to go to the ABC minors at Savoy Corner, East Acton on a Saturday morning. We were each given a shilling. We used to get the bus there and walk back so we had enough money to buy peanuts. I started going when I was four but you actually had to be seven. I was very tall for my age. The Keen family lived above us in Champlain House. One of the boys was in the navy. They used to drive us nuts playing Frank Sinatra's 'All The Way' constantly. Our neighbour's who lived along the balcony on the third floor were Bert and Joan West. He had a big flash car. He used to take us to Ruislip Lido. Mrs West went to the US in 1959 and he took up with a very glamorous young lady.

I well remember Guy Fawkes Nights. I was absolutely petrified as all the older boys were always throwing bangers at the girls and their fires would be some 50 feet tall on the waste ground between the Smuts and Our Lady of Fatima. The Catholic children were always going into their church and crossing themselves with holy water. We thought they were very strange.

I remember the prefabs well and the Starling family (three sets of twins ) lived there. Audrey Starling was my friend. There was also a midwife in the prefabs and when I was in the Girls Life Brigade she gave us lessons in childcare (I was very rough with the doll they used and felt then as I do now that I would have been a rotten mother). We all spent lots of time swimming either at Lime Grove Baths (my mother used to go there to do the washing) and the open air baths. I used to jump off the top board there, never did learn to dive. I can remember when they opened the new park. Then they closed it as some of the boys killed the ducks. We were not allowed to play on the grass. I also remember the building site that is now the BBC. We were caught by a security guard once, we were looking for old wheels to make a dilly cart. Our milkman was Les Tuffy. He had two sons who were in the scouts. Tony Ice cream was the best in the world. When they held the Tattoo at the White City Stadium the noise over us was deafening.

On greyhound nights some of the children on the estate used to 'mind' cars for a small sum. Very enterprising indeed. I used to go to the Girl's Life Brigade at the Baptist Church in Blomfontein Avenue(?) on a Friday evening and be home in time to see Michael Miles on TV. Mrs Tunnacliffe ran this and she was also a play centre worker at Canberra school. We belonged to the Tenants Association club attached to Canberra and used to go on coach outings to the coast during the summer. Very few people had cars then. The fair at Wormwood Scrubs would always see us coming home with filthy socks. I used to play hockey there when I was at Hammersmith County, then in the second year we went to Barn Elms sports ground. My mother Sybil worked at Livingstone School where Mrs Turner was the headmistress. My brother went to Christopher Wren and my sister Linda went to Hammersmith County. They were both very good athletes. Years later I had the chance to go and speak to the girls at Hammersmith County. I had spent some time in the US and I went to give the 6th form a talk. I could not believe how much the school had changed in nine years. Mini-skirts, jewellery and make-up. We would have been sent home. A couple of years later I applied and got a job as a teacher at Christopher Wren. But I decided I wanted to go into community work. I did a term or so voluntary work there and the youths I worked with in the community were pupils there.

I have to say that I had such a wonderful start in life. The education I had has stood me in good stead. I have travelled the world and have met some amazing people. I have the confidence because I had such a brilliant education. My brother lives in Kuwait and has been in the oil industry for some 35 years (I am sure going to Christopher Wren helped). He still attends QPR when he has leave. My sister lives in New Zealand and is coming over to run the London Marathon in 2010.

Janet, 59

Ken your a Diamond...my number is 01395 578010...thanks a lot.

Wally, 70

Hi all, it's Ken again from Blaxland.
Hi Wally (70), I have made contact with Ticker May, we had a long chat on Saturday, and he said it will be OK to let you have his phone no. so if you let me have your phone no. or email address via this site I will get in touch with you.
                All the best. 

Ken, 77

Hi Valery Harris I remember you and Janet. I will get Ronnie to add a few words on here when I see him again.

Carole Worley, 62

Ken...that's brilliant...and really kind of you to go to so much trouble. It's a chance in a million I know, but the thought of finding out anything about my father at this time of life is more than I could ever expect...Be Very Lucky.

Wally Cotgrave, 70

Hi Wally 70,
I went into a local watering hole today and spoke to the locals, nobody knew the name of Ticker, but they gave me the name of a person who maybe able to help. I went to his house and spoke to his wife and I will see him on Saturday. So hope to be able get some thing for you then. All the best to you and your family.

Ken, 77

Does anyone know where Vivien Smythe is now? She lived in blaxland House and I lived in Hasting House. 1962.

Brenda Dodd, 56

Hi Ken 77...I'd really appreciate anything you could do...my Dad is a mystery to me.

I suddenly remembered my Mum sending me to that very same Greengrocers opposite the pool, for some reason I asked for "Bile Beans" instead of broad beans...I was 9 or 10 at the time...and they never let me forget it. Be very lucky.

Wally, 70

Has any one heard if Freddie Hibbs is still about or Carmody or Alfie Rackham, all past members of White City estate. All the best.

John L, 78

Hi you all,
It's Ken again from Blaxland house. Hi Wally age 70, I ran into Ticker May about 2 years ago at Carpenters Park, South Oxhey I did not know him very well, but he recgonised me because he knew my brothers Harry who worked for Jim Barret, the green grocer opposite the pool in Blomfontien Road and my youngest bro Gerald. Providing he does not owe you any money I can make some enquiries in his local watering hole.

It is so nice to see all the old ones popping up on this site and all the memories it brings back. Kind regards to you all.

Ken, 77

Valery Harris,
If you look at the earlier e-mails on this site you will see that I made refences about the worleys. Do you remember me, your boyfriend of long ago?

Georgie Alderman, who lived ooposite you in Champlain house. I never thought that I would hear from you again!! We were only 6or7 years old but I remember it as though it were yesterday.

So nice to know that you are still around.

George, 70.3/4

Frederick Jackson - I lived in the White City from 1939 - 1948 in Phipps House. I had 2 brothers Eddie and Wally Jackson and three sisters Angie, Peg and Win. I collected the coke (coal) in a pram during the war, does anyone else remember this?

Valerry Harris - I lived in the White City from 1939 - 1948 in Grey House. I had a sister Janet Harris and a brother Brian Harris. My mother Gertrude Harris is now 95!

We both live in Hertforshire now and have been married for 52 years. We recognise the Worely's, does anyone remember us?

Fred Jackson, 74 and Vallery Harris, 70

Does anyone have contact with "Ticker May" from Blaxand House ,I'm trying to find out somethiing...Anything about my Dad, Charlie Cotgrave, I think he worked at Handley Pages at Cricklewood, I think...I vaguely remember going to watch him play cricket there. He'd be about 45 come the end of the War...I always remember him talking to Ticker, who must have been about 17...be Lucky.

Wally, 70

Hi Everyone!

I lived on the white city estate, in Evans house t'ween 72- 78, I was born in Hammersmith hospital and went to Ellerslie school.

I was wonderding does anyone have any (good) memories of my family, my dad's name is Tim, mum - Olive, 6 kids, Tim, Ann, Jackie, Bridget, Peggy and me Paul, I think we lived at number 12 Evans house, I recall it being a great place, the adventure playground, the qpr ground, jubilee 77. I'm 36 now, does anyone from Evans house remember us?

My dad has a huge beard, and had a friend called frank, they use to drink (a lot) in the roebuck pub. I recall the Simm's famly on ground floor, I think number 1? Lisa and Paul, and their parents, also the kids used to watch old movies in Evans house flat, forgot whose flat it was, my dad use to fix cars below by the garages.

At the bottom of our stairwell, an old lady used to try and hit us with a broom lol. I recall a lad my age called Richard, a black family lived above us, great family, but forgot their name?

If anyone remebers us or wants to share any memories.

silentpencil@yahoo.co.uk

thanks fellow dwellers :)

Paul, 36

My time of living in Champlain House would be 1942 this obviously means its before your time but I left in 1953 so I can claim to being a pioneer but lots of good memories. All the best.

John L, 78

Yes, I was Hudson Wanderers keeper...the first one I think...we were brand new I think...Johnny Keneally founded the team...I was known as the "Cat"...or was it "Fat"...Be lucky, Wally [the goalie formerly known as Tubba]

Champlain and Grey houses now have four boys responding to this site. Me, Jimmy Mac, Terry Carter and Tubba Cotgrave. Anymore of you out there and we will catch up with Blaxland house.

George Alderman, 70 3/4

To Tubba 70, I can remember getting large ball bearings to make scooters from one of the factories in East Acton at the end of Wulfstan Street near Old Oak Common Lane.

Arthur, 67

Tubba, was you our goalie for Hudson Wanderers?

Tubba 70, There were a few Tubbas around that time. The only one I remenber in Grey house is Michael Cotgrave. Is it you?

George Alderman, 70 3/4

Does anybody remember the chip vending machine outside the General Smuts?

R, 46

I lived in Blaxland house, [no 7] till just before the rocket hit the block. We had to move to Grey House because my Mum was expecting my brother.
This has brought back lovely memories for me and names I never ever expected to hear again. Georgie Alderman and his brother Tom. Every June we had a Wimbledon fortnight. I used to partner Tom in the "Doubles" I remember him making a Dilly-Cart and scooters with giant ball-bearings, nicked from somewhere or other. He was a lovely, kind fella. I remember Georgie's Mum taking a dozen or so of us kids to see "The Wizard Of Oz" at the Savoy. Me and him were terrified of the witch and ran out onto the Western Avenue.

I remember Ticker May, but it was always my Dad, Charlie, who spoke to him about his footballing skills. My Dad told me that he'd played pro football. We used to have huge football matches in between Grey and Champlain Houses. It sickened me when I was about 10 or 11 the elder lads would knock for my old man rather then me, though I did finally make the grade and there were some tasty players around, names that spring to mind were Ray and Lennie Keen. Ray was known as "Kipper Keen" because of the way he walked. Ray was my childhood Hero. Len taught me to swim at the Blomfontien baths, I swim every day down here in Devon and there's hardly a day goes by that I dont remember his immaculate style. I was sick when he went and joined the Navy. He was on the Vanguard I think. Jimmy and Chrissie Roome were another pair of footballing brothers. I learnt a lot from Chris footballwise. It's just dawning on me how much I did learn in those playgrounds. There were a lot of brothers around at that time, Terry and Brian Cole, Bobby and Dereck Birch — my wardrobe was a direct copy of Bobbys', white plimsols, jeans, short-sleeved shirt and a navy-blue pullover. My misses moans at me to this day for wearing the same set-up — John and Danny Walsh, The Wilding brothers...

Lovely, lovely times.

Tubba, 70

I have vivid memories of breaking the ice each year at the Blomfontein pool.
Memories of Michael Brook, Roy Hiller, Mike Samuels, Chris Romain (great wicket keeper) and teachers such as messrs Boot, Ruben (geography), Philips (Chemistry-of sorts) and Tasch (inspirational English).

Gerry, 64

Hi - what a lovely site! I lived at 32 Lawrence Close from 1950 till 1957 and yes, we did have fun without much trouble either! I had a brother called August. I went to Coverdale School in Shepherds Bush and then Mary Boon Technical College when I was 12 I remember Paula Clapp and an Yvonne. My father was an Engineer in the Merchant Navy so he was away a lot. My mother was foreign and whenever someone was poorly she made them a lovely chicken soup to help recovery. There was a lad who lived in Hargreaves House called Micky Bardwell who liked me even though I was only a kid, teenage crush or what! When dad was home he and mum had a drink in the Colonel Smutts (I think). We loved the open air pool and had loads of innocent fun. I moved to Roehampton and then California where I married. However have been back in the UK for many years now. Thanks for the memories.

Helena, 62

Perhaps I should have explained the below message ... I'm not trying to sell the flat ... merely to give you the link so that you can see L/Close as it is today. I have details of a website for an estate agent showing a flat for sale in Lawrence Close. It includes a 360 degree piece of film showing Lawrence Close as it is now, much improved from the one of my memory. If anyone wants the link I will send it - since it can't be listed here, being an advert for the agency, so email me and I'll send it through, don.cleary@doncleary.co.uk

Don Cleary

Two photos of Champlain House and Grey house. V.E. Day Party. Can you see any body you know?

Jimmy Mac

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George 70, wakeup you are late for school!

John O'Shea, 64

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I have details of a website for an estate agent showing a flat for sale in Lawrence Close. It includes a 360 degree piece of film showing Lawrence Close as it is now, much improved from the one of my memory.
If anyone wants the link I will send it - since it can't be listed here, being an advert for the agency, so email me and I'll send it through, don.cleary@doncleary.co.uk

Don Cleary

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Hello Peter Rush,
Yes I remember Ian and Robin Bushell as babies and their mum Gwen. They lived next to us at 11 Blaxland, their dad Sid was a Gold Beater and said it was all high security. My dad said "a few flakes of gold foil in the turnups would not go amiss". So sorry you can't remember the train set but more sorry to hear about your mum. My dad fell to Alzhiemer over twenty years ago and know precisely what you are feeling at times. The fact that your mum is remembering my mum Bette Tozer is not surprising.

My dad would swear he could see fire and flames on his balcony in Wimbledon but there was nothing there. These were flash backs to his days dduring the war when he was an auxialary fireman. He never spoke to us children of those times.

Peter Tozer, 64

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Every Tuesday morning I was sent to Shepherds Bush market and join the group waiting for the dog meat man to open for business, it was to get some meat for totter Davis's dog. Of course this was during war - 1944/45 - you can't imagine any person being able to walk away from lessons just like that, even if was a good cause.

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I think it was unfair to put the article about dog meat with out saying Mr Davis was my teacher at Wormholt park school and the period was 1943 I hope this clarifies things. All the best.

John L, 78

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Notice the age change; another year older and deeper in debt.
Does anyone remember a young child, age maybe 2 falling from a second floor window in Lawrence Close and just bouncing ... amazingly all OK! It must have been when I was about 6, so around 1942.

Don, 73

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If you messed with Champlain House boys, you got whacked! So did anyone messing with our huge bommies!! We duffed up you Phipps House boys many times!!! Champlain House and Grey house had the biggest and best bommies every Guy Fawkes night. Any White City Boys who dispute that, will be duffed up by me and Jimmy Mac.
"Now, now girls, stop arguing! - Ed"

George, 70

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It's no good dreaming that you had the biggest bommie if you did not live in Champlain House.

Jimmy Mac, 71

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I have strong memories of my sister Margaret joining a queuing group, which you always did in those days of shortages, and after having a discussion about the weather she asked what are we queuing for the answer she got was 'confession'. It caused a fair amount laughing and ribbing! Keep trying, all the best.

John L, 78

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Hi, I lived in Phipps house for about 26 years on the 3rd floor next to the staircase No84 [mum Winnie and dad Mick, one bruv and two sisters] moved away in 1968 down to Hanwell not too far. We had a little black dog called Mickey, nasty little sod bite your hand off if he got the chance. I know that you could not keep dogs in the flats but no one said anything, so we had him for about 16 years, great little dog. I hope someone picks this up and writes back. What's this about Bommys everyone knows that we had the biggest one - still have.

John O'Shea, 64

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I went to Ellerslie Junior School, then I went to Christopher Wren Secondary School, Blomfontein Road. I remember climbing over the wall of the open air swimming pool and skinning dipping in the pool with my mates. I remember when they closed the pool down and opened it up as a skateboarding park. I was about 10, (1972) when Cliff Richard had a television show and they did a comic sketch outside one of the shops on Blomfontein Road. My favourite memory is going down Goldhawk Road with my Mum on a Saturday and having pie and mash. A funny memory in the early seventies, when the council put anti-mugger lights on one of the buildings. Somebody pinched them. Ellerslie school no longer exists as far as I know, they have built houses there now. Queens Park Rangers looks a lot different now. I sort of went out with a girl called Sharon Burns in Mitchell House for a short time before she moved. I went down to White City a few months ago and it doesn't look like it used to.

Laurence, 46

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Just found this site, and what memories you have all stirred up.

After being bombed out in Battersea we went to live with my Nan in Melletius Street East Acton, my mum two brothers and myself moved to Phipps House in 1947 I think no 94. Some memories, going up Scrubs Lane to the fun fair, going along the canal to Old Oak engine sheds, fishing in the canal with a bike rim covered in a sack,watching the paratroopers practising from a barrage balloon on the Scrubs, playing in the bombed church down Ducane Road, Saturday morning pictures at the Savoy, getting into the old Wood Lane underground station dressing in a white sheet and standing on the platform in the dark, collecting pennies for the guy outside the dogs, scrounging old furniture for the bonfire, any we got from other then the ground floor it was chucked over the balcony, seeing the trucks pick up families from Hudson Close to go hop picking, going to Lime Grove swimming baths and having a cup of oxo before you left and walking back through Shepherds Bush market, through the chinese jungle and out by the army camp, lying in bed listening to the trains shunting on Old Oak sidings, going up North Pole Road to the Gas Works with an old pram to collect coke, I also remember the prefabs opposite Champlain House.

Like some of you I also also did a shoe round for Paynes, can any one remember collecting from the Peabody Buildings or remember Mr Paynes old Daimler car.

Started school in East Acton then on to Addison Gardens, started work in January 1956 at Rolls Royce's in Hythe Road, Willesden.

Some names I remember from Phipps House are Len and Rita Grey I think they lived in 97, and Louis Azzopardie who lived on the top floor, I think his parents came from Gibralter, My mum Amy was friendly with someone on the ground floor opposite Hudson Close where many of the mums got together talking about the war years. Can anybody remember going to see Bill Hayley at the Hamersmith Odeon, I think that was 1955/56.

We moved away to a house in the country around 1957 sadly our mum died in 1958 so I am asking does anyone remember the three Smith boys.

Thanks for this site, I will close for now but I'll be back.

Arthur, 67

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Don, of course the age gap was greater then, my brother Tom (deceased 2000), was the same age as you and he hated me hanging on to his shirt tails. My eldest brother Pat is 74 now, he had little to do with taking care of little Georgie!!

Dad was away in India and of course Mum worked all day, and we were left to our own devices. Lawson house is across the waste ground from Champlain, I remember a boy who lived in Lawson named David North, or was it South? I had lots of good friends from all over the Flats and Wormholt Park and Shepherds Bush.

After National Service in the Corps of Royal Military Police, A whole gang of us 20 year old lads used to meet at the General Smuts or the Western at East acton, to wreak havoc at the local dance halls etc. In 1963 I met my lovely wife and that phase of my life ended.

After living in Chiswick, Luton, Bracknell, and Wokingham We retired to Poole in Dorset where I still live. A few months ago We went to Hertfordshire to spend some time with my greatest pal Jimmy mac, prior to that I hadn't seen him since 1963, we had a great time. Jim's Mum and my Mum were good friends and when they went shopping they put me and Jim in one of those great big prams they had in those days, so we have known each other all our lives.

Names of boys I used to know keep coming back to me. If anybody out there remembers me please let me know.

Thanks. Keep smiling, cheers. George Alderman.

George, 70

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Pope John RC School, with Mr Daly. Ives John and Patrick, the naughty kids in the class who gave Mr Daly hell, ha ha. Johnny bang bang (as he was known) and Winky Johnson with his dog Pooch who I was terrified of. Remember those old sheds round the corner from Ellenborough house that always seemed empty. Had lots of fun knocking on doors and running away around those long balconies and down those many stairways.

Mary, 46

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All us oldies from the flats. Didn't we have good fun. Not a pot to pee in but made our own entertainment. Saturday morning pictures at the Savoy. Then on the 105 bus to Shepherds Bush Market for Cooks Pie and Mash. Back home to Champlain House. (Who had the biggest bonfire). Gawd bless you all.

Jimmy Mac, 71

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I would like to hear more from George Alderman. Adrian Pack was a bit younger that me, so George may have been more likely to be his buddy since age gaps meant a lot then, just a couple of years difference moved you into a different group. George, do you remember the rest of the Pack family? I seem to recall that the older boys came up to Staffs in a truck to collect their evacuated family after we were sent away at Doodle Bug Time - collecting my mum and I in the process. My brother Bernard came up with them. We arrived back just a short time after the bomb hit Blaxland, maybe 2/3 weeks.

Any more news George? Where did you live?
Cheers, Don Cleary

Don Cleary, 72

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Don Cleary, If you look down through the e-mails you will see that I mentioned that it seemed to be all Blaxland house. Me and my old pal Jimmy Mac, tried to gee up people from other flats to respond. Terry Carter also from our turf has e-mailed.

Although I lived in Champlain house, I had many friends from all over the White City and Sheperds Bush. We are almost the same age group so I might have known you!! I lived there from 1939 to 1951 when we moved to East Acton. But I used to return to the flats and my friends. We used to call it the Chinese Jungle.

Everybody has there own memories of those far off days, but they all are familiar to all of us White Cityites. Champlain and Grey house, ruled the roost, we could and did beat all comers and we had the biggest and best bonfires on Guy Fawkes Night!!!
God bless.

George Alderman, 70

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So far, it seems that most people who survived the war and who are still fighting off the Grim Reaper, came from Blaxland House. Lawrence Close gets little mention, but then perhaps the Blaxland Bunch are the only one's who can write after our collective lack of education.

Thank you for all the wonderful memories. I have been posting them to my 'kids' (nice to be able to talk the way we used to then, we would never use words like offspring) and they are delighted by all the memories listed ... I think they are more 'relieved' than anything, since it shows that the 'old man' has not been 'shooting a line' with hard to believe stories about life on a dump which grew to incredible heights, and about a wonderland discovered behind a fence and hidden since 1910, where small streams meandered around Japanese pagodas, where little Japanese wood bridges crossed over and where the place was alive with newts. Did I really experience such wonderful things? Was everything hanging with overgrown creeper and were there really exotic Japanese shrubs in full bloom? Broken glass littered the floor of the pagoda of my memory and crunched as we walked about in a stupified silence just staring at these amazing sights.

Those older Blaxland boys and girls certainly appear to have been involved in much that happened and it would not surprise me one iota if they were not at the head of the surging mob which fell upon the unsuspecting guards of the army depot, not to mention the coal store. Did they I wonder just take the silver from the dump trucks ... or was there really an organised raid on the bank. Nothing would surprise me now about the notorious Blaxland Mob.

As you can see, my mind is doing crazy things to me in my dotage. Come on Lawrence Close, let's fight back a little.

Cheers to you all, don.cleary@doncleary.co.uk

Don Cleary, 72

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Now there is a blast from the past, Agey Pack was a very good friend of mine. I last saw him in the Henley area about 1972. I hope that he is still with us and very well.

George Alderman, 70

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My name is Cleary. I lived at 15 Lawrence Close. I have lots of memories but being born in 1936 I was just one of the little sprogs following in the heels of the older boys. My brother Bernard (six years older) returned to WC after evacuation to the west country and was back there when the bomb fell on Blaxland. I had been evacuated with the second wave, when the doodle bugs started, although I do remember seeing them and was away for a few months. I also experienced two of the rockets falling after we returned. WC was an incredible experience for a young kid. No education to speak of since schools were closed but I'm sure that life on the dump, the raiding of the army depot, breaking into the Japanese Gardens and the warfare between the different blocks, was a character forming lifestyle ... you can get glimpses of this in discussions with others who went through it, they all seem to have acquired an extra zest for life from those exciting early days.

I am in touch with Ken Sharpe and Jack Baxter, so many early memories now being confirmed by these esteemed leaders.

Since I left WC at about the age of nine I find it difficult to remember other names but I do remember the Pack family and Adrian Pack.

don.cleary@doncleary.co.uk

Don, 72

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Well Peter 63 going on 64, It is I the young Rush Boy I can't for the love of me remember the Train your mother gave me but what is really bizarre this is the second time the Toza name has been mentioned in the last month. My mother Ivy is not too well and has dementia, on a recent visit to her she referred to a Mrs Toza (your mum) which was a name I had not heard for many years and now it crops up again.

I had two mates who lived on the ground floor at Blaxland house can't remember the number they were Robin and Colin Bushell both about my age and remember their dad making a fort for months out of some hard board. Little did I know it was for me as a Christmas present from my Mum. I also remember the winkle man who came around every Sunday afternoon and if we were lucky we got some and maybe half pint of shrimps too.

Peter, 51

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I remember going to Queens Mill School, Fulham and going to Bishops Park and buying an ice cream off the lady outside the Park.  To my knowledge must have been there over 20 years and then we moved to Shepherds Bush and I attended Wormholt School and we had a school disco and they played Sugar Sugar, cannot remember the band.  Then I went to Christopher Wren in 1968 to 1972 and remember getting the slipper off Mr Powell, the Rugby Teacher and going over the shops and buying a chippy loaf. My mother lived on the White City Estate in the late 40s early 50s.  My Grandparents Albert James and Mary James and children Eileen, Patrick, Maureen and Molly can't remember exactly where.

Paul, 51

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I am reminded by Fiona 71 of the Rush family and Jonny Rush was one of my associates at Blaxland, I lived on the ground floor at No.10 and thus we shared the same stairway. At some time about 1956/7 Mrs Rush had another child , a boy, and when the child was very young maybe only 4 the father John died.

I had a train set one of those Hornby double 'O' gauge clockwork affairs that had two brass handle push rods to STOP / START and FORWARD / REVERSE. I used to run this up and down the hallway in the flat and generally got in everyone's way. One day my mother said would I mind if we gave the train set to the young Rush boy as I had long out-grown it. Every time I see on TV one of these train sets being up for auction I think of my Train set and the Rush boy, who I now think was named Peter Rush. I wonder what became of them. I also remember David Poxon, we both when to Canberra School till we were 11 years, he went on to North Hammersmith and I went to Addison Gardens, We would race each other home from school at lunch time and back again after. When we left Canberra I hardly ever saw him again.

Canberra School was great, my favourite teacher was a Mr Stewert who taught History, and of course it was all English and colonial history. Miss Knight taught us English, Mr Long taught Maths (Arithmatic) he was tall and balding. He married Miss Short and I think she was our singing mistress. the school song was Waltzing Matilda - naturally. On leaving I remember David Poxon and I saying our tearful goodbyes to our then class teacher Mr Wyatt, he was a smashing teacher and I suppose in a way we loved him. Mrs Richardson was the Headmistress then.

I shall be 64 this 14 August 2008.
Now does anyone remember Wormholt Infants School?

Peter, 63/64

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For any of you interested in the early history of White City I would suggest you try to visit Fulham Palace, in Bishops Avenue, Fulham. They have an exhibition running until 21st September 2008. The exhibition features the Franco-British Exhibition of 1908 and also the olympics that took place the same year at the White City Stadium.

Peter, 58

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Thanks for the memories of the Wren and Blom 59-65. Rowing at Barnes was fun and helped me join a club at Hammersmith after leaving the Wren. The names of teachers had been forgotten but are comming back after reading the other memories.

Ted, 58

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Just want to say how much I enjoyed my trip to White City Estate this past May. I met up with Rene Mackerness (Baxter) in Shepherds Bush, had Pie and Mash in the shop  that has been there since I was a kid. It was still yummy as it was then. Rode the bus to Ducane Road and walked over the bridge and on to the flats.  How thrilled I was to see them and to see the great improvements over the years. Age and pains prevented me from walking futher but one day I hope to go again.

I also met up with Jack Baxter and Ken Sharpe and wives in Luton, we had lots to talk about and it was great. Thanks Guys for the lovely lunch. I have found a few more photos of some of the cycle team and helpers, but have no idea who they are. Hopefully some of you can put names to them.

A word to Fiona Rush (Bruce) I should know you but can't recall you. We were close friends of the Devines, June and Doreen, never knew Dennis as he was younger. Doreen came to Canada after her two children were born. We were friends but never saw each other until 2005 at our 50th anniversary, unfortunately Doreen passed away less than a month later. It was quite a shock. June went much earlier.

Also a note to the person who spoke about the teachers, I had Mrs. Bircheknof as a teacher. They were married during school terms. Hope the following pics bring back more memories.
All the best to everyone.

Jeanne  Reed (Wilman), 75


Barry Wilman, 2nd row, Cyril Sharpe, middle


Unknown


John #2 Alan #3 Bevans


Ken Sharpe,- Sid Rouse, J. Bevan, Jackie Zetta


Ken Sharpe, John Bevan


Unknown

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John Leggett, It has long been a story in my family that we were in the Gaumont Shepherds Bush the night it was hit by vi rocket. We had just arrived home when an almighty bang went off. It wasn't until next morning that we learnt that the cinema was hit.

It lay derelict for years, with the poster showing Tawny Pipit still on the side of the building.

As my old mate Jimmy Mac says don't mess with the Champlain and Grey house boys!!! Happy days. (well, maybe).

Anybody remember the Kelehers who lived in Ellenborough House. Big Jim was a great pal of mine.
George Alderman.

George, 70

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I lived in East Acton but went to Pope John School when it first opened. I was amongst the first leavers in 1967, and vividly recall the cafe with my mum treating me to chips and orange squash! A greengrocers in Blomfontein Road was named 'Mathews and Son', the same name as a song by Cat Stevens, that was in the charts at that time. I remember Angela Brett who lived opposite the school.

Gerardine, 52

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Before any one says different to George's comment about Champlain and Grey house ruled. Remember there are still a few of us about. On a serious note these memories are great. Champlain, Grey house and QPR. for ever.

Jimmy Mac, 70

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To John, 57, I was a year ahead of you and remember all the people you mentioned very well.  Ray Ault was my next door neighbour at St.Stephens Ave.  As for Wren the best thing for that place would have been a flame thrower!  Hated it with a passion (see my earlier post).

Jim, 58

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To Michael 62,
you made a mention of the smogs we were plagued with. At that period I was courting a female who lived in Hanwell, I used to catch the 105 bus to ~Greenford and walk through. Now on three occasions I caught the late night bus home. After paying my fare I had to help the conducter by taking a flaming torch and walking home guiding the driver. You always rallied round in times of trouble. Best of luck.

John L, 78

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I was at Christopher Wren school from 1962 until easter 1966. Looking back it must be said that the school was a marvel. How many other schools at that time had three gyms, a purpose built theatre (complete with electric organ and piano) and proper workshops where you could learn plumbing, brickwork and clay modelling (with a proper kiln) alongside the usual metalwork and woodwork classes. I remember some of the teachers with great affection especially Mr Massey (French), Mr Mitchell (English) and John Windsor who was a bit of a scooter riding mod and taught art(s) and rowing. I also remember John Thornton who taught maths and always appeared to be a bit drunk. I remember him mostly for the fact that, far from teaching me anything about maths, he sharpened my ability for dodging flying objects by constantly throwing the blackboard eraser at boys committing some perceived transgression while shouting "that boy" at no one in particular. I also remember being bussed on Friday's to Sudbury playing fields allegedly to play football, rugby or cricket but most often ending up doing cross country running which I hated. I bunked off most Fridays for the first two years until I was lucky enough to get on the rowing team. I also remember the school sports day at White City stadium which, I think, was in 1964. There was a boy at the school, whose name was Vince, who used to get tickets for shows at the BBC in Shepherds Bush and when I see clips of old Crackerjack programs on TV I see rows of boys with the Christopher Wren badge on their blazers. The two guys I remember most are Ron Jenkins and Roger Mintern. Ron was a good guitarist and I was in his band as the singer for a while. He actually taught me a few bits on the guitar which got me started on a long and fairly lucrative career in the music business to the point that I was able to retire in 2004 at age 53, so thanks Ron. Other guys I remember are Ray Ault, Frannie Carrol, Mick Buxton, John Kissoon (who became an actor and was in Star Wars or Battlestar Gallactica), Mick Ryan and Jimmy Cousins (who moved to Borehamwood). I hated going to school and avoided it whenever possible so I must say thanks to all the teachers who were there at that time who ensured that I got a good education despite myself.

John, 57

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To Ken (76)
Re your query about Maurice Pardey. Sadly Maurice passed away two days ago on 02/07/2008. His funeral will take place in Bridlington on Thursday 10/07/2008 at 1p.m. His wife is Margaret Pardey. My next door neighbour has E-mail and will be able to accept any queries e-mail address; bettyconway@btinternet.com

Maurice Pardey, 76

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Hello Kenneth 70, we talk about Wormholt Park school do you remember Mr Birchinof who was making a shine to a gorgeous female teacher whose name I can't recall. Every one was happy to hold a conversation with her in the playground. I still hold fond memories of those days when the London auxilery fire brigade had the whole of the ground floor as a depot and we were all limited to one playground which also contained the British restaurant which meant it was open to the public.

In those days the cane was always held in Totter Davis's classroom and it was never spared - what a thought in this day of political correctness. I was none the worse for the odd beating.

John L, 78

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John Leggett, I remember now, you were on same floor as me. Also on our floor I remember the Larges and the Rackhams. There was a Dog called Tiger and your dog Nigger.

To the Blaxland mob, I was a school friend of David Mohamed, and I knew a girl I think from Blaxland, her name is Joan? Poxon! I knew the Elsies very well, Jimmy was a good friend. Voilet Greenaway I knew her from our schooldays.

It was well known in the White City that the Champlain and Grey house boys ruled.

They were tough times, but I do have happy memories of those days so long ago. Cheers and God bless.

George Alderman, 70

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My family and I moved to 117 Phipps House in 1939. My parents were Lottie and Arthur Hicks and there were four children, Dennis now 77, Joyce 75, Doreen 74 and myself 71. Most of the things Fiona Bruce has said, I remember very well. I also remember the muffin man coming around on Sunday as well as Sailor Jack Johnson selling his shell fish. Also the man with his horse and cart selling vinegar and block salt and he would weight out however much you wanted. We moved to 32 Hargreaves House in 1948 and moved again to Baird House in 1951, where I lived until I got married in 1956.

I had a very happy childhood growing up in the White City even though there was a war on and all the railings were taken away and things were pretty tough. Does anyone remember the pig swill vans coming around to empty the bins.

I have been married 52 years to Rick who came from Holland Park and have three children, eight grandchildren and soon to be a great grandma.

Another thing I remember clearly is the Fish and Chip van that used to be opposite Hargreaves House a couple of times a week. Boy did those chips taste good and we all used to congregate outside the telephone box near the chip van.

I remember Mick Carter the porter and if I am right, I think he covered a couple of blocks of flats. He looked after everthing so well and was pretty strict, but all the kids respected him.

During the air raids we would go down the shelters that lay between the u-bend shape of Phipps House. I can remember when I was four going down from the top floor and going in the shelters. I never liked the smell of them, but we had a lot of fun in ours with people playing the accordian and having a good old sing-song.

Some of the people I remember well in Phipps House are Grace, Georgina and John Leach, Brenda Bishop, The Turners, Dickie and Sheila Vines and the rest of their crew. Mrs Vines looked after me for a while while my mum worked in the munitions factory at Park Royal. The Hood family on the ground floor. The Cox's on the top floor alongside us, The Ross's next door. My best pal, June Saunders lived below us on the 4th floor and her brother Dennis and my brother were pals too. We stayed in touch until her death about 10 years ago at the age of 61. The Greens lived next door to them and the Rose's next. Also Margaret and David Boulter on the 2nd Floor In Hargreaves I remember the Davis's, Vi, Chas and I can't remember the other ones and June and John Allen on the top floor. I remember the Elsey family in the block opposite to Phipps and bumped into Maureen in Uxbridge last year.

I went to Ellerslie Road Primary School when I returned from evacuation and then on to North Hammersmith Secondary School for Girls along with my two sisters. My brother went to Bryony Road Central.

Fiona Bruce and I had many of the same friends and went around quite a lot together and I was also friendly with Maureen Watts.

I have only just found out about this site from Fiona and have found everything so interesting although I can't put faces to some of the names. I think I have waffled on enough for now, but would love to get in touch with anyone who knows me.

To Jeanne Reed,
I Loved all your photographs shown, but wondered whether the boy on the right hand side of the four boys in bathing suits was Dickie Vines? Do you know his name?

To Joe, 70
I remember the prefabs very well and used to walk past them every day on my way to school. If I remember rightly there was a lady that lived in one of them that gave birth to either two or three sets of twins which was some kind of a record and she was featured in the local papers. Do you remember her? I just loved the prefabs and always wanted to live in one but unfortunately I never did.

June Guainiere (nee Hicks), 71

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Our family (Bruce) came down from Scotland in February 1947. We lived at 109, Blaxland House, which was on the top balcony. Our neighbours were the "Catlins" and the "Wyatts", further along the balcony lived the "Mohameds" who had a son called David, and at the end of the balcony lived the "Poxons". My name is Fiona Rush (nee Bruce), but was known as "Flo". I was ten when we came to the White City; I had two sisters, Olive and Mary, and one brother Eric who was in the Royal Navy.

I went to Ellerslie Rd. School with the girl next door Pat Catlin, and was teased because of my Scottish accent. My teacher was called Miss Sayers and was very nice. My sister Mary, who was three years older than me, went to North Hammersmith School for girls with Jean Wyatt who lived at no 111.

I eventually went to North Mammersmith School for Girls, and became friendly with a girl called June Hicks who lived opposite in Hargreaves House. June also had two sisters and one brother. I recently met up with June through friends re-united, so we had lots to talk about.

My memories of White City are looking over the balcony at the barrow boys selling cherries or apples, and my elder sister Olive rushing down to buy some. I also remember the man on his bicycle selling sherbert (lemonade powder), but best of all the Walls ice cream man on his bike. Later came Tonie's Italian ice cream, I can still remember the music he played.

I remember how we use to queue up on hot summer days to get into Blomfontein swimming baths, where I learnt to swim using a rubber ring. I remember walking along the Westway to go to the library, and to meet up with school friends who lived near East Acton, Anne Birch and Janet Walker (I think). Sometimes we would go to the pictures at the Savoy in East Acton.

I remember getting the 105 bus to Shepherds Bush, and the 72 to Hammersmith.

I can remember Shepherds Bush market where we would go on a Saturday to browse.

I can remember playing cricket in the streets with some boys; I can only remember a couple of their names though, Ronnie Sharpe, who we called Sarcy, and Dennis Devine, I introduced Dennis to another school friend of mine called Maureen Watts who lived near Shepherds Bush. They later got married.

When I was about 15 or 16, I became friendly with a chap called Cyril (Ticker) May, who also lived in Blaxland House and was a reserve player for Queens Park Rangers, he took me to see Frank Sinatra when he came over, how lucky was I!!

I remember being friendly with a girl from Phipps House whose father was a coalman; I think her name was Bella Taylor.

One day the Rush family moved into 87 Blaxland House, there were two boys and three girls, John, Frank Sandy, Joan and Sheila; their parents were John and Ivy. I ended up marrying John, and we had two lovely children, Paul and Lorna.

Unfortunately John and I are now divorced, but remain good friends.

I hope someone can remember me; I lived at the White City for 20 years until John and I moved to Tring in Buckinghamshire.

Fiona, 71

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John L, Many thanks for the kind words about my father Mick Carter, porter of Champlain. He definetly was no nonsense and stood even less from me. :)

Terry, 70

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Early on in the war on the corner of Uxbridge Road and Shepherds Bush Green a cinema was bombed and damaged. The current film at that time was THE TAWNY PIPPIT and it was on display for over five years in giant letters. I still do not know what it was all about but it became a landmark.

When we talk about the bombing of Blaxland I am not sure if I spelt it right but that was VII the German rocket, there was no warning from them. A second one landed on a pair of houses just behind East Acton Odeon on the road to Acton Town, there was a bus right opposite and the driver killed. I was on the scene within a couple of minutes, we could do nothing for him but cuddle him til he passed. What a strange way of life, to be recounting, you never knew what fate had in store from day to day. I cant be the only one to have witnessed these events. Best of luck to you all.

John L, 78

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I lived in Havelock Close from 1939 to 1954. We lived just a cross the road oppposite Blaxland where the doodle bug dropped. Its just great to read all the letters and smashing memories.

As kids we loved the street parties. Does anybody remember the fire on the dump? Lime Grove film studios had explosives stolen. Jackie May from Blaxland was seriously injured when he attempted to push an explosive onto the fire - suddenly it exploded!

I remember every Saturday going to the pictures in Shepherds Bush singing We are the White City Boys! Just great great memories.

Does anybody remember 'IVY'the colourful Fruit and Veg man? He use to sing 'Just like the ivy on the old garden wall' Anybody from Havelock Close remember 'Peanut' and 'Dolly Fidget'? Most of the neighbours were frightened of 'Peanut' because he use to come home drunk and he acted very scary. However one night he come and stared through the window of our scullery. My dad was sitting down having a fry up. Instead of going out to Peanut my dad stood up against the window with a saucepan on his head. Peanut was terrified and bolted!!

Ken, 72

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My memories of Victory in Europe was a party which lasted 4 days. It was held in front of the chute in Gray House. Piano and lots of very talented people who suddenly came out of the woodwork, the whole thing surprised us all and it was kept going in relays.

John L, 78

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Hi John L, 78 of Champlain House.
What memories you stirred at the mention of Totter Davis and Jockey Smythe at Wormholt School, did you go to Old Oak School for wood work, the teacher had a hook on one arm (nickname hookey) and of course I knew Ron Broadbridge and all the others you mentioned. About the dump, did you sort the debris when the land mine exploded on the bank next door to the Telegraph pub by the bush green, we had pounds. My mum and I were in the shelter, it had all the debris on it when the doodle bug dropped on Blaxland House.

That's all for now, I lived at 24 Blaxland House and left school in 1945, all the best to you Ken Sharpe.

Kenneth, 77

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To George, my dog's name was nigger. It's nice to know he was remembered. You must have been 5 doors away from me but it is the age gap which probably affects my memory. I am in contact with the Moony's, are there any others from the wartime days. I will confirm the bombed rubble built to the height of the flats which was their way of storing it. Many thanks for your help.

John L, 78

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I must say Mick Carter was the finest porter around, he stood no nonsense from anyone, what a joy to have him about. I lived in 29 Champlain house from 1941-53 lots of very good memories; Bobby Wigley, Albert Gadsen, Tod Culerton, Jean-Eileen Palmer, Joyce Gray, Ronnie Rroadbridge and many more such joy to read the comments. I went to school under the reign of Totter Davis and Jockey Smythe they were their knicknames.

Mention was made of the army stores I lived next to them in Champlain house. We all had a revolver or pistol, the security was lax, the area was covered in prophelactics, to the embarassment of the local mothers we thought we had found a supply of balloons. But it was all clean fun. So many who lived there were all good pals. I am trying to find how to use IT I hope this all makes sense! Best wishes.

John L, 78

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I didnt live in White City, but lived in the Askew Road area and went to Christopher Wren. I went to Christopher Wren School from 72-78 and was in Gibbons (Blue House). I can surprisingly remember a lot about the school, but the thing that sticks in my mind the most, was the sheer size of the place and the fact that as a first year, we had to wait right until everyone else had eaten before we could eat.

I remember that my first teacher was a lady called Miss Glossop. She was half French on her mother's side and taught us French as well as English. The teachers that I remember from the time that I was there are as follows: Miss Glossop, Miss Bub (or Dub), Mr Harrison, Mr Middleton, Mr Johns (Maths), The enigmatic Mr Toms, Mr Gordon (Stewart Gordon, Chemistry Teacher and Year Master), Mr Williams (Bowler), Mr Williams (The welsh one!), Mr Hooton (Head Master), Mr Carter (Deputy Head), Mr Phillips (later deputy head and was an ex-policeman), Mr Redaway (English Teacher), Mr Stoddard (brilliant American Man), Mr Sookoo (Biology Teacher, don't mess with him), Mr Fotheringham (Science Teacher), Could never forget Mr Powell (John Powell, PE teacher and sometimes Biology Teacher), Mr Rouse (PE Teacher and sometimes Maths Teacher), Mr Kidna (PE Teacher), Mr Bartlett (PE Teacher, very good at Basketball), Mr Ryder (History Teacher), Mr Beasley (Woodwork), Mr Scanlon (Metal Work), Mr Phillips (Physics Teacher), Mr Rutt (Tim Rutt or Beethoven, Maths and Science teacher), there are loads more. As for class mates, for some strange reason, I still remember the names of the majority of my class mates becaue I can remember the register that was read out every morning (Sad I know!). I was in A3 and the names were as follows: Jeffry Alan, Paul Ashby, Steven Barrs (Maggot), Harold Bridgeman (Now Deceased), John Carr (Big John), Paul Davis (Dogsy Davis), Francis Doyle (Pat Doya), Cliff Edwards, Shola Faponle, Jeffry Franklin (Bones), Stuart Freeth, Dave Gibbs, Julian Hall (Me), Clifford Harris (Bomber Harris), Francis Herera (Chive), Anthony Hunt, Carlton Hunter (Muttley), John Jenkins, Jack Kilgallon (Mad Jack), Mark Lovel, Peter Lunnice, Paul Merron, Robert Murray (Jock), Thats all I can remember. There were around 30 of us in the class so that is the majority of them.

And yes, The open air pool on Bloemfontein Road (Blom, as we called it), was always freezing, even on a hot day.

As for the School, there is surprisingly little archive info about Christopher Wren School which is a shame, given how famous and infamous the school was. I have even searched for a picture of the school blazer badge / emblem, which was a picture / crest of the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral I think. I also remember that 4th and 5th years had a slightly different badge with a red stripe on the breast pocket of the blazer.

Julian, 47

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Anyone out there have any information about what became of Christopher Wren school, Bloemfontein Road. Opened in 1956, joined with Hammersmith county girls, 1982 then it all goes blank. Reopened as Phoenix school in 1995. Buildings still there at present 10.06.08 but apparently unoccupied. Any info please to keithrpanther@aol.com  thanks.

Keith, 64

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John Leggett, I remember watching you tinkering with your motorbike. You lived on the ground floor? You had a dog called Tiger which used to terrify me? I lived in 34 Champlain on the first floor. I am George Alderman, I had two elder brothers Pat and Tom. I am in touch with Jimmy Mac, who lived at 85. I went to see him in Essex last April. I live in Poole in Dorset. When me and Jim were reminiscing, We remembered you.

George, 70

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We were moved into White City during the war after our block of flats was bombed, and we moved into Champlain House. Can anyone remember us, there was me, John Leggett (now 79) my brother Maurice and sister Margaret, and my mum and dad.

John, 79

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I lived in Lawrence Close with 4 brothers + 3sisters, was delivery boy for Ernie + Mrs Payne, later worked for him full time. He was tough but she was a darling I loved her mugs of tea. As a lad they took me and another lad to see Buddy Holly + the Crickets at the Gaumont Hammersmith live. Used to do Saturday mornings, Savoy East Acton. Saw Elvis in Jailhouse Rock, the Bowry Boys. Had fist kiss. Remember Jacks cafe. Bunking over the wall at W/C stadium playing in the Chinese jungle as it was called before the BBC studio was built. What about the paper stand on the steps to Westway. We used to all meet and hang around the red telephone box outside Laurence House all aged 13-15. Remember Chritsopher Wren. Ellerslie Rd. Repairing a jackdaw's leg and keeping it safe on the top balcony outside our flat until my mother told me it must go. I kept throwing it off the balcony but it kept flying back until I shut the front door, it was gone! But 6 weeks later it came back as if to say thank you, never to be seen again, I still think of that bird. Nice memories.

Tony, 65

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I attended Christopher Wren 57-64 although I lived on Fulham High Street. Yes I remember Leslie Chatterton who looked like the late actor Julian Orchard. Chatterton killed himself by jumping off Hammersmith Bridge. Can anyone remember the smogs that used to cause much disruption with the buses going home and also the London Transport strikes that meant some of us actually walking to school before we were allowed to use our bikes.

Michael, 62

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Joe 52's reference to being a shoeboy for Paynes shoe repair shop reminded me when I too was a shoeboy. This was in 1957 and I had got a new bike 'the Hercules - Aston Tourist' for Xmas, complete with saddle bags, yellow oil cape, leggings, and cap, and gauntlets with luminous wrist guards. I thought myself the bees knees. Soon I was after getting a shoeround with Mr Payne as he paid a pound a week if you had bike as well as the commission which I think was a shilling in the pound and you got tips.

My Mum was against it as it meant knocking on doors and being out at night sometimes but Dad thought it was okay provided I did my homework, and was not out too late, so I got a job and pocket money. My dad said to me to always say "thank you" even if people did not want any shoes repairing and when you delivered the shoes and got any tips, people will remember you next time and maybe give you as tip, also he said keep a note book as to what I collected (as a check on Mrs Payne's tallyings, and also to know who gave you a tip). This seemed to work as I did well each week. Mr Payne invariably was gruff, which considering he had been at his bench all day I now realise to be understandable, his hands were blackened and knarled, he a was short. Mrs Payne was taller and more kindly but her hands too were blackened by handling the shoes. She would give us a block of flats or a street to do plus a hessian sack and off we would go knocking on doors asking "any shoe repairs?". We covered the whole estate, Wormwood estate, Bentinck Road and Westway. We chalk to mark the soles with the requirement ' S / H / 1/4 ' which would be 'Sole and Heel with a Blakey 1/4 Tip' sometimes it may be just a stick-a soles (SAS) which is a lightweight 'Phillips' pre-shaped rubber sole stuck with impact adhesive. There came a time when I didn't agree with Mrs Payne's tallying at the end of the week and got out my book to justify, and we agreed with my reckoning . I never had to contest again, so my Dad told me well.

Sometimes if we, as boys, were doing well on the block or street we were doing we would skip the rest and go off to Jack's cafe and play the juke box and have drink (Tizer , Lemonade, etc). Mrs Payne knew we weren't doing all the street or block numbers as she could see that the numbers would stop ascending to the maximum.

The Paynes were on a winner, they lived in Blomfontein Road so were council tenants like us, they were the only 'snobs' (shoe repairers) around and I'm sure that they knew exactly how many flats were in block or houses in a street, as Mrs Payne would remind us every now and then to do whole block - this time. They had two shops, the other was over towards Bramley Road - North Ken. and sometimes when there was too much work at the WCE shop shoes were taken over to Bramley Road. This was done using the heavy trade bike which had a basket on the front. The first time I used it I made the mistake of riding up the slope of Blomfontein Road to the Westway traffic lights and also coming back through the entrance slope at Ellensborough House up by the park. Next time it was via the side entrance besides the park into Stadium Road, then there was only the shallow rise up to Jack's and down the slope to North Pole Road and they could not be avoided.

When I left school at fifteen and started a job I finished doing the shoe round. The money I spent on records, a Grundig tape recorder, cinema and being able to buy presents at Xmas and I had just over a one hundred pounds in the Post Office book. I hope that the Paynes had a good retirement somewhere as they worked hard at their shops.

The tape recorder? well I belonged to Hammersmith Record Library and so I recorded all my old jazz favourites like King Oliver, Jack Teagarden, Muggsy Spanier, Bix Biederbek , Paul Whiteman, Hoagy Carmichael, Red Nichols, The Count, and latterly Humphrey Littleton, and Chris Barber.

Ha! such happy days on the WCE. Thanks Joe 52, I had forgotten these things.

Peter, 63

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Hello, I was at Christopher Wren School mid 60s - 70, I was with, John Sinfield, Hughy Reed etc. Mr Rickman was my Art teacher, Mr Hooton was Head Teacher, there was Mr Powell, Cocup, Josty who married then was Antrobus, Mr Carter, Mr Wall, German, Mr Walker, Mr Rushdon, Mr Pamely, Mr Toms etc. I had a great time at school. Let me know your thoughts, Cheers.

Tony Farrington, 53

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Attended Christopher Wren from 1963 to 1968 and used the open air swimming pool round the corner in Blomfontein Road, lined up on the edge, and if you didn't jump into the icy water you were helped with a size eleven slipper from the PE master - oh what fun! Wouldn't be allowed today (of course), would be infringing the little chaps human rights or something LOL.

Anonymous

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Hi Carole, I think that I knew your brothers Ronnie and Billy, they were both friends of my brothers Harold and Gerald Sharpe (sadly now both passed away). Are you the same Carole who I and Jack had a cup of tea with in the cab office a little while ago? If so it’s nice to see you pop up again.

All the best to you.

Ken, 77

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Hi, sorry I have not uploaded my pics yet, I will do it very soon. Does anyone here know if harriout is related to me, does anyone on here remember Grey House and my brothers Ronnie and Billy. Hope to get a response.

Carole Worley, 62

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My parents Stan and Bette Tozer moved to 13 Blaxland House in May 1940. Dad was an engineer over at Latimer Road. I was born early morning 14 August 1944, I had an older brother Tony of 7 years and a sister Muriel of 10 years. 9 days later the Fly bomb struck Blaxland House at 4-45 am 23 August. We were lucky as number 13 was just off-centre of the V damage at ground level. 14 were killed, 4 were hospitalised my father being one, 96 treated at the first aid post. My sister recalls standing at the door crying out that her daddy was hurt. With dad in hospital Mum and the children were relocated in Stockport - Manchester till dad recovered. After moving around a bit we are all back at Blaxland House in February 1946 this time at number 10.

We are surrounded by the Paines above us, the Porter's above them, the Goodfellow's next to the Paine's, the Palmer's next to them, the Quinn's, elsewhere were the Poxon's and O'Donague's. Apart from the Paine's whose sons were my brother's age these families provided all my freinds and playmates. The White City estate in the 50's and early 60's was just great. there were few cars, we played football, cricket in the street, marbles in the gutter, shooting arrows over the roofs to land on the greens the other side.

Making trolley's and scooters, The trolleys we would take to Horsenden Hill at Perivale, on the 105 bus. The scooters had ball bearing wheels and did they make a racket on the pavements, also the skates which annoyed the mums as we skated around balconies. The lamp posts remember were octagonal so ideal as wickets for cricket. we played hand tennis over wire fences that divided the forecourts from the pavements. The fences were made of thin tubed ex-war stretchers which had a woven wire mesh which was good for unpicking. At the entrance to Bentinck House and Lawrence Close stood the red telephone box from which I eventually made all my mid week calls to my girlfriend (wife) who lived in Greenford years later. There, every Sunday afternoon, would draw up Sailor Jack Johnson in his dark blue van with shell fish galore , my Dad out there dead quick to weigh in his hand the best crab and return with Whelks, Cockles and Shrimps. Also there was the Muffin Man ringing his bell, on foot with a platter on the head. Tony Bros. came daily in his ice cream van and yes he was Italian.

The breadman pulled a huge cart with 4'-0" (1220 mm) diameter wheels, The dust lorry, pulled by one horse, sometimes two, had roll shutters and the men would open the dust shoot doors and fork out the rubbish/dust into the cart. No health and safety in those days. The United Daries milk float was horse drawn and it seemed to choose to drop its personal deliverance just outside our door on occasions. Later on the Battery driven float would replace the horse.

Football and cricket matches were always being played in the roads but by the time I was 14 /15 we were driven off by the advent of the car. But we still had the CAGE as we called it over toward South Africa Road it was a triangular area with high mesh fences, but it was very much possessed by the lads in that part of the estate, otherwise there was the Bentinck School and there in the evenings there was a youth group and once we finish with football, no floodlights, we would go inside and stand watching the girls dancing to Bill Haley, Elvis, Bobby Vee etc. The High School Hop was my favourite.

My earliest memory of Blaxland was the high wire fencing that still partitioned off the re-construction of Blaxland's damage. it was necessary to cut back the structure to sound material, and as other contributors know you can still see the new brick line. I don't know where it is on the Auckland side but on our side it's between 10 and 11. And there was Mrs Wyatt, on the top floor at 111, every week she leave her rent with my Mother to pay the rentman and I would receive 3d. The tally man would arrive periodically in a black custom made van with coach work aluminium strips on the outside, inside would be racks of clothes for the ladies.

I started at Wormholt Infants School when just 5. My first teacher being Miss Williams, my abiding memory being that we sung All Things Bright And Beautiful every morming, and that Miss Williams would paint your nails brown if you bit them. It was poster paint of course. Next I was at Canberra School when 7, I was always the youngest in class, my birthday being in August, and I just loved being there. We had Miss Knight, Miss Short, Mr Long, Mr Stewert (he was great, taught us all about the British Empire, Romans, and Saxons) and there was Mr Wyatt, he seemed somehow special why I don't know but on the day David Poxon and I left we were both crying saying goodbye to him. Mrs Richardson was the Headmistress, a large woman always wearing a blue fulsome tunic or dress. The school song was Waltzing Matilda, remember everything about the White City is British Empire. Dave Poxon went to North Hammersmith School and I went to Addison Gardens at Blyth Road, we hardly ever saw each other again. From there I became an engineer like my Dad.

Those bonfires we had at Guy Fawkes were the best, there was always competition to biuld the biggest/highest, everything went into them and if it could not be carried down the stairways it was sometimes heaved over the balcony. There would at least three along the Western Avenue and two/three on the dump between the Smuts and The Our Lady of Fatima Church. If you didn't bunk off school that day, to help finish the biulding, you got home from school sharpish to try and set light to the oppositions best efforts. Chasing girls with 'Bangers' stuck into drawn out bed spings, and roasting spuds in the dying embers was the thing. My dad always came home that evening with a box of fireworks. He was an auxiliary fireman during the war and was very conscious of the dangers when lighting so I never got chance to light them, but once the show was over I was away to the bonfires and all good fun.

Saturday morning pictures at the Savoy was the week's highlight. Flash Gordon almost died each week only to be recovered the next. Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, Hoppy, Gabby Hayes, Keystone Cops, Looney Tunes etc, what fun we had and it was re-enacted when we came out.

Later when I was 17 I joined the Court School of Dancing which was accessed at the side of the Savoy Cinema, the long room was full of chandeliers and glass, and just glowed. There I met my Sweet Sixteen - Dorothy.

As children, on the White City Estate, we had freedom and adventure, okay so not everyone was in good heart but there was community and people helped each other.

I last visited WCE in 2005 and met some good people at the Fatima Centre, and very much hope the children still enjoy some freedom and have adventure as we did.

Peter, 63

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I want to thank Lila (Proyer) for her latest photo, yes I surely recognize her now. I have been trying to correspond with Jack Baxter but we seem to have problems. I will let you know that we will be in England from May 13th to June 12th. Hopefully we can meet up with as many of the old cycle speedway fans as possible. I have so many happy memories of the White City but of course some are fading. No, Ken Sharpe your e-mail never came through. jeanne_reed@hotmail.com

Jeanne Wilman (Reed), 75

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My old man says all the time what a crack the White City was in the sixties, he lived at Canning House, I wonder if anyone remembers him and his family (Peter, Martin, John, Eddie, Alice, Dinah O'Brien) it would be nice to hear some tales!

Paul O'Brien, 35

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Hello young Alan Manning.
I knew all the manning family, and I am in touch with Fred (chunky) Manning often. I knew a family member had passed away because I am in touch with some ex city chaps (Wally Sharp) he lived at 22 Blaxland and Gordon Kearns, I think they may have been at his funeral. Fred of course was a great friend of my brother Harold who passed away last year and Fred was at his funeral. That's all for now young Alan, kind regards to you and yours, all the best to you.

Ken Sharpe, 77

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How sad it is to hear Ted Manning has passed away. I can't remember which one Teddy was, time has eroded the old grey cells, but I knew all the Manning boys quite well in the 1940s. It was only a couple of months ago that I had a long chat with Chunky. My condolences go to all of the manning family.

Alan it would be nice if you had a photo that you could put on this site of all brothers and sisters taken in their early years.

Do you know were the Manning family was when the bomb fell on Blaxland?

Jack, 76

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My dad has just passed away, he told me many stories, his name was Ted Albert Manning his family lived in White City, a George, Ted, Fred, Sid, Jeff, May, Enid, Eilieen, Eddie Manning. My dad was 78.

Alan Manning, 52

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I lived on Ellerslie Road and went to Ellerslie Infant and Junior School also Hammersmith County. A number of my friends lived on White City Estate all of which sadly I have lost touch with as I moved out of the area in 1981.

I remember the swimming pool at Lime Grove and also the Blom...its funny for all the swimming lessons I had I never did learn how to swim :) My memories at Ellerslie school are a bit vague. I remember a dinner lady Mrs Carter she was a lovely lady and a teacher by the name of Mrs Jadhave (I have probably spelt it wrong) but I never did like her and ask for the Headmistress Mrs Mahon at the time what can I say. The names of people I can remember at Ellerslie who use to make me laugh were Jennifer; Brenda; Mark; Cecil; Elenor; Gillian; Brendon and Christine. I remember the girls toilets outside in the playground at Ellerslie and the hard tissue paper but when I found out there was an inside toilet with soft paper there was no stopping me sneaking in (smile) I think it may have been the teachers loo but I never got caught.

I do remember going to the Adventure Playground in White City a couple of times but gave up only because I like to stay grounded and do not like heights!!

My time at Hammersmith County was fun!! - I remember my Religious Teacher Mrs DeSilva; the Deputy Head Mr Tees he use to make me laugh when he got angry - it was so hard to keep a straight face :) My English Teacher Mrs Romano and of course the boys at Christopher Wren next door made going to school a scream.

I am making plans to emigrate in 2009 but before I do leave I am planning to return to my old stomping ground to see how much the borough has moved on. I have heard White City has changed; Ellerslie School no longer exists and as for Hammersmith County its name has changed nevertheless I need to see the old place one more time before I leave.

Helen, 45

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What memories this is bringing back!
We lived in Canning House for a short while in what must be between 1947 - 50ish? I think it was Number 33 on the 3rd floor.
I remember the dark laundry rooms, with their clothes lines and old driers. Also the waste chutes down to the bins below.
Mum bought me a brand new bike for a shilling a week, off the Provident man! He used to go round the estate on his motorbike and sidecar collecting. And sometimes he'd let me ride in the sidecar!!
I recall racing our bikes round the blocks of sheds in the courtyard below. And being knackered by the time I'd humped that heavy bike back up all those flights of stairs!
I remember some shops round in Blomfontein Road. And was it somewhere off there, we had our Bricklaying and Woodwork lessons?
I remember being allowed to get to school late in Fulham Palace Road because mum was working and I had to take my younger sister to Ellerslie Road School. Then I used to wander down Shepherds Bush Market and get the bus from Goldhawk Road, was it? About the only thing I remember about that North Hammersmith part of the school, was a really miserable old French teacher. He'd make us just sit there and read a text book in complete silence for the whole lesson! God help if you wanted to sneeze even! I never did learn any French!
Later I must have moved to Old Oak school in Mellitus Street, East Acton, where one of my mates was Jim Mac. Others I think were Dennis Robins and George(?). I think My form teacher was a Mr Fulton. There was a Games master who used to delight in giving you one across the hand with a blackboard pointer if you were late more than twice. He'd do it with a huge grin on his face! Then there was a Mr Watson the maths teacher who we would sidetrack into spending the lesson telling us about his wartime experiences. I still cant do algebra!!! And wos' a logarithm?
After White City, we moved to Council House in Henchman Street by East Acton Station.

John (Tub), 70

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Hi Lila, Ken from Blaxland, thanks for the info re Bert Taylor and Mavis I am only at Oxhey so I will try to make connect with her. I am in regular contact with Jack and Rene Baxter and between the three of us we reckon the other girl on the bike with you could be Billy Gordon"s sister.
Come on all you white city silver surfers and you Jack, Rene and Tony Baxter lets have some more of your memories.
Lila, I am also in contact with Wally Sharpe who lived at no. 22 beneath your flat via Gordon Kearns who is on this web page.
Well that's all for now. Regards to your family Lila, and Gordon we will see you in June.

Ken, 76

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Hello Ken, I remember Godfrey and Ken Wyatt who lived on the first floor in Auckland house. Bert Taylor died of TB but his stepsister Mavis lives at Headstone Lane, Harrow.

Lila, 74

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Hello Ken, I knew Mavis, Bert Taylor's sister. She lived in Whittlesea Road, Headstone Lane, Harrow.  She married a policeman, she was also in the police. I lived in the next road to her 5 years ago.

Lila, 74

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Use to live in 66 Havelock Close (across the road from Blaxland House) me and bruv Mick (51) still close still QPR fanatics. Use to know Eamonn Breet, Johnny Rown and his brother Mick, the Hambi’s, Roy Bedminster, Louis Gargan, Kevin Mcgrath, went to Canberra then onto Wren, was in Gibbons (blue) class loved it all in those days, great childhood, great life, great friends, great memories! If you know me surely a name like Bednarcuk is unforgettable.

John Bednarczuk, 44

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Went to Christopher Wren school from 56 -59 when I left to emigrate to Africa with my parents, was in class 2je Mr Ellis's class and teachers Mr Powell and and Carter.

Jim, 64

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Don't know how I survived this school, I have a wonderful life now, the arts saved me, am happy that I have made contact with a fabulous old friend from this school, who is also an artist. I must say that I don't blame all the teachers, it was, I guess the 70s when white, working class and us black immigrants were all expected to fail. I now have a successful career and two wonderful children who are thriving in good state schools, thanks to my resillence and good fortune!

Leila, 51

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Heya, this is Sevgi!
I used to live in white city in the 80s, in 104 Champain house. If anyone can remember we were the Turkish family living in white city, I had 6 sisters and 1 brother some of them I can name which some people might remember Hatty, Sengul, Sev. I used to go to Hammersmith county Wren school, starting the exact year when the two schools (girls & boys) joined together 1983 and graduated in 1988.
Anyway I was going to ask if anyone knows the whereabouts of Michelle Truman and how I can get in contact. If anyone remembers me or if Michelle sees this please contact me, it'll be nice to see some old faces. sevgi_karatay07@hotmail.co.uk

Sevgi, 37

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Hi it's Ken again of Blaxland House, Hi young Steve Godfrey, there used to be a Kenny Godfrey I went to school with, he lived in Auckland house in the centre part of the block, his age now would be about 75-ish.

To all the White City silver surfers out there I am still trying to find Ron (nutty) Woods, Bert Taylor, Knobby Wheeler and Bert Taylor's step sisters (June, Mavis and May) please help me trace them if you can.

Just who is the young girl in the photo with Lila on their bikes, and if my old mate Jack Baxter is reading this how about some more of your memories (come on Jack).

Steve if Kenny Godfrey is a relation please let me know. That's all for now, all the best to you all.

Ken, 76

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My name is Steve Godfrey I used to live in Hudson Close frome 62-92, used to go to the dogs at white city still have greyhounds at Wimbledon. I have a twin called Dave. I would like to hear from any person out there that knows us, we had a great time all them years ago. Please get in touch.

Steve, 56

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I'm not sure what year it was but my mum talks about it sometimes. A little girl called Aileen died in a bonfire when her father put petrol on a bonfire. Does anyone know her last name. Also does anyone know Tracy Williams?

Steph, 12

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To Frances Jones.
I am Lila and my sister Eileen was married to Harold Barry, she had two children Janet and Christopher. They lived in Percy Road, W12. Maybe she is the Janet Barry you are looking for. I haven't got an email address.

Lila, 74

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Hello Lila Proyer. My wife Eileen was very pleased to hear that Eileen and Eve in Canada remembered the family from Hammersmith. Eve would probably remember my brother Ron, who lived in Hudson Close. I was a great friend of your older brother Billy who, unfortunately died very young. I am talking 1940 - 1945. There was Billy - Bert and Wally Sharpe who, lived below the Proyers in Blaxland House, Harry Smith who lived in Blaxland also, plus a few others. We were all about 5 years older and, as you now know, 5 years at that age was a lifetime. Lovely to speak with you all. Bye.

gordon.kearns@tesco.net, 80

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Lila Proyer, outside blaxland house, who is the younger girl?

Lila, 74

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Hello Gordon. I sent a copy of your letter to my sister Eileen and Eve in Canada. Eileen remembers your family shop and parents but she can't remember you, was quite a while ago!
I'm still hearing stories of my family that I don't remember, I was the second youngest.

Lila, 74

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Went to Ellerslie in mid fifties. Same class as Shaun Sheehan, Pat Gilchrist, Terry Harrison etc. Remember bunking in Rangers via Loftus Road playing football in new park, playing on the estate. I lived Brook Green. Great times messing about down Shepherds Bush market, getting autographs at BBC. Not all happy days but we did have some laughs.

John, 57

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I lived in Adelaide Grove with my parents and my sister Leah. Went to Ellerslie Road School and also Hammersmith County which I left in 1961. I had a few friends who lived on the White City Estate. Also learnt to swim at Bloemfontein Swimming baths. Have managed to find some old friends on Friends Reunited but still searching for Janet Barry and Mick Kerwin. Now retired and live outside Colchester, Essex. If anyone would like to email me the address is frances_nicholls@hotmail.com would love to hear from you.

Frances Jones, 61

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To Jimmy Mac, George and anyone else from Champlain House, I have to agree that we had the biggest and best bonfire in the White City.
My name is Terry Carter lived in Champlain House. My Dad was a porter on the Estate, Mick Carter. He was hurt when Blaxland House got hit in the Blitz and suffered a stroke years later as a result of his injuries.
My son Doug came across this site and I would love to hear from any of you who may remember me.
I am now living in Michigan, USA and I want to thank all of you, especially those who were my childhood friends, for writing all the wonderful memories. I do hope to make contact with some of you as I can be reached at: ragalaxy@peoplepc.com

Terry, 70

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I use to live in White City Estate (Bentinck House) from 1960 - 1973.
I attended Canberra Primary School and then went onto Hammersmith County (Comprehensive) School. I had some good times at Hammersmtih County special the last year of school. I use to organise dance performance and some of the boys from Christopher Wren was involved. I also use to go swimming at Blomfontein Road only in the Summer.  Would love to hear from anyone who may know me. Surname use to be Dystant. I have two brothers who went to Christopher Wren (Fred and Errol).

Constance, 52

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Hi Jean Wilman (Reed)
Nice to see you pop up on this site, yes of course we can arrange to meet up when you come over. I have spoken to Jack Baxter he also said we should meet up and renew old friendships and talk over old times. If you can let us know your plans and we can work something out.
I have sent you an email, did you get it OK. Kind regards to you and all your family.
Ken and Doris Sharpe X

Ken, 76

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I have nothing but nasty and unpleasant memories of my time at Wren school. It was hell on earth for 5 years and I left when I turned 15 as soon as I could. Racist faculty and even worse class mates, I truly hated that place and bear the scars to this day. I now live in the States and have done so for the past 25 years. Fortunately my career has gone well in spite of this so I am grateful for that and to this day remain a staunch and loyal Brentford supporter [as am I, Ed.].

Jim, 58

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So sorry to hear of the passing of Gerald Sharpe. I have tried to contact many of our old friends but with no luck. Lily and I are coming to London in May and with luck we hope to meet up with some of you, i.e. Ken Sharpe, Lila Proyer, Rene and Jack Baxter. Can we meet somewhere?
Regards to all. jeanne_reed@hotmail.com

Jeanne Wilman (Reed), 75

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For all the residents of White City, Take a look at the site "you tube" for White City part 1, (there are 5 parts in total by Pete Townsend of "The Who"). It brings back nostalgic memories of White city flats, shops and the pubs.....

Jacqui, 42

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I went to Hammersmith county school had a good time there, lived in Hasting House and made some good friends that I would love to see now like Sandra McCormick and Vivien Smythe.

Brenda, 56

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Just a quickie for the Proyer Family. My wife Eileen, was a Walsh before marriage. Her mother was Lizzie Walsh better known as Lizzie Gregory of the Fruit and veg Gregory's. Jim's Grandson, Jimmy eventually owned Q.P.R.

Eileen remembers when you all lived in Marriot St. off The King Street, before you moved to The White City, her Grandad had a Fruit and Veg shop in School St, right opposite Waterside School gates, next to the school gate was Eddie's Sweet Shop. Just thought that Eileen and Jeanne would have memories of those days. Love to you all. Gordon and Eileen.

Gordon, 80

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We used to live in one in one of the prefabs on Australia Road, we moved there in 1946, seems long ago now. Does anybody remember them.

Jim, 70

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Hi Gordon[80]ex Hudson Close.
Nice to see silver surfers of White City popping up. Of course I knew the other Sharp family at 22 very well, I tried to email you at the email address on your piece but it came back to me as faulty. My wife and I go to the south coast 2 or 3 times a year - which town do you live in? I am in touch with lots of old childhood friends via this site, it brings back so many happy memories. That's all for now more soon.

Ken, 76

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I must be one of the oldest contributers to these very enjoyable letters. My family moved into 19 Hudson Close in September 1939, just before the war began. Dad had already been called up into the Army, which left Mum, Ron, Peggy, myself and Joan. There is only Joan and myself left. I live on the South Coast in Sussex and, Joan and her family all live in Adelaide, South Australia. We speak to each other every month. Many of the letters refer to the Sharpe family who I believe, lived in N0.24 Blaxland House. My friends were the other Sharps, who lived at No.22, Bert, Wally and Ronnie who was much younger. Bert is still alive and lives in Mitcham where, he still drives his London Cab. Wally and his wife Rene, live just up the road from my wife Eileen and Myself, we can't get rid of them! The Proyer Family are mentioned quite often, John has penned a very good article. I can remember when he was born. One of my closest friends was Billy, the second eldest, Eileen was the eldest. She was very attractive and always had plenty of fellas hanging around. Mr Proyer worked at The Cosy Corner fish and chip shop in The King Street. He always had lovely bikes. He once had a top of the range Chrome Bicycle from Hoods Cycle shop in Fulham Palace Road. He eventually ended up with a Rudge Auto Bike. Like many of us in those days, we put our ages up to get a driving licence, tests were not around then, you just got a Provisional Licence. Billy got a job, driving for The Excel Sausage and Pie company who worked out of Shirland Road, Maida Vale. I used to take days off work to go out with him, he taught me how to drive. I then got my own licence and got a job driving for George Cohen the 600 Group out of Wood Lane.I could go on for hours. It's been lovely reminiscing, would love to hear from anyone from 1939 to 1946. gordon.kearns@tesco.net

Gordon, 80

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My nan (Smith family) lived on the White City estate, Hudson Close. My mum was bombed out. In the late 50s and early 60s I thought the White City estate, was great. Went to Hammersmith County 62-69. Compared to today’s schools the facilities and education was great. Have many happy memories of the estate, ie bonfire night, running races around the White City stadium, and the Royal Tattoo. Trained in the blom - yes it was cold but great in the summer, can still hear the noise of the turnstiles, entry only threepenny bit - clack clack clack clack clack! Mum was a life guard there. Mrs Norman dispensed hot bovril on chilly days from the cafe and ice creams in the summer. I and many of my friends became teachers.

Sue, 56

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I never lived on the White City Estate but I lived in Stanlake Road and used to go to the park by the BBC to play tennis. Went to Our Lady of Fatima Church and got married there. My reception was held in the General Smutts - is it still there? I used to work with a girl called Helen McNamara at Key Employment on Shepherds Bush Green, she lived in Hastings House. I also was an avid QPR supporter and used to go to all of their home games - they were the days of good old Rodney and Phil who used to frequent the local bookies and pubs as I recall!

Linda, 51

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Hi Brian Smith, I knew the Binnie family very well. I went school with Den, in fact we were in the same class at Wormholt Park school. We lived opposite at 24 Blaxland House, and he and I worked together at the Cumberland hotel at Marble Arch. I tried to email you but it came back as a faulty address. More later.

Kind regards to you all.

Ken, 76

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Thanks for info re Gerald - yes our condolences are with you and the family. Look forward to more chatter and news soon. Regards Lily and Jeanne

Lily Morley (Wilman), 76

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Hi Brian and Muriel (nee Binnie)
I knew your mum and dad and Dennis and Bob very well. In fact Den and i went to the the same school and were in the same class (Wormholt Park school) we lived opposite your flat at 24 Blaxland House.

Nice to see old friends names keep popping up. Let's see some more memories from our childhood days from anybody who lived in the White City from about 1938 to the early sixties all the best to you all.

Ken, 76

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I used to live in Mackay House in South Africa Road with my family (Bob (d.), Albert, Les, Robert, Margaret, Ann, Sheila and Rose (aka Mick)and our mum Louisa (d.1990). I married Muriel Binnie who attended Bentworth Road School (66), who lived in Auckland House - sister of Beryl and Bob (d. 1984) and Den (d. 1989). Muriel's parents were Alex and Amelia Binnie. We now live in Chelmsford, Essex - It would be lovely to hear from anyone. Muriel would love to hear from Jackie Young. Brian would love to hear from his bestman Peter Smith. We got married on 29.07.1961. We still go to see QPR on occasion.

Please send any correspondence to djsmithmanford@hotmail.com

Brian Smith, 69

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Hi Gang, It's Jack from 75 Blaxland (1939-1949), I am afraid I have got to start this piece with some bad news, Ken Sharpe has ask me to let you all know that on the night of 3-1-08 his brother Gerald was killed in a car accident. I am sure you are all with me in sending to him and his family our condolences.

I have not been very active this last few weeks, but I am sure I will be back shortly with plenty to say.

Jack, 75

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I lived there when I was seven, I went to Livingstone infants/juniors. Some happy memories of the area before I moved.

Roger, 57

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I attended Sir Christopher Wren School in the late 60s early 70s and was there when Hammersmith County school joined us for the first time as a mixed 6th form. I remember the odd mix of old and new school buildings and getting punished by the ex- Wasps PE teacher Mr Powell as he systematically 'slippered' his way through the whole assembly of our year's intake for one boy's unadmitted transgression. I remember the enigmatic Mr Tomms sitting cross-legged on a desk teaching us history during a maths lesson and threatening to reward bad behaviour with 'a Mars Bar' which he ceremoniously handed out to the suspended boy as he left the premises. I remember Paul 'eggy' Cook and Steve Jones before they gained noteriety as part of the Sex Pistols. I remember the bitter rivalry with the local Grammar School, St Clement Danes and the fights we had on the bridge between the Westway and Du Cane Road. I also remember Wormholt Youth Club which kept us off the streets in the evening whilst we honed our mini-snooker, table tennis and girl pulling skills!

Norman, 51

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I lived in Mitchell House from 1948 to 1962. I went to Bentworth Primary School, North Hammersmith Secondary Modern Boys School (AKA Norf Ham) The annexe at Norland Road, Mellitus Street and Fulham Palace Road until it changed to Christopher Wren.

Played football for Hammersmith District in Junior school and for West London in SM.

Len, 65

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Hello Lily, sorry I’ve kept you waiting so long. Thanks for your message and yes I do remember fruit picking at Chivers. Do you remember the 2 French boys we met. Lots of fun.

These are the girls we met at Chivers (I’m 2nd from the right) And the other picture of you on the bike was taken at Olympia.

The picture of the 2 Spivs are Sid Rouse and Peter Balldock.

Lily I’d like to talk or write direct to you, so if you want you could send a number or address to Sav to pass on to me.

From Tony (Rene's Son), 55

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I don't know much about the White City but wondered if anyone remembered Lord Alexander running at the White City. That would have been long before he became Earl Alexander. So I guess sometime between the two world wars. He was supposed to have run at an all services (Army/Navy/RAF) event. Anyone know anything about that? My father was supposed to have run against him but can't find out if this story is true. If anyone has any memories of this, please e-mail me direct. tony.brennan@ns.sympatico.ca

Hope to visit the area one day

Regards
Tony Brennan,
White Hill, Pictou County, Nova Scotia

Tony, 61

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I have memories of riding on a cycle speedway track similar to the one in the action photos. Could anyone tell me if it was the Beaver Lane, Hammersmith.

Bill, 76

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Born and bred in Shepherds Bush, off the Uxbridge Road, I first went To Ellerslie Road School. I remember the bully headmaster Mr Evans and my favourite teacher Miss Fox. Leaving there I went to Christopher Wren school, which was boys only at that time. I remember teachers such as Cocup, Massey, Tannich, Leighton, Chard and Jefferson. And, to us impressionable teenagers, the sexy Miss Josty. Friends included Colin Levy, Colin Carlow, George Zoumidoo and Colin Jackson. By the time I reached the 5th year there were some mixed classes with girls from Hammersmith County. I participated in the mixed hockey classes. For one term we were allowed to go unsupervised to Queensway for ice skating. I think there were about 5 or 6 of us that went and we never got back for fourth period maths. I left 1966/67.

Peter, 58

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Hello Jean Proyer (Cozens) what a lovely suprise to see your name pop up. I remember snotty and his toffee carrots etc. and the coal dump as you say we had to keep warm. Your Jim, Jack Baxter, and my self (Ken Sharpe) and a few others, used to collect rags from the dump, half fill a sack with the rags, put in a couple of house bricks, fill the sack with more rags and sell them to the rag and bone man and then run when we got paid before he tipped out the sack. I knew Fred of course.

Well done Jean your piece has brought back a lot of happy memories for me of our childhood. That's all for now, regards to you and your family, all the best.

p. s. to the young man ALAN LEONARD, as you can read from this web site the white city estate was a very close community in those far of years. So keep reading and let us know what it is like now, all the best to you.

Ken Sharpe, 76

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Hello, Jean Proyer [Cozens] joining in via my son.
I have memories of delivering papers in the evening around the blocks of white city even walking over debris on balconies after a raid. Does anyone remember "snotty violet" coming round with his cart or van with toffee apples/carrots sometimes covered in coconut and buying different coloured sherbet or something like it? And what about the man with twopence a pint of "vinegar salt a penny a lump" and who knows where it all came from?

After bombings and noisy nights we used to go down "the blom" to pick up tarry logs off the road and then go over the dump with our choppers and make firewood and sell it around the flats. What about the load of coal that was fenced in everyone raided it via the oak tree, had to keep warm somehow! What about Hargraves House when it was bombed. My husband Fred Cozens who lived there can remember stories about that. Is there any of his old mates still out there [Frankie Davis /Jimmy Wyatt /Eddie Kennet /Alf Stacy /Eddie Bond]?

The chrome bike, jack, i think was my dad's but we all used to borrow it when he was out. If i recall he bought it in a shop just off Hammersmith Broadway it lasted years.

I remember taking my mum's laundry down to xl laundry in a pram near the gas works - sometimes bring coke back then collect it in the afternoon wet, on the way back we would pass the print works and ask the printers if we could have any comics which they would pass through the railings doing that journey so many times we took the barrage balloons for granted.

JACK your dad worked at a glass place in the city didnt he and you had these sort of marbles, a game that was very popular! Also we played rounders and EVERYONE joined in. What about Mr and Mrs Eldridge, that man in the suit and hat we used to knock on their door and buy 1p of sweets [oh joy]. I lived opposite them when I moved from Oxhey to Headstone Lane in a prefab and Rene, Frances and Jack lived there too.

All these comments have stirred loads of memories I remember a lot of you. Keep them coming.

Afterthought: the ride home in the black maria is another story [we were innocent!].

Jean, 77

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I am new to the estate, just wanted to see what white city was like before I was born.

Alan Leonard, 20

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Hi to all the White City Homesteaders and all friends around Blaxland House. What a great picture of the bombed out corner of Blaxland. I will never forget the impact and sadness that was caused. I do like to remember the good times we all had in our youth, like going to the Saturday morning Odeon Club, travelling around with the Racers cycle team and some of us going to Wembley to see the Motor cycle teams. The big VE party that was a huge success, we were all allowed to stay up late that night. Do you remember the army barracks that was down by the White City Stadium where we would go down and ask for bread pudding from the cooks. Most times we got it and it tasted great. The prisoners would make us rings and crosses out of wood, they were all so young. Guy Fawkes night was another big hit for getting money to have fireworks and to sit around the big Bon Fires, oh those were the days. Take care friends. Oh, and a very big thank you to the ones who run this site.

Jeanne Reed (Wilman), 75

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I attended Ellersie Road Primary School up to 1958 and Christopher Wren School from 1958 to 1962. I was in 3E, 4E and 5E, most of memories of school were good, except English, one teacher insisted that we learnt a long poem and had to recite it, I had no memory for that, I can't even remember songs never mind poetry, the other odd lesson was Science and Mr Bacon (I think) we had the U test and if you could not answer the question you went to then end of the U an odd way of doing a test, it was stopped after we complained, I left school and worked with Rosser & Russell as an apprentice pipe fitter welder. I lived in Galloway Road at the time.

My parents managed the sweet shop - Kents - opposite the Blom Swimming Pool, not fond memories of that pool, it was always cold, and a 9am swimming lesson in May was not the best way to learn how to swim. My mates and I used to go to Lime Grove swimming baths.

I suspect like me a lot of boys have moved all over the country, I moved to the West Country in 1971 and moved up to Scotland two years ago, my next planned move is in three years time when I retire to the south west of France.

Reading the comments etc on this site certainly brought back memories, mostly good ones.

Peter, 61

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Hi Carole Worley, nice to see your response. Look forward to seeing pics. No, I live in Essex, not Oxhey.

Jim Mac, 70

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Carole, I am a bit disappointed that you have not answered my query. At the moment it seems to be all Blaxland House. Come on you other flats, let's have some of your memories.

Seeing the photo of the damage to Blaxland House, I remember going to see the damage the next day. We of course did not realise the full impact of what had happened, all we wanted was some shrapnel. I remember looking at Blaxland House some years later and you can see the different colour of the bricks used to rebuild it.

George, 70

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BLAXLAND HOUSE
04:04 5th Aug 1944
This must bring back some memories.
Mum (Rene) thinks the last member of the 4 competitors is my Dad's old friend Siddy Rouse.

This picture was taken in 2000 on Rene's 70th birthday. L to R is Gerald Sharpe, Rene, Ken Sharpe and Wally Jowers

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Jeanne, your piece and photos of white city racers are absolutely brilliant, what memories they brought back for me. Les and Sid Rouse are no longer with us, Les was taken at such an early age but what a sportsman, he excelled in every sport he took part in. I recognize some of the lads in the photos and your sister Lily. Has anybody any knowledge of Maurice Pardy,the Parr bros (Jack and Arthur) and their sister Anne. Jeanne, I spoke to Mary and Joan Nichols a couple of weeks ago - were they suprised when they picked up the phone and we had a long chat about old times and old friends! That's all for now. So come on you silver surfers keep the memories coming.

Ken, 76

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I have managed to get hold of two pictures which I will put on asap. Jimmy Mac do you live in South Oxhey? Also to Alan as Worley is an uncommon name, could we be related?

Carole, 62

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These pics were taken around 1947-8, we had a lot of fun those days. Hopefully, we can get some names to the pictures.

Jeanne Reed nee (Wilman)

Crash Up

Ken Sharpe, Lily Wilman, Bevan

Les getting straight

We are winning

What a team! L. Wilman, J. Bevan, Sid, no name, no name, K Sharpe, Bevan, John.


White City


Barry Wilman

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Hello White City. I come from the close-knit Baxter family. I've been reading all these wonderful stories. They bring back strong memories of my lovely Nan and Grandad, Gus and Dora Baxter.

Me and my brother Christopher both inherited the Q.P.R. bug. Jack and my dad Stan Mackerness would regularly drag us down to Loftus Road, standing in the cold and rain, on terraces that were made out of railway sleepers.

I have some great pictures that I've got stashed away and as soon as I learn how to put them on the site I will. (please see the not above, Ed.) I know my mum wants me to add a few lines, so as soon as she sorts herself out I'll do that too.

Tony (Rene's Son), 55

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A very big hello to Lily and Jeanne Wilman, what a nice suprise to see your names pop up,I hope you are all well and your families as well.

Jeanne in answer to your question the members of the white city team were Les, myself, Ken, Sid Rouse, John Bevan and his brother, Jack Zetta, the names of all the others escape me at the moment but when I recall them I will let you know. Sid Rouse passed away some time ago.

Jeanne, Jack has sent you 3 emails and not had a reply did you get them, so I will send you one soon.

Hi Kevin yes I remember the bowling green in Wormholt Park, we all from Blaxland used to bunk in the pool and although the water was very cold we still had a lot of fun.

Jeanne and Lily, do you remember the roller scating hockey matches we used to have in Blomfontein Road, the surface was so smooth and very few cars about in those days.

I will close now but I would like to give a big vote of thanks to the person who looks after this web page for helping us to relive some of our memories and getting in touch with old friends again, many thanks.

Ken Sharpe, 76

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Hi Rene, Jean has passed on info re this site. Have read through all the letters and oh! what memories they provoked. I have sent Jean some photos of you (and me) taken when we went fruit picking for Chivers in Cambridge. I am not very good on the computer but will try and draft out some stories of those "good old days". I will be in touch again soon. Lily Wilman (Morley - New Zealand)

Lily, 76

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A messege to Carol Worley. George and I knew your brother Billy well also knew Ronnie. We would hope you return to this page and hopefully give us some more information. Thanks.

Jimmy Mac, 70

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I have found some photos of the White City Racers, my brother Leslie was the captain. I can reconise Ken Sharpe, John Bevan and his brother, Sid?, more faces but names allude me. Les at the Pool with John Bevan and two other boys. Barry my youngest brother taken at the end of Auckland House. How do I post them? Jack Baxter has my e-mail address if any of you would like it. After reading all the letters it has brought back many happy memories. The Bon fires over the dump, the melting of lead, then some sad looking at the dead at the pool, we saw it all. I would stand on the balcony waiting for the planes to come and bomb us. We went to see where the first V2 rocket fell, cannot remember the streets but could go there. Sometimes we would walk to school thru the allotments across from Auckland House, scrump a few carrots or spuds for our camp at the dump. Who remembers going to Denham Woods to pick Bluebells? We would come home with arm loads. Happy Days.

Jeanne Wilman (Reed), 75

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Remember the tennis courts at the back of Wormholt Park? You could climb it to Blom baths from there. And the Bowling Green, smooth as a snooker table. I used to bunk at break and go to Glad's Cafe!

Kevin, 43

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I attended Christopher Wren late 50s early 60s. Love to hear from anyone out there who was there at the same time, share a memory or two. Forms 1G, 2B, 3A, 4A, 5A, I was in the first intake at the new School. Happy Days!

Roy, 61

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Carole,
I have not seen any reply to my queries about Billy and Ronnie. I hope that they are both well! Billy was my great pal until I lost touch with him when you moved away from the flats. My mate Jimmy Mac, lived two floors above me in Champlain house he was and still is my oldest friend. Me, Jim and Billy were little tearaways getting up to all kinds of mischief.

George, 70

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I have just been found by John Baxter. It has taken me a long time to read all this stuff but oh but how lovely it has all been. I had forgotton lots of the events and people mentioned.

We left Blaxland I think about 1947 or 8, moving to Roehampton. Four of us still around Pat, Lily, Me and Barry. I married and moved to Canada in 1956, we are still here. Lily lives in New Zealand, Pat in Sevenoaks, Barry near Guildford.

I remember so well the parties we had, the games of Tin Can Tommy and the one where we would drop a cotton reel from the upper flat to a person below who would tie it on the door knocker, from up stairs we would pull it and keep knocking the door and then run like the dickens. My late brother Leslie was on the cycle speedway team, what fun days they were. I will dig out some old photos and will post them later.

Lily Proyer, I remember your name well also Jean and Evelyn. Billy, your brother was a great roller skater, right? Any one heard from Joan Marsh of Auckland House, Edna Loveall, or John Bevan. I have to go now but will come back again soon.

Jeanne Wilman (Reed), 75

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I can remember my dad took me and my brothers to the White City Stadium for various events. The tattoo, saw paratroopers land in the stadium, this was then held at Earls Court (royal tournament), Greyhound racing, Schoolboy internationals, QPR for a short period! Stock car racing, International Athletics and so on...I lived in St Anns Road, Harriett Worley is related to me, I also went to Holland Park School with Jimmy and spent many a happy time with them including Mary, Sid, Jim, NellBelle etc.. My brother John went to Saunders Grove School which you can see in Steptoe and Son, my dad used to go totting along with my brother Terry...lol

Alan, 53

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The Worley's lived in Grey house and I lived directly opposite in Champlain house. Winkle and me were great pals, Ronnie is the same age as my elder brother Pat, he would know us three boys. I last saw Winkle Worley in 1948.

Anybody else from our flats knows me, George. My elder brother Tom passed away in 2000. As I remember, Ronnie was a bit of a tearaway (weren't we all).

Hope that all of you are very well.

George, 70

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This photo was taken about 1947 at Blaxland House.

Starting top left: Pauline Renfrey, David Gorden, the girls name not known. Bottom left: Gerald Sharpe, Frances Baxter, Myself Tony Baxter, the girls name not known.

Can anyone identify themselves and the two unnamed girls.

Tony, 69

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My family lived in Bentinck house from 1972-mid 90s. I remember that there were very few cars in the courtyards or on the roads. There were lots of sheds in the courtyards and old wash houses/rooms in the blocks of flats where people would have cleaned/dried their clothes. I remember the parrafin man driving around the estate wailing/singing to let people know he had arrived and residents would run down with plasic cannisters and fill up to heat there homes.

The Adventure Playground was brilliant. Very dangerous by todays standards but it seemed to be open all the time especially during the summer holidays. There were huge wooden structures and swings and slides and they had a big bonfire on Guy Fawkes night.

You could hear the music and see the glare of the floodights from the White City Stadium and hear the roar of the speedway bikes/they also hosted dog racing.

I remember the Open Air Pool on Bloemfontein Rd. When it finally closed it was used for skate boarding before it was demolished so the white City Pools could be built which was later renamed the Janet Adegoke leisure Centre.

There was also Lime Grove swimming pools opposite the BBC building in Lime Grove. Lime grove had horrible footbaths and your clothes and shoes were stored on big iron hangers.

I went to Canberra infants/juniors. We dominated the borough athletics championships.We played under the blue pillars when it rained. I also attended Christopher Wren. In the first year you went to the Annexe in Erconwald street by the scrubs and then finally on to the main site in Bloemfontein Rd when when you got to the 2nd year. It was a tough school.The forms were W R E S C H and the houses were named Gibbons/Newton/Dryden/Clarendon.

Everyone got their chips from the South Africa rd fish bar. George,a big Greek Cypriot man owned it and all the kids played pinball which evolved into space invaders. He was a scary looking man but was actually very nice. His kids bikes/prams were stored in the shop by the big windows.

When Q.P.R were playing, the White City became a huge car park and you could easily hear the roar of the crowd on the other side of the A40/Western Avenue.

There was a newsagents/sweetshop called kents along he row of shops on Bloemfontein Road. The man who owned it was a real character who would sing and keep the kids in line. There were three sides to the shop and along the middle were shelves displaying big plasic bottles of sweets which you would buy by weight and was given to you in a paper bag.

As a teenager I spent my evenings at the youth centre at Wormholt Park School. You could play table tennis,learn about photography, play football. There was also a gym. Frank ran the gym. He was a small,strong man with blond hair and glasses. He had a great sense of humour and was very kind. He would organise competitions and sometimes girls would spectate and we would do our best to impress.

I still live locally and it seems to me that there is less for children/teenagers to do now than there was 25 years ago. Wormholt park has been neglected for 20 years. There was more apparatus to play on when i was a child than there is now. It's such a shame.

Rob, 39

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Hi Carole, I am sure I have got the right Ronnie.

As it was pointed out to me by Mr Kyriacou the guy who looks after this site (and what a magnificent job he is doing, what fun he has put back into our lives) you cannot put e/m addresses down it's far to risky, but if you and anyone else who would like to join in, and take a walk down to the taxi office in the car park at about 3 o/c on tuesday the 2nd Oct you will be able to have a cup of tea with two or three of our gang. Just make yourself known to Karen, my niece.

Jack, 75

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John your story was great, it brings back memories to a lot of people. Do your remember my brother Gerry (he was called Gerald when we lived Blaxland).

Who is the man in the suit in the pictures, did any of you silver surfers go to the White City reunion at Greenford about 3 years ago,it was set up by Gerry's pal Dave Whelan.

Does anyone remember Brenda Bishop, she married Knights the florist.

Joe I remember the old open pool the temp was chalked up at 70 degrees, the attendant was having a joke I think, as you say it was freezing.

Lily, Billy Gordon moved to Greenford and he had 2 daughters I believe, your brother Jim and I were best mates and although he did not know it at the time I only lived 2 miles away at Oxhey.

Hi Carole, I knew Ron very well and I can faintly remember you, I live in South Oxhey.

Well that's about all for now, keep the stories coming, I am sure there is a lot more in us all yet,

Best regards to you all.

Ken, 76

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My brother is Ronnie Worley he is 74 years old living in Northwood, we moved in 1948 I think. I live in South Oxhey where I moved with my family in 1948. Ronnie has 2 aeriel photos of most of the kids that lived in the flats in the late forties, I will try to get them and put them on this site.

Carole, 62

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Hello Jack, I've just read your latest input. About the map of the White City Estate, I rang Hammersmith Town Hall and a man named Rupert Burh.. sent me a copy which I sent to John, thanks for trying. Download the Map.

I enjoyed your latest input, I thought John's article would stir up some more memories.
I've also remembered gas masks, did we have them in school? If I smell wellington boots it reminds me of them.
Also barage balloons, silver floating everywhere in the sky, also searchlights flashing when it got dark.

Lila, 73

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Hi John, I would just like to say a big thank you for the mind boggling piece that you submited to this site, it's going to take some time to digest it all.
My two sisters Rene and Frances and I are all in the photo of the group of children, I also recognise two or three girls. It was nice to see the picture of your mum and Mrs Sharpe.

What follows is the piece I prepared a couple of days befor your piece came on.

Hi Gang, It's Jack from Blaxland.
I have a correction to make. In my last peice I mentioned Williams - I should have said WILLMANS' (what a wally).

Carole - When i saw the name Worley, Ronnie flashed into my mind,I am sure I knew him quite well. How old would Ronnie be now?

Lila - Plans are afoot to get what you asked. When I receive them I will get in touch with Carole for your address. Be prepared for a long wait, the people I am dealing with don't understand 'HURRY UP'
By the way Lila do you or members of your family have any photo's of the flats? (I think I now have the answer to that qustion).

Here's one to get the old grey matter working. Who remembers the elderly lady who took one hour to cross the A40? Can you imagine her trying to do that today? I beleive she lived in Ellenborough.

Terry Brent. Jimmy Borat. Leslie Fisher. Jill Sibley. Jean and Lily Willman where are you now?

What about the victory party we held in Blaxland and Auckland? All the mums contributed something, they made cakes, jellies, and not forgeting the old favourites SPAM sandwich. They erected the stage opposite where Ronnie Sharpe lived. My sister Frances who was six at the time got up on the stage and sang 'She wakes me every morning when the clock strikes eight'.

Jack, 75

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Click for John Proyer's Memories and Photos.

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Lila, the only information I have is that Billy Gordon lived in Ruislip Manor, Middlesex. Peter I heard has passed away, but I cant find any thing out about Jean, John or David Gorden, but i remember them well. I also remember Kenny Wyatt from Auckland House.

To Carol from Grey House, I remember the Worley bros but that's all I'm afraid.

Please does anyone know of a Brian Bishop, and his sister Brenda Bishop of Phipps House. Brian would be in his late sixties or early seventies. That's all for now.

Ken, 76

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The stories on this page bring back a lot of memories. Lets hope it grows with word of mouth or emails to old friends. Blaxland House have put in a lot of good stories (Champlain had the biggest "bommy"). Be nice to hear from other blocks.

Jim Mac, 70

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Carole,
Winkle Worley was one of my best mates, I lived directley opposite in 34 Champlain House. I would very much like to contact Billy, he will know me and also Jimmy Mac.

George, 69

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Hello Jack,
You asked how we found this site. My nephew was looking up our family name and came across this site. He told his dad who told Jean and me. I am going to photcopy all these letters and send to Eve in Canada. Eve and Jean do not have computers.

My brother John was trying to refresh his memory by remembering all the names of every block of flats on the estate, we have some blanks, is it possible to get a map?

Lila, 73

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I left the estate at about the age of 3. Mum and dad had a flat in Grey House I believe. I have two brothers Ronnie and Billy Worley. Mum and dad were Win and Bill. Does any one remember them?

Carole, 62

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Jack,
I am a few years younger than you, so you may be one of the boys who we used to pelt with water bombs (pee) from the top balcony of Blaxland House!! And then run like hell. Anyway, Champlain and Grey House were noted for the size of our -- bommies.

So nice to be in contact with people from so long ago. Last week I was passing through Shepherds Bush, so I thought that I would take a look at White City flats. It has changed quite a lot since our day. I spoke to an old lady who still lives there, and she said that it is terrible there now, what with gangs etc. I thought what's changed.

I saw our back window where we chucked out the guns, knives etc. that found on the arms dump. My elder brother Pat, 74, said do you remember Rubber D---, the watchman on the dump. He chased me once, but I was too nippy for him!!

A few memories for you all.

P.S. I have retired and live in Dorset, and Jimmy Mac lives in Hertfordshire.

George, 69

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Hi Lila!
What a wonderful surprise. I was hoping we would get a response from you or Jean and bingo - up you pop. Let's hope we get a few more from the estate, we have only got to hear from the Williams and that will crown it. By the way, what made you look on this web site? I saw Eve at your mum's house when she came over here on holiday, that must have been over 30 years ago. Why not send her the web address, I'm sure she would like to have some sort of input.

Rene is in contact with Mary Nicolls and she comes down and stays with her for the odd week. Rene sends her regards.

George and Jim - what is your occupation? You must be a couple of comedians, you're having a laugh. The gang from Auckland and Blaxland were second to none when it came to making fires. On Victory night, you could see the flames for miles. As a matter of fact, Ken and I still go over the dump to dampen down the ashes. As I remember, the fire was on the piece of waste ground behind where they built the General Smuts. Hearing from Lila has dragged a few more memories out of the old grey matter and that's her dad's chrome bike. What a wonderful looking thing it was, they don't make them like that anymore. I wondered what happened to it?

Lila - I do remember melting lead and smashing up all the leaded lights from the bombed out churches. The windows would be worth a fortune now. As far as I can remember we took the ingots down to Ellerslie Road, there were three garages down the far end and the guy there used to weigh them and pay us.

A question for Paul - do you remember 'Baytown Pigeon'?
All the best.

Jack, 75

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Hello Ken,
Just for your information Jean moved to Headstone Lane, Carmelite Road. Jim lived a few streets away in Courtenay Avenue with my mum. After she died I moved in with Jim for 5 years, when he died I moved to Epsom to be nearer my children.

Lila, 73

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Hi Lila,
Loved your piece. Your brother Jim and I both worked for Mr Baker the paper man together, we used to get up early on Sundays to deliver the papers and then about 10 o'clock we would go round again and collect the money.

We would often watch the dog fights (air battles between spitfires and German fighter pilots). I can see Jim now on his chrome bike when he came home from work.

Lila, did you move to Carmilite Road, Harrow Weald? My brother Gerald will know something obout Peter Gordon they were pals, that's all for now so come on all you silver surfers from the old white city estate lets be hearing from you. All the best to you all.

Ken, 76

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Most of my family delivered papers for Mr Baker, we didn't get pocket money then and had to earn it. I remember scrumping apples at Shaa Road, nice big cooking apples. I remember Mrs Sharpe sitting on the doorstep.

Although you mentioned some names, what about the Gordons, 49 Blaxland House and Godfrey and Ken Wyatt who lived in Auckland House. I remember the dump, we used to have bonfires, collect lead and melt it down, pour it into the top of a brick and make ingots.

During the war I remember watching from our balcony the German airplanes flying over and dropping bombs. What about the big gun on the scrubs Big Bertha firing all night.

That will do for now.

Lila, 73

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Hi Lila,
Nice to here from you. Glad Jack and I have jogged a lot of memories that was our intention. I did know that Eve went to Canada and that my old mate Jim had passed away. Tell me, I think you moved to Headstone Lane, Carmilite Road. I think, there is only Gerald and I left now. I am in touch with Jack Baxter and his brothers and sisters.

So come on Lily lets have some of your memories. I have a lot more stories to tell,they will appear soon.

Ken Sharpe, 76

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I want to give you the latest on the Proyer family. Eileen the eldest is now 81, Jim died about 7 years ago from a stroke, Jean who married Fred Cozens who lived in Hargreaves House recently moved to Yeovil, Eve, 75, moved to Canada in her 20s, John the youngest lives in Dorset and I'm Lila.

I will be writing again, you have all awoken a lot of memories!

Lila, 73

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Before I begin, to Jim and George of Champlain House I would like to discuss who had the biggest bon fire over a pint some time!

Does anyone remember the party we had for the whole 13 blocks on the estate for VJ night? Also, does anyone remember George Haliday (he was known as blind George) and he lived at 75 Ellenborough House and the family moved to Hudson Close. I am in contact with one of his sons named Bill he went off the rails (he became a chelsea supporter) only kidding Billy. I also see blind George's grandchildren. Who can ever forget blind George leading people home when we had the very thick fogs, he was an unforgettable gentleman.

That's all for now, so come on write in your memories of the white city estate, there must be a few of us left, and also anyone who lived in Blaxland House or Auckland house when it was bombed out by the doodle bug.

Regards to you all.

Ken, 76

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Hi, I lived in Champlain House. As my mate George has said we had the biggest bonfire in The White City. Phippes House accross the green used to try and light our fire early but we used to keep guard. We used to go in the shelter on air raids. We thought it was great. The next day we would look for shrapnel. Cant say too much of what me and George used to get up to but it was harmless fun.

Jim, 70

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I lived in Champlain house from 1939 to 1951 with my two brothers Pat and Tom (deceased). Anybody who lived there would know us three. I am in touch with one old friend who lived there then Jim Mc. It was a bad time during the war but we survived ok. To the chaps at Blaxland house, we had the biggest bon fires on guy fawkes day.

George, 69

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Hi, It's Ken again from Blaxland House with more memories of the White City.

Well done Jack we liked the piece about Harold. I dont remember the bit about the fags though.

Where shall I start.
How about the party we had on VE night in the court yard of Blaxland and Auckland houses. What a night that was, because we were all about 13 to 15 years old we were only allowed one weak, small shandy, but kids being kids we soon found out how to get more.

Does anyone remember the yanks who sang the Sinatra and Ella songs, or the make-shift band that played Glenn Miller music at the party. Or the young polish fighter pilots from Hendon that were there. (We owe the young men who fought in the last war so much for the freedom we have today).

I must mention my friend Mary Nichols who lived at 46 Blaxland, I did’nt mention in my last piece (but I did have a soft spot for you Mary). Does anyone remember going up to Jack's Cafe on the corner of Westway and Wood Lane, and playing the pin table machines, or the German pow's that used to ask us go in and get fags for them. Some were so young, one we spoke to was only 17, just 3 years older than me. He had lost his right arm and eye.

Well that's all for now.

Ken, 76

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WELL DONE KEN - YOUR PIECE WAS TERRIFIC!

Hi there! I am back again, it's Jack from Blaxland House, with more memories of the White City. Before I continue, I am sorry to have to tell you that we have lost another member of our gang, Harrold Sharpe who recently passed away. What stories he would have to tell us, but I hope his brother Ken will enlighten us with a few memories.

One thing I remember about Ken is that we all smoked in those days and he had a lovely cigarette case. He would buy a packet of 10 fags and only put one in the case and when you asked him for a fag, he would open his case and say, "look I have only got one left"! (Cigarettes were scarce in those days).

Harrold's family gave him a wonderful send off with many of his mates in attendance. I am sure he would have had a smile on his face if he heard some of the stories they were telling about him. I liked the one about the lady who left her case in his shop every week. I am sorry to say time catches up with us all eventually.

I do hope that some of the younger ones who may read this, find it interesting and informative. If any of your grandparents came from the White City, why not ask them to put down a few words on this site. It will certainly give us old ones some pleasure.

One place I must mention is the 'Dump'. That was an area of land inside Australia Road stretching down to Blomfontein Road. Why was it called the 'Dump'? When houses and shops were bombed, they put the rubble on lorries and brought it over to the dump, where eventually it reached the same height as the flats! I am sure there must be a few photos about. The only one I could come up with is Blaxland when it was bombed with a doodle bug. What a night that was! What sticks out in my mind is the blast, all the windows were blown out and doors came off. Thank God none of the walls came down.

There was also the time old gerry (germans) dropped a bomb on top of a milk train as it approached the walkway opposite the hospital. That was the signal for all the kids to get free milk. Thinking back, it must have been comical to watch, we swarmed all over the train with buckets, bottles, cans and anything else you could put liquid in. There was a guy I think from the Express in Wood Lane and he had a loudhailer shouting "boil the milk before you drink it".

I must mention the White City Stadium - during the war .... (I sound like Uncle Albert in Only Fools and Horses) it was used by the army to store equipment captured from the Germans, but the kids from the White City had a different idea. We decided to help ourselves, so it was once again over the fence. The prizes to get were daggers, belts and all other types of equipment. We were not angels but we did not get up to some of the things the youngsters get up to today. Mugging was not a word in our vocabulary. We could leave the door open all day and nobody would go in unless they were invited.

That's all for now, but if I get good feedback, I still have plenty more to tell you. So come on you White City golden oldies, if you lived in the flats during 1939-1950, share a few of your memories with us all.

Jack, 75

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My name is Kenneth Sharpe, I lived at 24 Blaxland house with my parents and my 3 brothers Cecil, Harold and Gerald. Sadly Cecil and Harold are no longer with us.

My bro Harold and his mate Fred (chunky) Manning used to work in Jim Barrets fruit and veg shop opp the pool in Blomfontein Road. I lived in Blaxland house from 1938 till I got married in 1955 and moved to Greenford.

The things I remember most of my childhood at the City, was when all the schools closed for about 2 years because of the blitz. We had double British summer time in those years and we used to play out till 11 oclock at night. I used to sell & deliver newspapers for Mr Baker who lived in Wormholt Road. I went to Wormholt Park school. My mother used to sit on her front step in the summer time to chat to passers by. Does any one remember scrumping apples in Shaa Road, East Acton? We all used to go to QPR, they used to let us in for nothing at half time.

I read with intrest the article by Jackie Baxter (how we got in touch again after about 50 years is a story for another time). There are so many friends I can mention, Jimmy Proyer and his sisters, Eileen Nichols and her family who lived at no. 1 Auckland House, Joan and Mary Nichols who lived at 46 Blaxland House, my old mate Ron (nutty) Woods who lived in Ellingbough House, Bert Taylor and his sisters who lived on the top floor of Blaxland House badly cut by flying glass when we got bombed out, Leslie Willman and his sisters,(Les died in his teens) we formed a cycle speedway team called the White City Racers (does any one remember us). Some of the riders we had were the Bevan bros and Jackie Zetta, the team were well known locally, just a few more people ii would like mention Neddy Holt and his sisters (and you bridget), Paddy Dooley who lived in Auckland House, Terry Brent and his lovely sister, and Tony Pople who set up a White City reunion at Greenford about 3 years ago.

That's all for now. There must be some of our old friends still around or the kids so please get in touch.

Kenneth, 76

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I remember Hammersmith county school for girls, the fun we used to have, walking through the park at lunch time to go and get a bag of chips. And the boys used to buy a loaf of bread rip it in half eat the bread in the middle and then fill it up with chips. I also remenber the comic JACKIE we used to buy each week.

Annette, 48

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I attended the Wren from 57 - 63 I recall Percival Bacon- eccentric ( to say the least ) science teacher - also the dandy English Lit teacher Leslie Chatterton as well as Mr Massey the French teacher who never forgave me for failing my French O level GCE despite being at the exchange summer camp in France (Benais) for 5 weeks. Also can remember investing my lunch money on 2 cup cakes and a bottle of Fling instead of eating at the cafeteria - happy days...

Keith, 60

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The roar of the crowd, some not too loud as they had won, the others who lost cursed. Hot nights, sudden downpour which caused the lights to burst, number six in his black and red did not win, some say it was because they put him in the box back to front! There was a posh restaurant where the filmstars sat and placed their wagers with the waiters. In the winter there was always the hot Bovril stand mixed with nippets soon made you forget just how cold it was. Yes you're right, I had gone 'to the dogs'. Story of my life, COME ON NUMBER SIX.

Paul, 72

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In memory of Dora and Gus Baxter.
Our Mum and Dad.

My name is John Baxter but I was always called Jack. I lived at 75 Blaxland House with my mum, dad, brother Tony and sisters Rene and Frances from 1939-1947. This page is called MY MEMORIES - well, what memories the kids of White City must have!

I don't quite know where to start, but I must mention a few names in our gang who are no longer with us, but I am sure they will not be forgotten. There was Billy Proyer and his brother Jim. Cecil Sharpe, Freddie Palmer (he was killed when the bomb fell on Blaxland House). Leslie Willman and Gordon Rentfree. There must be others. To anyone who knew them, it's like a roll of honour. What memories! There are still a few of the old gang about, Kenny, Harold and Gerrald, brothers of Cecil. Walter (Woggie) Jowers, Danny Grimes, Ronnie Sharp - I think he lived at No.22. Leslie Gordon, Jimmy Borat, Leslie Fisher - he lived at No.73....so many memories. I must not forget to mention the girls. First and foremost was my sister Rene. I will leave others to recall their memories of her and what memories they will have. Mary (the lookout) Nicholls and her sister Joan. Jean, Eve and Lily Proyer. Jean, Pat, and Lily Willman. There was the Blitz, I don't know how we all survived that. Thank God they never hit the pie and mash shop (Cooks). Can anyone tell me what they put in the pies during the war because all the meat was rationed?

There was the time I was evacuated with my brother Tony and sisters Rene and Frances and our friend Joan Nicholls. They sent us up to Leicester but we only stayed there for one night, we came back home the next day. I might add we did not tell anyone. That's a story on it's own. We made headlines in the national press the next day. I still have the paper cuttings. I must also mention all the mums, they went out to work and didn't know what they would find when they came home.

There was no social security as far as I remember. They didn't have the luxuries the young housewives have today. I could go on and on. I must not forget my old team QPR. Defences look no further than Arthur Jefferson and Sammy Able. They would show some of today's fairies how to kick the ball clear - by the way I still have some 1946-47 programmes. Then there was the Blomfontein Road swimming pool. During the war it was used as a temporary mortuary. Anyone killed in the bombing was laid out at the pool. The council in their wisdom put up canvas sheets against the railings so people could not see what carnage was being unleashed on the people of Hammersmith. Kids will be kids so it was a leg up and over the railings, what sights we were to see! There is so much more to say, things like the "Giant's Bowl", schools, how we earned a few bob.

Jack, 75

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The open air swimming pool on Blomfontein Road was just known as that. "Going over to Blom?" we used to ask our friends and then if enough money could be scraped together off we went. It was the only pool I ever knew that was shallow at both ends and deep in the middle. The water was freezing cold, the changing cubicles at the back had no locks and some no doors. The area around the pool was a scratchy concrete that grazed if you were foolish enough to sit on it or even worse fall over. At the sides were tiled areas, but these were occupied by tough kids, particularly the side that got the sun. For all this, we loved it, certainly more fun than going to the rival in Lime Grove or Lime Grave as we called it.

Susan, 47

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I remember the open air baths as a young child, being held above the balcony at Canning House for a bird's eye view. To the right of Canning house was the General Smuts and around the corner was the "shops". Those in particular were Charlottes (they sold things like threads, knitting stuffs and many things besides). There was Fred's fruit and veg shop and the cafe on the corner. There was also a sweet shop (the name evades me). Happy childhood memories.

Jacqui, 42

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I lived on the White City Estate from 1939 to 1947 and my abiding memories was the Doodle Bug that fell on Blaxland House, the block that I lived on. Fortunately I and my family were uninjured but many people we knew were killed.

Tony, 69

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The cold rain on your head walking down Bryony Rd, the hard nuts smoking outside the metal gates with their 10 hole dr martins on and madness badges on their jackets. Smell the fear as you walk past them to school. Wood, Metal, Plaster workshops laid out side by side just like prison, toilets: a no go area full of all the things mum says you must stay away from. Poor kids eating bread with brown sauce for lunch. Nowhere to get a drink of water, it's summer Wormholt Park full of kids and big gangs playing football till it's dark, dogs everywhere with no homes, walking home from school with no homework but a sports bag filled with mud from warren farm, a part of my life that was wasted on being bullied.

Tony, 42

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Gangs of boys, gangs of men, gangs everywhere. It was life and it was white city life. For all though there was fighting, muggings and burglaries, the estate seemed to get along with some type of intrinsic energy. I myself was petrified of the gangs but at the same time there was a buzz and excitement on the estate. Knowing when to hide in a block and where to run if chased. The infamous Mark and Keith terrorised many and they will forever remain part of the estate and in my memories. Their distinctive call to each other around the estate a type of crowing which was mimicked by wannabees.

I will never forget white city, neither will I forget the good and bad times, but I have now moved on and it is a good thing for to be honest there were more bad times then good.

Long live white city for the next generation but I must move on, farewell.

David, 26

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I was in the first intake when the Wrens opened, we lived at the Askew Arms, the Vale it was a long walk, OK in the Summer, but not so good in the Winter. I had some good times at the Wrens. I ran for the school many times at the White City and played football as well. Did not do very well at exams, no GCSEs etc., too much training for sports! I had some good mates, but I must admit the school had its dark side at times very, very violent, blackmail, extorting money with threats of violence, I'm so glad I could run so fast, but felt sorry for those who could not, in life I've been a soldier and, believe it or not, a policeman - now retired. Well good luck to you all, bye.

John, 62

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I lived in Evans House on the White City Estate until November 68, aged 14. No cars parked in the yards, these were ours to play and run in. No dogs, I would lie on the back grass on summer days staying at sky. A family of six in a two bedroomed flat, the "no parking" cones set out all around the estate for the big crowd that never turned up for the 1966 World Cup group match played at the White City Stadium. Running round the outside of the stadium and back down South Africa Road as kids, making up bundles of firewood out of orange boxes to try and sell, poking bangers through letter boxes and legging it, big blokes playing football in the "Cage" on a Sunday afternoon, the roar of the QPR crowd, crawling under the turnstile to get in for nothing, the egg and spoon races at Livingstone school, the dinner ladies and extra puddings at Elleslie school, Albert Blankesley (aged 11) smoking behind the blocks, telling me it was damaging his health, the slipper and cane at Christopher Wren school and Mr Toms pushing a large ice cream into the startled face of the boy guzzling it. Forging the signature of Mr Cook to get a pass-out note at lunch time, muddy cross country at Wormwood Scrubs, looking over the wall at the girls in Hammersmith County, football at Sudbury, with (ex QPR) "Iron Man" Jefferson scything the ball off the goal-line, inches from my head, his daughter Linda at Elleslie school. Boys at Elleslie (Martin) and Christopher Wren (David) killed by cars close to the schools. An upright piano falling on my toe as my brother and I wheeled it to bonfire site (where the old prefabs stood). Two women fighting in yard of Mackay House, Eccentric ballad singer "Joey" performing in the yards to try and get money, the coalman and grinder of the knife sharpener. Delivering newspapers for Mac's newspaper shop while dodging the council "working age checkers", collecting shoes for Paynes on the Blomfontein Road. We got 2/6 in the pound commission so we tried to persaud a customer who just wanted heel repairs to have the soles done too. Riding, repairing and painting our bikes. Painting my name in blue on the top of the low wall just outside 8 Evans House, Sheltering under our towels on hot summer days in the New (Hammersmith) Park. Insisting my older brother keep a promise to take me swimming on a cold day in the freezing Blomfontein Road outdoor pool.

Joe, 52

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I lived on the White City Estate and went to Christopher Wren from 59-65. I didn't realise at the time but I was given a good education which has served me well. We had weekly rowing lessons on the Thames at Barnes, swimming at the open-air pool and, on one ocassion the school games at the White City stadium!

Tony, 58

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Attended Wren 1956-1960 when I left to join the University of Life. Have happy memories of Wren when I could be bothered to show up, much to the dismay of Headmaster Charlie Boot and Master's including messrs Powell, Rickman, Matthis, the lunatic who used to run the gymnasium called Underwood, the somewhat effeminate Mr Chard and my best mate Rodney Coombes with whom I spent many hours ducking the onslaught of school bully David Noakes and his little gang of hangers on who ruled the school with an iron fist until that wonderful day when Noakes was put to flight with a left-hander. Happy Days! Be lucky! Roy (forms 1G 2B2 3A and the rest is history.) p.s. would love to hear any memories of the school except from Noakes.

Roy, 60

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I used to go to Christopher Wren School in the late 50`s & 60`s,we used to have swimming lessons in the open air pool. Very cold sometimes, great memories. What has happened to the school, any school mates like to get in touch?

Stephen, 61

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I used to go to The Hammersmith School (Now Phoenix High School) and lived in the borough until 2000. A lot of changes have been made since, both good and bad.

Stasia, 25

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Janet Adekoge was the first swimming pool I went to. I remember when I went there with my school and now that it's knocked down my school has to go to East Acton to swim. I really enjoyed going to Janet Adekoge because I learnt how to be a good swimmer. I also used to go there for parties and with relatives, I'm really upset that they knocked it down because I had good memories there.

Melissa, 9

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I remember when i used to go to Janet Adegoke with my school. It was great fun and i was very sad when i found out it was going to be knocked down. There was 3 groups. Some in the learning pool which was a little pool to the side of the real pool. Then there was the middle group which would go in a pool a bit deeper. Then there was the big group who were very advanced swimmers. They even got to go in the diving pool!

Jason, 11

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I remember when me and my class went to the janet centre. We were there to swim and have contests with each other. It was great fun. I am sadly sorry for the swimming pool to break down but then i heard they were building another centre!

Zainab, 12

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i went there with my class. And i leart how to swim. It was very nice. Especially the decoartions.There was 3 sections altogether.

Khadijah, 10

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i used to to go there with my school and learn how to swim. There were 3 groups, one group was swimming in the shallow water, the other group was swimming in the deep water,and the last group swimmed in the middle.

natasha, 11

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I can remember going to the Open Air Pool with my Dad and Brother, sometime in the 1950's I think. All the girls and women had to wear rubber hats. They were horrible - hard to get on and really pulled your hair. But it was all worth it - the pool was great fun and my Dad taught me to swim.

Sue, 57

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