Solihull Online would like to hear your memories of growing up in Solihull during the 60's. If you would like to add to this page, we would love to hear from you. Click on the links below to view memories of that period 1930's | 1940's | 1950's | 1960's | 1970's | 1980's | 1990's

Posted Monday, March 1, 2010
Early 60s I had just left Holy Souls School and went to Olton Convent. Does anyone remember the lady that lived in the convent (courtesy of the nuns I suspect) and used to come round at break time and ask one of us to help collect the empties from all the classrooms. The smell of warm milk used to make me heave. I was friendly with Moira laing (We are still in touch) Donney Wareing, Pat Barrett and Veronica Gertner, Veronica Heart, Terry DeJong and cycled to school with someone who lived in Danford lane and I cant remember her name. We had a history teacher called Mrs Mazuka who used to use polish pamphlets to teach from we used to cream out of the room one by one when she was writing on the board and anyone remember going to the chapel where we weren't allowed to talk inevitably I got the giggles helplessly. The netball courts with the gravel pitches. .We used to go to Macfisheries supermarket cafe and put on our make up in the toilet. We used to go to the Friary Youth Club. I spent my summers at Solihull Lido and used to go to The Track, trampolining and socialising. My mother was one of the McGauleys who were a very large Catholic family and lived on the Blossomfield Road where as a child she played tennis across and took down the net if a car came along. I have three lovely daughters and am now married for the second time and live in Dickens Heath having brought up my children in the lovely village of Hampton in Arden.
Macrina Enock (nee Waters)

Posted Monday, March 1, 2010
This is such a great website - brings back memories.  My sister (Elaine) and I were both born at Sorrento Hospital.  We moved to 72 Cranmore Boulevard in 1962 (our neighbours were Angela and Fred Kane and their sonny Danny - who was quite a hotty.  We emigrated to South Africa in 1968.  Elaine and I both attended Cranmore Infant School and then Shirley Heath.  Friends at school were Carol Pearson, her father was a policeman and they lived in Longmore Road opposite Akkers (?) the newsagents.  Akkers had great Kaylai (not sure about the spelling - sherbet that was 3p.
Deborah Shackleton and her brother John who lived in Widney Lane, their mom was a teacher.  Ian Jones, David Beckett (his mom was a nurse) and my first love at the tender age of about 7 or 8 years was Graham Davis maybe Davies.  A tall girl in our class called Angela (Kirk?)
John Owen (ginger hair) who used to live in South Africa at one stage.  Twins Robert and Janet Kendall who lived close to Deborah in Widney Lane - think they moved to Nottingham.
Remember the chip van coming down the road on Friday nights.  Playing Dr Who and the daleks and cricket with Sarah and Simon (twins)in the right of way at the back of the houses. Their grandad was our local traffic lollipop man.  Sneaking into the back neighbours garden to play in his bomb shelter.  Pussy willow and elderberry trees.  Taking my aunt's boxer, Buster, for a walk in Widney Woods and picking blackberries.  Racing our bikes up and down the pavement with Beverley, her uncle was Richard Martin who worked for my uncle Peter Coakes at his architectural business on the corner of Stratford Road.  Richard and his wife Sylvia came to live in South Africa and ended up buying the house four houses down the road from us.  
Spending weekends at various cricket grounds with my dad who played at Friends Hall Cricket Club - can remember Valerie Halford - lived in Knowle I think and her dad's name was Vic.  At a Coventry match I jumped into the canal for a dare - needless to say I couldn't swim and one of the cricketers saw me and jumped in to rescue me. 
Eventually going for swimming lessons at Tudor Grange - the teacher was hopeless, spent more time manicuring her nails than teaching us.  Can always remember how horribly hot one of the pools was and the over powering smell of chlorine.
My uncle Alec used to own the Clarke's greengrocer on Stratford Road, there was one in Kings Heath as well and I think my cousin John may still have the one in High Street.
Came back for a year in 1981 and recall visiting the Snooty Fox - great music.  There was also a wine bar close by.  Also got the chance to go and see Santana in Birmingham - brilliant!!
Bought white jeans from a shop in High Street - communal change room and I had to lie on the floor and do the zip up with a coat hanger - what on earth was I thinking - I could hardly catch my breath but thought I looked oh so cool.
Strange how the mind remembers all these things.
Anita Sinclair


Posted Tuesday, February 23, 2010
I was most interested to read the articles regarding Mrs Martineau of Touchwood Hall.  I have a photograph (right) of Mrs Martineau's son, Captain Clement Martineau, who died of wounds in Belgium 5th May 1918, aged 21. Looking at this picture, it is easy to understand why Mrs Martneau was devastated however, she would have been given details of his death (he died of wounds in a German Field Hospital) and where he was buried, so it's unlikely she would have expected him to return.  If anyone has more information regarding the family, I'd be pleased to hear it.
Paul Manning


Posted Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Hello, I attended what was known as Tudor Grange Special School in Blossomfield Road during the years 1962/1967. The Headmaster's name was Mr. Evans & he lived with his family in the lovely old house in the grounds. I have very, very (even after all this time) fond memories of this period & would be thrilled to find out a little more info from this period. I was an Asthma sufferer & approx 50 live in boys & girls boarded full time at this wonderful Tudor house which of course is still there. If anyone could shed a little light on this period, names of which I can recall many although Marion (Evans) has stayed in my thoughts to this day. I live & wait in hope...
Phil Matthews

Posted Monday, February 8, 2010
I have very fond memories of Solihull in the 60's and 70's...... does anybody remember and/or know where Bob Moleston is now?  Also Alan Dempsey, Richard Stanley, Dave Cull, Alison Alexandra, Caroline Chesney, Liz Skippings, the Gilbert sisters... gosh it goes on and on....
Alan Hunt

Posted Monday, February 8, 2010
Debra Paul, I have just seen your comments -you don't seem to have an email link -please see if you can contact me, we were only talking about your mum a couple of weeks ago as my dad celebrated his 80th birthday!
Helen Thatcher (now Perkins)

Posted Monday, February 1, 2010
I have just found this website great to hear about old Solihull, I went to Lode Heath 1959-64. My parents looked after an Off Licence in the High Street (Mackey and Gladstone now Macdonalds) bought my ice cream from the Bon Bon and went to the old cinema and saw all the ELVIS films. I had a friend Margaret Pedrick who lived in either Mill Lane or Drury Lane not sure which. If any one knows her I would love to hear.
Sandra Dennis (nee Wilson)

Posted Wednesday, January 20, 2010
I have just found this site reading about Mr & Mrs Rippen from the sweet shop hatchford brook. I thank them for all the hard work with boys brigade we all enjoyed it thankyou
Ian Neale

Posted Monday, January 11, 2010
Saw the posting from John Cooper and I think I remember you John. Did you live near the allotments in Widney Road ? If so, I was a friend of your brother George, and I think you have a sister called Dianne. I lived in Mill Lane and then Slater Road. I remember that George and I attended the 1st Knowle Scouts in Dorridge. The hut was near the rail line, I think, off Forest Road. I seem to remember that the Scoutmaster was Mr Yapp. A very short but dynamic leader. Does anyone else remember attending scouts around this time ? Martin Uzzel comes to mind and Roger Stansby, Peter Street. My old ex Royal Navy friend Harold Amschel probably attended too. I remember a group of us from this troop attended the Scout Jamboree in Sutton Park. Must have been around 1957 or 1958 I think. George Cross was one of the senior Scouts who looked after us youngsters. Living in Uganda at present, but would like to hear from anyone who remembers me.
Barry Leech

Posted Monday, January 4, 2010
I lived in wydney rd bentley heath 1950 to 1970 attended dorridge primary and arden high I Have lived in australia since 1970 I have been back to solihull many times. does any one remember me It would be great to get in touch with old friends
John Cooper

Posted Monday, November 30, 2009
What memories this website brings back thanks to Phil Baker. I was born in the prefabs Laburnam Lane the  moved to the corner of Mordown Ave and Brackleys Way, have been in contact with Bob Smith fantastic after all these years. I attended Ulverley Junior school & remember Mr Daniels & had more than my fair share of the slipper off Mr Garner. My Dad worked at Braggs with my uncle Jack and my cousin Graham Boggis father uncle Bill. I then went to Lyndon for 18 months then we moved to Hockley Heath where the I went to Arden High. I remember Mr Grey the Beak, Mr Cummings, Mr Wilkinson, Mr Saunders, Mr Bailey, Mr Hartley, Mr Budds, Mr&MrsBull, Mrs Sutton, Killer Collins, Miss Greenwood was our form mistress in 4T and she gave Ginger Albutt a good slapping for being a little bugger in class. I left school in 1964 & did my apprenticeship at Silvester & Sons as a cabinet maker and furniture restorer. I remember great days at the Greswold pool, Wilsons Arms disco, Masons Arms, and the Boot Inn Lapworth. With Peter Allen who now lives in Melbourne Aus. I left for Australia in 1969 and live permanently in Mandurah Western Australia. I have been back to the UK many times 2005 to bury my father John Cooper from Widney Rd. Graham Boggis from Milton Rd & myself came to Australia together. John lives in Noosa Heads, New South Wales Aus. Graham lives in Springfield Boston Mass, USA visited him in 2007 while on a trip to USA. John visited WA two weeks ago and I caught up him. My mother lives in Alcester and is at the ripe old age of 91 and still going strong and looking after herself in her own home. My wife Norma & myself will be visiting my Mother for Christmas 2009 on the 18th December and would like to catch up with old friends and old times My mobile No 0418935387. Thanks for a great website brings back so many memories. I do remember the Davies Triplets & Sheldon Matinee, and I used to go to the church next to the Olton Hall Pub. Great times great memories, Yours In The Outback King Arthur. Stay cool live long.
Arthur Pincham

Posted Monday, November 2, 2009
I lived in Castle Lane, Olton.  My brother and I used to play on the canal embankment with friends without ever getting hurt. Our old collie used to lie on the pavement outside the house so everyone would have to walk 'round him - it was never a problem to anyone. I went to Ulverly Junior.  My best friend was Judith Whitworth who lived down the street but I dont think she went to the same school.  I have a picture of 3 of my friends taken on a school trip to Stratford around 1963 - memory may be off but I think one is Susan Richardson, another was Barbara Wootton I think.  I went to Mrs McKay's ballet school somewhere in Solihull I think. Happy days.
Jill Bagnall nee Varnon

Posted Friday, October 16, 2009
I spent quite a few pleasant evenings at the Cresta Club in Solihull. Two acts which stand out in  memory were Harry Secombe (now deceased), and on another occasion Susan Lane, a wonderful and beautiful operatic singer with a cute lisp. Does anyone know what became of her?
John Nicholls

Posted Monday, September 21, 2009
Would like to make contact with Heather and Terry Osbourne from Manor Farm as their grandfather and my grandmother where brother and sister.
Ann Hartwright

Posted Tuesday, September 1, 2009
OMG! I was browsing the net looking for something about Solihull. I lived in Burman Road, Shirley then emigrated to Australia when I was 12.  I went to Haslucks Green Primary as did my brothers Mitchell and Scott. I remember Karen Morris, Carol Webb, Darrell Fleming (was my brother best mate).  Does anyone remember Granny Smith a teacher at the school, she scared the hell out of me!  I had Mr Underhill in 3A and then Mrs White (I think) in 4b.  We used to go down to the drawbrige to fish - only ever caught sticklebacks. I went riding with our old neighbour who had horse at Catherine De Barnes riding school but then it became a quarantine station for the foot and mouth outbreak. We caught the bus once a week to go to the Tudor Grange baths for a swim and occasionally to the Lido if dad wasn't working. I remember walking across the park to go to the Odean Cinemas for the Saturday morning matinees.  I attended Lighthall until second form then left for Austraila. I still check out old places we used to hang out as kids and I really miss collecting blackberrys on the bridle path, they spray them as noxious weeds out here.
Deznie Lachlan was Weatherly

Posted Monday, August 24, 2009
I remember in 1966 buying a new Lambretta Scooter from a dealer on Stratford Road Shirley located virtually opposite Solihull Rd. Does anybody know the name of the shop/dealer. I understand it may have been owned by a Mr Rickard.
Melvyn Weake

Posted Friday, August 7, 2009
I lived in Howard Rd and went to Chapelfields infants and juniors (Mr Weatherburn head master) in the 1960s.  Can anyone remember the bomb shelter in the play ground and the look out tower on top of the school?? Also does anyone remember the tip on Richmond Rd now the sports field? I used to catch many stickle backs in the brook that went through the park, now sadly covered.
Neil Clark

Posted Monday, August 3, 2009
Reading these wonderfull memories only brings one thing to the front of my mind, didnt we all have a wonderful free and enjoyable childhood.  No H&S or P.C. We all played for hours unsupervised and most of us came to no harm at all,it only made us stronger and more capable of dealing with life.I lived in Fallowfield Road by Elmdon Park. We played in the park every day, riding bikes and being chased by the "parky". We played in the swamp in the lake and made dens in the woods. Got very wet, cuts and bruises, even gang warfare, but we all survived. From scooters, soap box carts, sledges to push bikes and motorbikes.  Spent a lot of time in early 1960's at Fordrove Farm, Damson Lane, I remember Barbara Walters, Chris Jones, Alan Lines and Dianna Shaw . This area is now the Damson Wood Estate. At 14 I was driving tractors on the Rover test track to get access to the fields while they were testing the Rover cars. At the back of the farm was a place where Charlie Harrod kept old scrap cars. Being fairly handy, we would get them started and race them round the farm when he was gone. The final straw was when he brought an old double decker Midland Red bus in. We got it going, lost control and it finished up in a ditch. We said "Charlie must have left the hand brake off".
Good memories of the farm and the Walters family.  Does anyone remember Henwood Riding Stables in Cathrine de Barnes. Spent a lot of time there with John Talbot and all the regulars plus Maggie Perkins. All in all, I think those early days were fab. As I read the stories on this site it does make you think what a wonderful time we had then and my grandkids cannot experience anything like what we did. We were so lucky.
Geoff Bridgwater

Posted Monday, July 27, 2009
Lived in Springfield Crescent as a kid, went to Hatchford Brook, originally at the infants class before Valley Infants opened. Mrs Jones was first teacher, remember the Ridgeway twins Peter and Christine, Jaqueline Garrett, Peter Smith who I am still in contact. Hatchford Brook juniors was great, friends Terry Brown, Dave Fellows, Johnny Creba, Glen Royal, Steve Jones, Paul Kelly, girls I remember Linda Weaver, Sally Allen, Jean Badger, Rosemary Wigley ( always fancied Rose but too shy to tell her ). Went to Lyndon, remember Rob Bishop, Charlie Bowen, Dave Durden, Rod Ellis, Steve Stokes who is my brother in law.  Best memories of these times were at the ice rink, too many friends to mention now, will add more later.  
Hedley Fairbotham

Posted Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I visited Solihull in Summer 1968 with a school exchange group between Tudor Grange an a school in Karlsruhe, Germany. I'm looking for my host Helena Courts. She had a younger sister called Naomi and a litte brother. She got married to Jack Jugurnauth, moved to London and was a teacher for French and German. Her eldest daughter is called Sara. Does anybody knows where she lives nowadays? I would be most Grateful.
Gertraude Kaiser

Posted Thursday, July 9, 2009
I attended Lyndon High School in 1960,I played centre forward for the school team, hence the nickname DIXIE. My mates I remember were Graham Ramsay (nickname Plod). He migrated to the USA, becoming one of the finest soccer coaches ever, he is still in the states  recently emailed him, he used to live in Pearce Avenue Olton. I remember Bertie Bodfish, also Martin Tune, I actually lived in Chapelfields Road, and spent literally all my spare time playing football in Jubilee park, I think the parkeeper was called Tom. I am now living in The Kingsbridge area of South Devon,but will always retain fond memories of the area, any contacts, would love to hear from you..
Alwyn John Dean (Dixie)

Posted Monday, July 6, 2009
I am attempting to get in touch with a friend called Christine Hunter. At the time I knew her she was living in Bossingham Road Olton, Thanks.
Jack.Balchin

Posted Monday, June 29, 2009
Spent the first 20 odd years of my life living in campden green, 100 or so houses and two kids or more in most of them. 20 a side football matches on the green, cricket in the summer, kids used to come from all the surrounding streets to play.
Arthur Smith

Posted Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Thanks to David Leeches brother, we are now in touch after 45 years and spoke for the first time last friday, we plan to meet up soon.
I remember the beak from Arden High School, does any one remember Shella Knibbs? Or a girl names Pat West who lived in Knowle, or Richard Partridge who lived in Bentley Heath, and moved to Barn Lane? Solihull. This site causes memories to flood back, and I recall the chap on the three wheel tric like yesterday. Does any one remember the disco's at the Civic Centre? Or the Cat in the Window Cafe on the canal bridge on the Warwick Rd just out side Knowle on the way to the Black Boy pub on the Grand Union Canal.
Jack.Balchin

Posted Monday, May 18, 2009
I lived at 125 Station Road Knowle. I worked after leaving Arden High School, at Station Garage Dorridge, and Hulls garage Hockley Heath, if any one remembers me , please drop me a line, I used to knock about with David Leech and Jonney Owen from Bentley Heath. Thanks
Jack Balchin

Posted Monday, April 27, 2009
I am trying to trace the BRIAN LATHAM who worked for BSA in 1960 and took cine film of my parent's Fred Beech and Mary Owen's wedding in April 1960. It is their golden wedding anniversary next year and they have never seen the recording. There is an entry about a Brian Latham which was posted 27/09/2005 which I believe may be the Brian in question. Any help to trace him would be appreciated
Steve Beech

Posted Saturday, April 11, 2009
In reply to Francis Sharkey - I remember Dr Cartwright well!  He practiced fro his house on Warwick Road, Olton, opposite the parade of shops on Dovehouse Lane.  When I was in Olton Brownies, about 1950, I had to go to a meeting at his house and assisted him with some magic tricks, and produced a bowl of Cadbury's Roses.  I can also recall Chidley the dentist, also on that row of shops.
Aileen Gray (nee Black)

Posted Thursday, March 12, 2009
Would love to find school friends from lyndon. well had lovely memories of the senior school Jenny Wright the headmistress and i used to be staff server after Jenny my sister left. love to find Linda nee Firth. she was a dear friend. hope someone sees this so they can pass it on.
Babs nee Wells

Posted Monday, March 9 2009
to Peter Lakin
Yes you are right it was my brother gerry. i rung him and told him and have now told him the site where i had written. i really miss solihull. we had a lot of wonderful years there. so many great ones and we used to go to the back of the church on the bikes as well. i was shocked to see another chip shop down hobs moat now. i used to love to see the horses at the stables by the top end of the rover.we used to ride them down through elmdon to the rover. ha ha
baba@hotmail.co.uk

Posted Wednesday, February 25 2009
I lived in Moat Lane in Solihull and went to Lode Heath School from 1960 - 1964 I remember the farm in Moat Lane that became the council yard my brother Michael used to take all our visitors to see the pigs the farm was run by a family named Cull Susan and David were the children's names . I also remember the shop in Hermitage road that sold penny and halfpenny sweets in the brown wooden trays.  Memories
Linda Hancock (Davis)

Posted Monday, February 23 2009
I remember the Mason's Arms being one of the best pubs around during the late 60s and 70s, with a great bunch of people (both sexes). Then, on Saturday nights the Old Sils Disco was usually a place to finish things off at!! Anyone remember???
John Startin-Field

Posted Monday, February 23 2009
Message for Barbara (Babs) Wells.... I'm pretty sure your brother Gerry (Jerry?) Wells was one of my best playmates in my Primary School years. Even though I went to Dolphin Lane School in Olton (because they took me from aged 4) - I lived at 170 Summerfield Road, and Gerry lived in just about the corner pre-fab on Highwood Avenue. This was in the days before the Highwood Pub was built, of course. That used to be waste-ground, where we would play and play, chasing butterflies in the summer... happy days!
Peter Lakin

Posted Monday, February 23, 2009
Living in Johannesburg, South Africa for the last 26 years, one tends to lose touch with many friends and people in general. The 1st time i posted a letter on your site, i was amazed that i had several emails from people of my past, some of whom i haven't seen in more than 30 years. My sister, Helene who now lives in Teddington, M'sex has found the site fascinating. My brother Tim is coming to Jo'burg in 4 weeks for the 1st time since I've been here. He has lived in Belgium for 30 years.
We all went to St Augustines in Solihull and had such a happy childhood, living on Kenilworth Rd in Knowle and almost in the country. We would all explore the Bluebell woods, behind Bates Hall, or go to the canal at the bottom of Kixley Lane. (we lived directly opp Kixley).
The people who have contacted me have all brought back lovely memories for me. Barry Leech, who's  father was the local milkman and also lives here in S.Africa, contacted me. Olwyn (aka Olly) Pembridge (nee Liddell} who i haven't seen in almost 30 years. She was also a local teacher in Kixley Lane, and last but not least, a friend of my late brother George, Adrian Edgington. Thank you all for writing such lovely letters to me. If anyone remembers me or my family, i would love to hear from you. You can write to either my sister Helene or me to make contact
Nicole Rayson [now Fitzsimmons]

Posted Wednesday, February 18, 2009
What a magic site. Many fond memories of the ice rink. I was one of the original DJs at Hatchford Brook in the days when the Friday night disco used to pull in 700(remember the Liquidator?). I was also a regular at the Boggery, even played my 12 string there as a guest one night. I later DJ'd at the Swan Yardley, does anyone know what happened to my fellow DJ Paul Kelly?
Mark Henshaw

Posted Friday, February 13, 2009
Yes I remember Dr Cartwright, he was my GP. His surgery was the large white house on the corner of Grange Rd and Warwick Rd opp. Dovehouse Lane. I think he retired in the mid 1960's
Lindsay nee Woodcock

Posted Thursday, February 5, 2009
I've just discovered this wonderful site by accident but am so glad that I did. I was born in Brook House in 1956 and was actually delivered by Dr. Cartwright, who Francis Sharkey was asking about only yesterday. He was a real doctor and was our family doctor. My uncle who lives in Barston (now in his 70s) is still very friendly with the family. My grandparents lived in Alderbrook Road but before that they lived near the Rover factory because she used to tell us the story about how she and my uncle were once shot at by German planes whilst crossing what was a cornfield by the factory. My parents and me and my brother (Neil) and sister (Debbie) lived on the Warwick Road up until about 1964 when we moved out to Knowle/Lapworth (Bakers Lane). My brother went to Cedarhurst and I remember him being scared of Mr. Callaghan. My sister and I went to St. Martins, initially Alice House which was the Junior school in Homer Road, then the big school. I remember so many people there, especially Miss. Clements and Mrs. Dallow at Alice House. Also Olivia Duggins and Josephine Brown. I was sent away to boarding school in 1967.I remember the Midland Educational, Ray Hitchcocks and of course Beatties. My father used to drink in The George Hotel and my parents got married at St. Alphege church in December 1953. I remember tobogganing outside the Civic Hall whilst my Mum went shopping and there was a field opposite with a couple of old horses. I also remember my Dad going to see Giant Haystacks wrestling at the Civic Hall. I live in London now but go back sometimes when I visit my uncle who was recently in Solihull Hospital which has changed like everything else (not for the better unfortunately). Would love from anyone who remembers me or my family. When we were older we used to drink at The Punchbowl in Lapworth and The Boot, also The Forrest in Dorridge with Peter Lane and his sons. 
Victoria Cheston

Posted Monday, February 2, 2009
I lived in Cheshire Ave Ave until I was six and like Peter T I was born in Brook House. I remember school quite vividly Burman Infant School. I remember a lovely teacher Miss Kerr and others who were ogres so I won't name them. My best friend at the time was Jeanna and I was very sad when I had to leave. We often came back to visit as my grandparents lived in Hall Green. I remember going to the shops with my Brother in a huge pram and me sitting on top. At floor level there were open boxes selling things like dog biscuits and I got told off for taking and eating one! Great to read everyone else's memories.
Judy Cope

Posted Monday, February 2, 2009
Does anybody remember a Doctor Cartwright, I believe he lived on Warwick Road near Olton but I don't know where he practised, if indeed he was a GP or whatever they were called then.
Francis Sharkey

Posted Friday, January 23, 2009
I came across this site quite by accident and decided to read everyones memories. Imagine my surprise to see someone remember me. Tony Corrie was my dance partner at Haslucks Green. He used to dig the garden for Mr Underhill when we were in 4B. The teacher spotted "I love Pauline" written on his hand so he gave me a pair of scissors and told me to dead head the carnations right by where Tony was digging. Mr Underhill was my favourite teacher. I used to wait for his car to arrive every morning so that I could carry his briefcase to the classroom. The last day at Haslucks was very sad, all the girls were crying, all the boys were trying to be brave. We were all moving on to the next stage of our lives "single sex schools". I returned to Haslucks Green to do my teaching practise but sadly Mr Underhill was no longer there. I married Dave Wood in 1972. We have 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren and now live in Michigan USA. We return to Shirley frequently as we both still have family there.
Pauline Lewis

Posted Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Amazing that one man on a tricycle has had such a big impact on so many of our memories. Yes, I remember him vaguely. Lived by the Dovehouse parade. Played mainly on Golf course, acessing it from the footPosted Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Amazing that one man on a tricycle has had such a big impact on so many of our memories. Yes, I remember him vaguely. Lived by the Dovehouse parade. Played mainly on Golf course, acessing it from the footpath that ran from Heaton Road. Once in the small woods by the car park, there was a set of three lengths of hedging that ran round the edge and a tunnel behind. I nicknamed the tunnels Tom, Dick & Harry and used them to access the larger woods at the back of the course. Also played in the woods by the reservoir off Grange Road. There was a towering windmill type construction there with a ladder to the top. I never quite got the courage to go all the way to the top. Went to St. Martins and then Bishop Glancey schools. Took the bus to the Barley Mow. Then walked through woods to the back of the parade of shops which included the Midland Educational, through a walkway inbetween 2 shops coming out opposite St. Martins. For Bishop Glancey it was then up the road by St. Martins, into Tudor Grange park and a trek over the park itself. A wonderful science teacher there let me keep my mice in the science lab as my parents had banned me from having them. Mr Hill the form teacher really cared and was excellent. Pretty sure I went round Berry Hall at least once. Certainly fished for Sticklebacks. From Olton hollow going towards Solihull, on left just after railway bridge, through fencing, was excellent stream for sticklebacks. Olton library, there was a guy who ran that place for it seemed forever. He was a bit of a character, quite stern and I think censored what books I could have out. Mereside Riding stables and Ann Mays in Shirley, where if they knew you well enough you could take a horse or pony out by yourself for an hour. 10 bob for a horse or 7/6p for a pony. Yes, fond memories.
Monica

Posted Tuesday, January 20, 2009
I came across this website purely by accident. What wonderful memories of Chapel Fields Infants and Junior School which I attended from 1962 to 1968. I think my first teachers name was Miss Seymour and my headmistress's name may have been Miss Chester, (in the Infants). I remember Mr. Weatherburn, the headmaster in Juniors and I will never forget Mr. Bailey and Miss Glover who, wherever they saw me, used to stop me and fire the question, Jeanette, what's 7X8, at me! I also have great memories of the playground at Chapel Fields, we used to imagine monsters and all sorts in that air-raid shelter. There was also a huge Oak tree in the corner of the large field which had a great big slope which we used to roll down in the summer, oh bliss. I wonder if they ever cleaned the boys toilets, they always used to pong to high heaven?? Also Lyndon High School for Girls. Our Headmistress's name was Miss Harrison, I think she got married the year I left? I also remember Miss Rickard Geography teacher, Miss Willoughby RE teacher, Mrs Smith nee Perry PE teacher and I seem to remember a Mrs Jones as well who I think was another PE teacher, Miss Aries who was an art teacher and also my form teacher in the first year, Miss Collins and Mrs Brewer who were needlecraft/domestic science teachers. I remember going cross country running, in all weathers, in the fields behind the school, which is now a housing estate. My form teacher's name was Miss Richards who we had for 2 years. A few of the girls I remember are Michelle Cobain, I think I went to Junior school with her, if my memory serves me right, Marion Upton, Linda Sherriff, who I think married a footballer, Anita Evans and Jeanette Sassano.  I lived in Rushbrook Close and there ia a gully at the back and on the right hand side there was an old cottage, I think the house was built on an old golf course and the cottage was the gate keepers cottage? Some one has mentioned the cottage on Richmond Road but in connection with the Lyndon Pub which is much further down the Richmond Road, so I wonder if it is the same place? I would love anyone who may remember me to get in touch.
Jeanette Smith

Posted Monday, January 12, 2009
Anyone remember the dew drop inn at knowle great soul music?
Andy Gallant

Posted Monday, January 12, 2009
I found this site by accident. its reminded me of my many childhood and early adulthood memories. i grew up in marston green when there was a golf course to ride your bike on and sledging in deep snow,blackberry picking or having a picnic by the stream. the station with stream trains. im sure one day the circus came to town on the train and elephants paraded through the village. riding my bike through blue bell woods (not a house in sight) Waking up on dark, winter mornings to the sound of snow being cleared off the runway of Eldom airport. As i got older, the memories of the mackadown on a saturday night. Working at the cresta club with my friend jennifer and having to walk home back to marston green at 1am with no shoes on because your feet would hurt. 1979- went to work at the old airport, it was like a little family, a happy atmosphere not like the airport today. Does anyone remember the old airport? Or remember me from the old airport?
Ann (Corbett) Wale  - Birmingham

Posted Monday, January 5, 2009
in response to Ann Arkwell and Debra Paul,  I certainly remember your mum Ellen, I think she made all the family wedding cakes for the Browns of Elkstone Close, drop me a line and we can catch up
Ron Brown

Posted Monday, December 22, 2008
Can you tell me whos the kid in the picture for the 1960's?  Its in the comments from Neil also! Looks so much like me as a kid! Name was Susan Bevington and I went to Daylesford Infant school and Chapperfield Junior
Sue Lynch

Posted Monday, December 22, 2008
Attended Tudor Grange 1964-69, lived Damsonwood & Damson Lane 1965-1974.
School mates: John Ingram, Rob Large, Lawrence Brazier, Richard Blewer, Graham Ascott and many more. Now living in Southampton
Tony Knight

Posted Tuesday, November 25, 2008
This is for Denise Allen! We went to school together at St Augustines in Herbert Rd in the 50's and 60's. I have such good memories of those days. Please write back, as i'm no longer living in the UK. I've been in South Africa for the last 25 years and am thinking of coming either to Spain again or going home to Knowle. I used to live at 46 Kenilworth Rd and we used to be the local corner sweet shop, although not on a corner! That was in the 50's and early 60's.My brother, George, sister, Helene and younger brother Tim and i used to go to school at St Augustines in the 60's.The head mistress was a Miss O'Driscoll and latterly a Miss Tree and another teacher was a Miss Copson. Such happy days.That was when there was only max 30 kids to a class!
I went on to Olton Court Convent where Mother Incarnation or Inky as she was also known, was headmistress. It would be wonderful to hear from anyone. As i used to live in Knowle, I have such wonderful memories growing up there. Taking long walks along the canal at the bottom of Kixley Lane and ending up at the old 'Cat in the Window' We would cut across the fields toward home via the old Farrier on Warwick Rd by the Terminus. Later it became Chris's Lawnmower Services where the Farrier was. His daughter, Konstanse was the local Florist who now lives in Spain. On the way home was a bluebell field and wood where we would see Badgers and Rabbits and such like. I also remember the Police Station on Kenilworth Rd with the sweet shop almost next door. and just along to that, toward the church was the lovely old school.
In the churchyard now, are most of our old neighbours. My parents, George & Maggie [my mom was Belgian] and also my 21year old brother, George who died in '71 after a moterbike accident outside Solihull School. Some may remember him as he was the Head Boy previously at Matthew Bolton School.
It would be good to hear from anyone who may remember our family, we were quite well known, either causing havoc in school or by the size of our family-4 children. I also worked in Knowle for many years as a hairdresser at Barbara of London, behind the terminus.
As i became older,i used to frequent The Boot at Lapworth or The White Lion in Hampton in Arden, aaaah, such happy days!
Nicole Rayson [now Fitzsimmons]

Posted Tuesday, November 25, 2008
We lived just in Olton Hollow for many years, mom and dad moved there in 39. Would anyone know the Prosser family who lived in Olton Croft. I know Maurice has died but wonder if his sisters and brother are still around? Most saturdays were spent around the mere with the Prossers or Goodheads who had the bakery in the hollow. I used to spend rainy days with old Mr Woods a cigarette card collector who painted a copy of all his cards into the albums. Wonder if his son is still in Solihull? What a pity that such an activity with an older person would now draw disapproval. By the way thanks to all the people who "adopted" me  at The Olton Cinema so that I could get in to films that required parental supervision, well spent 3d.
Jeremy Hannaford

Posted Monday, November 10, 2008
Buying tropical fish from Shirley Aquatics. Trying to impress girls in the cocktail lounge upstairs at The Mason's Arms. Trad Jazz at The George Hotel with Basil Wainwright and the Midland All-Stars.
Colin Powell

Posted Monday, October 27, 2008
I moved to Canada in the mid fifties, but have fond memories of the Garrett family. Mr Gordon Garett was the Manager of WH Smith and Sons after he moved from Purley.Surrey. Daughters Pat and Margaret, Pat possibly married to a Smith, any clues??
Michael Rowe

Posted Monday, October 6, 2008
I can't believe that i've just tripped over this website and found a name that i remember fondly, vivienne rock. as well as her brother graham. i lived opposite them in newlands road in bentley heath. also the owen boys from 2 doors up from vivienne. we all used to play together in the fields at the back of my parents house and also the river blythe. i went to school at arden high school in knowle. there was a nigel ward who was a good friend and sid britt, we all went to the same school. i moved away with my parents to church hill road solihull, and in my teens formed a group called blend 5. steph griffin played keyboard who also lived in solihull. rob smith played lead guitar, a lad called sparkbrook played drums and keith from shard end was our singer. i played bass. we played a lot at the solihull civic hall which is where my father bill wood worked. we played throughout the midlands with top groups of the late 60's, ie; pink floyd, dave dee, dozy,beeky, mick and titch, lulu, the kinks, and the easybeats from aussie. and many more that i can't remember. I would love to find out if anyone remembers us and may have photos or know any of the whereabouts of Blend 5. great memories, great site
Michael Wood

Posted Tuesday, September 16, 2008
I'm trying to find information about A.D. Wimbush Bakery for my website
http://www.smallheathcircle.com/5.html and I would be very grateful if John Beamish could get in touch me.
Jerry Daly

Posted Thursday, September 4, 2008
Talk about a trip down memory lane! I attended Daylesford Infants and Chapelfield's Junior Last of the Lyndon high school for girls. (It went co-ed the yr I left. )Have fond fond memories of many people who have written here. And many memories of the cinema, hobbs moat, Jubilee and Elmdon Park. I left uk in 1989 and now live in Perth Western Australia. Parents still live in my home in Colesbourne Rd (back of the Ice Rink!) which holds many memories for me! so id love to here from anyone who remembers me. please email love to reminisce with ex boyfriends and my girlfriends.
Susan Lynch nee Bevington

Posted Monday, August 11, 2008
Left Solihull in 1971 travelled the world working on P&O ships, always knew I was on the right train coming home with the brummie accents, Solihull memories to me was the ice rink on Sat night, getting sloshed in the bar underage then trying to skate, snogging Carline Carmichael for hours in the park behind the swimming pool, the Lode Heath School Gym change room showers where they shut one side and let the girls in then vice versa, my mate Paul Reeves parents owned an off licence in Damson Lane where we pinched bottles of liquer then spun each other on the park roundabout to see who would throw up first, then there was the Ship inn where I would be paid by the local bikers to mind their bikes, the Olton 69 I think. Now married with kids living in Australia, great life but can't ever replace valuable memories of Solihull, will take my kids there one day soon.
Karl Symonds

Posted Monday, August 4, 2008
Fond memories of Hatchford Brook Youth Club, Sheldon Cinema and Ice Rink and the Harvester pub.  Frequented Solihull Ice Rink many a time with my best friend Annette Mackenzie who dated Pete Collier for years.  Remember the Risky Disco.  My brother Dave Thomas was part of the Damadoes DJ group at Hatchford Brook Youth Club in the late sixties early 70s.  Memories of lots of people from that time, Paul Smith, Alan Smith, Barrie Smith, Dave Parkes, John Stubbington, Fubble, Max & Mandy (now Holdsworth, Joe Lucy, Tony Brown and many others (I often wonder where life has taken them all).  Remember the Hatchford Brook netball and football teams at that time.  Just reading this site and being able to relate to people's nostalgia is really uplifting.
Gill Thomas

Posted Monday, August 4, 2008
I think the bar in front of elmdon airport was the bucca'neer. A sort of ship wreck theme.
Rick Spicer

Posted Wednesday, July 30, 2008
I too am one who came across this site by accident.I was born in Brook House which was opposite the main Solihull hospital. Until I was 5 we lived on the Stratford Road, Shirley, above a shop, opposite the Saracens Head. We then moved to a new council house, 151 Hobs Moat Road about 1953, it was like being in the country! Colesbourne Road was only just being built, and the stream that runs under the ice rink was still exposed. When I was older we used to wander for miles, in safety. I'm sure if anyone dodgy had tried anything with us, we would have seen them off, as we were generally armed to the teeth! Usually we had a 4" sheath knife strapped on, the occasional air pistol, and always the trusty catapult. Do you know though, no-one EVER got hurt. Hobs Moat Woods were our favourite, bike racing mainly but generally just messing about. Elmdon Park in winter for sledging, and plane spotting, we loved to see a Viscount taking off, and thought what a wonderful noise they made, compared to the old Dakotas. Saturday matinee at the Sheldon with threepence to get in and threepence to spend, frozen Jubbly anyone? I also remember the Catholic church which stood to the left of the Olton Hall pub, excellent for scrumping apples round the back as I recall, also camping in the field where the ice rink now stands, my mate John Burnell provided the wind-up gramophone for our evenings entertainment, which was fine until his pet mouse got inside it, and we had to smash it up to get him out. I went to Ulverley infants and junior school and can remember my teacher Miss Laughton, and the headmaster was Mr. Daniels another teacher was Mr. Garner, who I was, quite frankly terrified of! luckily he never taught me but I think my goody two shoes sister Judy was in his class, she went on to be head girl, and went to Tudor Grange. Me? Lyndon of course, although I was only there for about 6 months as I was headhunted by Eton as I was a child genius. OK I lied, in 1960 my mom announced that she was dragging me kicking and screaming off to New Zealand. I came back to England in 1965, for a 3 month holiday, and have been here ever since, although my wife of 38 years is taking me back on a 4 week holiday for my 60th.
Peter Tomkinson

Posted Thursday, July 17, 2008
Does anyone remember Butch Brown who went to Lyndon High School from 1958 to 1962 I now live in Leeds in Yorkshire but would like to hear from any one who remembers me
Paul Brown

Posted Friday, July 11, 2008
Fascinating stuff! My sister Melanie and I attended Shirley High School, Bills Lane in the early 60's. We lived on Jacey Road and walked along the Stratford Road every afternoon. Later did some of my courting at Shirley Odeon. Wonderful teachers at this tiny school- especially Mrs Corfield who coached me and got me through the 11+. Spent 7 happy years at Harold Cartwright Girls' Grammar School (67-74). Special friends - Kate Halford, Vicky, Susan Middleton, Helen Stirrup, Wendy. My most memorable teacher - Chris Jefferson who inspired me to finally go into teaching myself in my 30's.  I now teach in Izmir, Turkey. Who remembers the head Mrs Willis?  We were not allowed to 'fraternise' with the Harold Malley boys next to us on the campus. I thought boys were a being from another planet and was terribly shy!  We swam at Tudor Grange and I remember the strict manager of the Solihull cinema refusing to let me in to see A Clockwork Orange a few weeks before my 18th birthday! Most of my drinking was done at the Fleur De Lys pub in Lowsonford. I also went to the Barn or the Marsh Rugby club for dancing. What happened to Adrian Bullock? (first boyfriend) and my sister would love to know what happened to Martin Roberts and his lovely family.
Madeleine Vincent (nee Ashton)

Posted Tuesday, June 10, 2008
My memories both happy and sad of Cropwood Open Air school from 1963 - 1968. Delia Harwood, Colleen, Susan Meddings are girls I remember very well, Susan Meddings and I ran away to Lickey Hills and were escorted back by police.  We had a public beating by Miss Urquhart.
If anyone remembers me I'd love to hear from you.  Pam Whitehouse (now Fleming)
Pamela Whitehouse

Posted Saturday, June 7, 2008
I lived with my mum and dad and sister, Debra and Carol, in Daylesford Road. I have lots of memories about school, friends etc. I married Michael Knight (Micky) to his friends, and attended Lyndon School. Mum and Dad sadly passed away a few years ago. Id love to hear from anyone who remembers us....
Ann Arkwell

Posted Monday, May 5, 2008
Was introduced to this site by Fred Cave ex-Lyndon High and must say how great it is to reminisce. My grand-parents lived at no.1,Richmond Road, Olton [right next to railway bridge] for many years, lads from all over used to come train-spotting as the house was extremely close to the main 'up' line. Pennies on the track before the 6pm daily 'King' express to Paddington came ensured we had them flattened.!! My cousins Ted& Darrell also joined me there. Living in Brackleys Way I used to walk to Olton daily, and sometimes staying all the week with my Nan at no;1. The 'cottage' at the entrance to the 'old' Richmond Road was occupied by my cousin Anne Coombes's Grand-mother for years. It's still there and can remember the big gate posts there, leading onto a dirt - track down towards the Lyndon pub, lined each side by the tallest conker trees ever, and of course an abundance of conkers too!. Looking across eastwards from there you could actually see the old airport. I attended Chapel fields school, then to Ulverley and to Lyndon High. Most boys remember Mr.Hankinson taking geography and telling all his WW2 stories. I am told that 'Hank' is still alive, he lived in Marston Green and played cricket for the local club. He's somewhere out in Herefordshire now, but of course must be 'knocking on' a bit!
Reading comments I see so many about 'The man on the Trike'....Bill Hopkins was his name, his brothers, Harry and Malcolm, they lived in Rowlands Crescent. Not sure what happened to Harry, but I worked with Malcolm at Railhead Services, Birmingham for a good while and became close friends of his and his late wife Jenny, who sadly died around 12 years ago. Lost contact with Malcolm when he won the lottery!!!!he was living in Chasetown somewhere then, and worked for Bowmur's Container Handling, eventually owning a taxi company I understand. Bill sadly passed away some years ago but his obituary was announced. now living in Coleshill but still in touch with many 'locals' in and around the Solihull, Sheldon and Olton areas, will now view this site regularly and hope to hear from 'missing mates'.
Anyone know what happened to Arthur Pincham, ex. Brackleys Way / Moordown Avenue?.
Bob Smith

Posted Monday,  April 28, 2008
My two sisters and my brother used to live in the prefab opposite the Highwood Pub. We all went to Ulverely School. We were the first ones to move to the old Gun site in Arlescote. I was 7 years old then. We had a lot of memories around that area and also at the Ice Rink. With Walter Allen running it. Megan Davies from the Apple Jacks used to take Sunday School with Gerry Freeman and Don Gould was in  my brothers' class all at Lyndon High School. We gave the school a Barn Owl from my Grandads. I moved to Birmingham when I met my husband. We still go Ice skating on occasions and my grandchildren go now also.  We also take them to Elmdon Park for a game of football. I miss that area so much. We used to have all the bikers around for a coffee many years ago. Mom used to make the cakes for them all. Very happy memories of the past we all have.
I went to Solihull Ice Rink last September and yes! it has changed a lot by there. The entrance is now by the side of the car park and also by the garage. The old assembly rooms is now a huge Gym. The pub and old peoples home is still there and also on the front of the Ice Rink are now some restaurants. We also used to go to the Olton Hall as it was then and we used to go into Mrs Fords land at the back where the lake was and also used to have dens at the side of the footpath by the side of the Rover towards Elmdon park. My brother used to go to houses at the top of Elmdon park to race his cars on a small track. He still has it so I have been told.
Barbara (Babs) Wells

Posted Monday,  March 31, 2008
What a trawl down memory lane! Bill was the man on the bike. I lived in Hobs Moat with my 3 brothers, Pete, Steve and Philip. My parents owned the TV shop. I was friends with Bonnie Ray who's mum owned the toyshop. It was not only the boys who diced with death cycling down the steep moat! I attended the youth club in Elmdon and belonged to the Moat Players.
I used to DJ at the ice rink and do remember Raymond Froggatt. I spent many a happy hour at the Boggerry and saw  Jasper Carrott and Roy Wood
I left Greswold (NO 'E') for a final year at Chapel fields with my Weatherburn as Head and spending a wonderful year with Mrs Smith. I then went to Harold Cartwright; Mr Jefferson was my first form teacher. Jill Smith, Pam Bagnall and Lorraine Stilling were my friends. Nights were spent at Byrons wine bar and Scandals, The Barn and Squires in Balsall Common. It all seems so long ago. I still live and work in Solihull and would be delighted to hear from you.
Helen Perkins (Nee Thatcher)

Posted Friday, June 6, 2008
Re: Helen Perkins,
My mum, Ellen Arkwell, worked in your parents' record shop for quite a few tears. I still remember buying ex-chart singles at a cut down price (still have many now)!
I was also at Daylesford Infants (remember the "huge" hill at the back!), then Chapelfields (I'm old enough to just about remember Mr Neville, but also have fond memories of Mrs Glover and Mr Bailey - although his was tarnished but subsequent reporting). I then went on to Harold Cartwright - purple uniform! Still live in Solihull but am a Deputy head in Handsworth these days. Anyone who remembers, get in touch!!
Debra Paul (nee Arkwell)

Posted Monday,  March 31, 2008
Great site, but I see no mention of Sutton Lodge, the art school, where I spent a blissful year (1965 -1966) after the rigours of A levels at Solihull School. Steve Blundell, Phil Evans, Sue Goble, Carol Kimberley, Debbie Shaw, and Stephanie Reed all unbidden spring to mind, as does the extraordinary liberal studies tutor, Dr Jackson.
Nigel Tattersfield

Posted Monday,  March 31, 2008
Great website, brought back a lot of memories.
We moved from Marshall Lake Road Shirley (next to the BSA Rifle Factory) in the mid 1950s to Kingscote Road Dorridge to what was then a brand new housing estate. School was Dorridge Junior School then after failing the 11+ it was Lode Heath School for 12/18 months while we waited for Arden High School Knowle to open.  Great memories of train spotting at Dorridge, remember the Pullman train crash but have fonder memories of the steam trains that frequented the GWR Birmingham-Paddington line.  The Pines Express would thunder through each day always pulled by a King class locomotive, great memories of riding on the footplates of the steam trains which turned round at Dorridge, we would ride up to the points and back again, often taking on water at platform 4.
We would cycle along side the quarry up to the level crossing at Bentley Heath putting pennies onto the track for the train to run over thinking in vain we would find them afterwards.  We would spend many happy moments on the bridge next to the Dorridge scout hut and if very lucky be invited up into the signal box at the end of the platform.  The head porters name if i remember correctly was Delaney, he would invite you in for a cup of tea in their room on platform one if you hung around enough.  Sundays were good you could get a free read of the Sunday papers which were always left out on a huge table in the booking hall, customers would leave the money on the unmanned table...such honesty.
Great excitement in the mid 60s when they started to test the huge Intercity diesels on the Snow Hill-Paddington route, even bigger excitement when they were put on the Dorridge route for crew training ,only managed to ride in the cab once whilst it did its turn round. Little did we realise we would regret the  arrival of these monsters which would replace the steam trains. Tyesley (GWR )Wolverhampton (LMS)& Saltley (LMS) engine sheds were favourite haunts and easy to access,but the GWR Wolverhampton engine shed was very difficult to get into.. only managed it once without being caught.
The pub opposite Dorridge station had a hatch ,for off licence sales ,it was great place to return bottles which had 3d (old pence) deposit on them, the shops in Station Road had all you needed ,the butcher would hang the carcasses in the shop doorway and proceed to saw his way through them, we would gaze in the iron mongers part toy shop window next to the railway bridge at the latest Dinkey models hoping they would still be there at Christmas.
Saturday mornings were spent at the Odeon in Shirley (had to walk from Solihull past Sharman Cross School mother wouldn't give me the busfare) afternoons were spent at Solihull Library you could borrow 1 fiction & 2 non fiction books in those days. Great memories of Tudor Grange Park with the lake and the stream which we spent many hours trying to dam.  Long hot Sundays were spent at the Lido in Knowle, long gone now i assume.  Leaving School in the 60s with no exams meant factory or shop work,i ended up working in the Midland Educational shop in the then modern run of shops at the end of the High Street, many years before Mell Square was built.......a few years there the we moved to Henley In Arden but that's another story!!
Martin Uzzell

Posted Wednesday, March 19, 2008
What a treat have just read all the memories and can relate to all. nice to see my brother ron (in oz) commenting. i lived there too for long time. ice rink cinema, all familiar. sandra blackmore, wally savin. hi there. sandra i have great memories going around with you and jimmy bennett and colin chapman who i later married, also les bygraves. what good times.
Sharon Keough (Brown)

Posted Monday, January 21, 2008
A friend of mine is looking for any information on the Lido at Knowle - all help much appreciated, thanks.
Roger Casstles

Posted Monday, January 14, 2008
Further to Keith Grays posting about the DOUBLE L CLUB which used Arden Hall in Castle Bromwich, I believe the organisers were Don Parr and Johnny Ring, both who are still with us and Don went on to be the last Manager at the Solihull Cinema before it closed down, subsequently he has, like myself, built a small cinema in his back garden and still, like myself, shows films to invited audiences on a regular basis.
Chris Bryan, former employee at the Sheldon Cinema and former Manager of the Warwick Cinema Acocks green.

Posted Thursday, November 1, 2007
I can confirm John's description of the Western Queen crash - it was a Snow Hill to Paddington train. I was on the train and still have a press cutting from the following day's paper. I remember being very disappointed at Snow Hill when I saw that the Blue Pullman had been replaced with Pullman coaches. I'd been on the Blue Pullman before and was excited at doing so again. Ironically, we were on the first coach behind the engine, so I can only wonder what would have happened had it been the normal Blue Pullman that day.
Colin

Posted Monday, September 10, 2007
I accept that age plays tricks with one's memory, but my memory of the 1963 train crash at Dorridge was somewhat different in detail to James Knibb's. My recollection was that the train, which was replacing the usual "Blue Pullman" thank god, as the BP had passengers in the Engine part of the train. It was travelling South towards London and hit a train loade3d with cars that had be allowed out onto the Platform 1 line, from the car park, where MAT Transport used as their base before moving to the proper goods yard in Poplar Road. The train braked and whether as a result of the braking or due to hitting the goods train, derailed slightly and hit the brick pedestrian bridge that led to the Scout Field. Three people were killed and a chef scalded. I remember it as I was working mornings at the Barn Motel and had just returned home. Another event of the time was the great train robbery, and I remember the police coming to the Barn in response to a "sighting" of Roy John James, a gang member. He was not there but it livened up the day.
John Warnert

Posted Monday, July 30, 2007
Well...what a treasure trove of memories!  I was born in Drury lane in 1950 into the Bragg family.. well known in Solihull as ..Bakers/Builders/Butchers/Funeral directors et al. My Dad, Bert, worked in the car trade, Rover/Hillman/Jaguar etc.
Our house in Drury Lane would be considered as a "charming period residence" now! It had stoned flagged floors.. an outside toilet and matching "coal hole" reached via the back yard. I went to the National Trust's back to backs in Brum and there was little difference between them and no 42 Drury Lane!
We lived three doors away from Proctor and Lavenders who specialised in bricks and mosaics...there were always plenty of brightly coloured mosaic tiles to collect. Next door to us lived the Sweep Mr Peter Matthews...I loved it when he came to sweep our chimney and I had to stand on the yard to shout when the brush appeared. He was always in great demand for weddings. I remember when we had a chimney fire one Sunday lunch time...most exciting as the sparks flew out of the chimney, and I was sent to get my Dad from the Royal Oak pub at the top of the road.
Our homes were knocked down to make Mell Square...at the time we were happy...I was only 11 and looking forward to a new home on Lode Lane with hot water, a bath and, best of all, an indoor loo...no more crossing the yard in all weathers to the spider infested toilet.
Now I realise that we lost a community, some interesting houses...particularly those in Mill Lane (my cousin lived in a Medieval Hall House for sure) and the Congregational Church at the bottom of Drury lane.
At least we were moved, mostly on mass, up to the Bridge Estate on Lode Lane.
I went to St Alphege..1954/1961. Great memories of the garden parties in the Rectory (the Rector being Harry Hartley)...the outside toilets at the school.. the "apparatus" that you shouldn't climb on. Memorable  teachers like Miss Lawley (who made me memorise "Hiawatha",) Mrs Thompson ( in whose class you always had to carve an igloo out of a solid block of salt!) Miss Keane (who made me memorise "The Pied Piper of Hamlin" )and Miss Hufton who didn't make me memorise anything but taught me to knit!
Living in Drury Lane was excellent as a child. We played out all of the time.. all of the usual childish games.. but we never went into the house at the bottom of the lane (Touchwood Hall?) although it was never inhabited as I can remember.
On hot days we would pack up and go to the Lido in the park and spend all day there...it was just the best place to go although the wooden changing rooms were a bit off putting!
I then went at 11 to Harold Cartwright on Blossomfield Road in the first year that it opened. My Mum moaned at having to go to Five Ways in town  to buy the very expensive purple uniform...it would have been much cheaper to have gone to Lode Heath! ( A brilliant school that I ended up teaching at for fifteen years).
Teenage years were spent at the Civic Hall dances...wonderful, the ice rink, the coffee shop at the swimming pool and going up town.
My mum worked at George Masons in the high street ...does anyone else remember "Cuckoo in the Window" which took place once a year when shops put an alien object in their window displays which you had to search for in order to win a prize??
I'm rambling here...this should be enough to be getting on with. Although I no longer live in Solihull I still have family connections and many fond memories.
Eileen Ord nee Bragg

Posted Monday, July 30, 2007
Who remembers the night life in and around the Solihull area during the sixtees/seventees? I remember the rotating dance floor at the Pistol Knight Bar (Ex Barn restaurant) on the Stratford Road. Further down on the left we use to go to "Cinders" on a Thursday night. Saturday night often used to be the Cavendish club in Yardley. Does anyone remember the Ship (Wreck of the Hispaniola) at the back of the Masons Arms and the Malt Shovel (Later became the Snooty Fox). Someone asked about the night club in solihull that served chicken and chips. Was it the Malvern Club? I remember it more for its bangers and instant mash. Happy days
Dave

Posted Monday, July 16, 2007
Richard Pearce's search for me on Solihull in the 60's July 22nd 2005 became successful 18 months later when I was told of his search by my brother. Now some 45 years after I last went rockpool fishing with him at aged 11 on St.Mary's, Isles of Scilly, we are E mail friends. He is a very well known artist on Bryher one of the smaller islands. I live in Calgary,Alberta, Canada since 1975.I would like to trace Roger Benny who lived next door to us at 266 Widney Lane, Solihull 1957 to 1962.Ray Benny his father told me when I visited in 1983 that he went to Alaska and became a fisherman! He had a sister named Ann who had a horse called Tangy. That was such a fun house and neighbourhood to grow up in with lots of children to play with. Keep up this very interesting web site. (I remember the Applejacks) My mother had a boutique in Mill Lane Solihull called Patricia Neilson's Casuals. We moved to 26 Ashleigh Road, Solihull in 1962-65.
Stephen Fox

Posted Monday, June 25, 2007
I was born in 1955 and lived in Hazleoak Road and Burman Road (where I attended school) in Shirley. We moved to Widney Lane when I was 9 or 10, I remember playing in Bills Woods, Wrensons and Masons shops and Wizs the ice creams with toffee in the centre. We went to Saturday morning pictures at the Odeon and later on went to the Rendezous cafe on the Stratford Road. I went to Harold Cartwright school and went swimming at Tudor Grange, We went under age to Solihull Civic Hall to listen to rock bands and at the age of 14 worked in Woolworths on the Stratford Road also underage! Your memories give me shivers down my spine as both my parents have passed away and it brings back vivid memories of them
Elaine Clowes (Langford)

Posted Saturday, May 19, 2007
I remember the train crash at Dorridge in 1963 . the train was the western queen ; d1040 . It was travelling towards Birmingham as an express and the points had not been changed from an earlier goods train that was moved and sat at platform three . the result was carnage with the three men in the cab dying including one who leapt out as the collision occurred and died in Bob Barnetts arms . it was a Friday and i remember it well as my brother Jonathan and I saw the train being towed away in the evening as we left choir practice at St Phillips church . in November that year on another Friday we returned home from choir practice to find my father subdued watching our first television and my mother in tears . it was the day of JFK's assassination .
James Knibb

Posted Wednesday, May 9, 2007
In reply to Susan Whites posting of January 9th.
I spent my childhood in Elms Close which was on Uncle Johnny's' ice cream round. The sound of the jingle from his van would send my siblings and I into fits of excitement at the thought of being able to spend a few pence on a small selection of items from what seemed to me to be a never ending cavern of goodies. Just to say a great big thank you to your father for adding to my wonderful childhood and always having a smile and a joke with us over so many years
Stuart Mason

Posted Monday, April 30, 2007
I was born in 1955 in a newly built house on the Meadway. Our house backed on to Lea Village School which we frequently jumped the fence and used the playground for all kinds of games including racing our home made Go-carts. My friends and I would meet at the school gates in the evening and arrange elaborate practical jokes to play on unsuspecting passers-by. One I remember clearly, I placed a large speaker cone in the privet of our front garden this was connected to an old valve amplifier I had built. My younger brother would imitate a baby crying, perfectly. Within 10 mins we had attracted several members of the public. When one pushed his hand in to the privet we screamed down the microphone, it was a sight to behold. I am sure the village shop keepers would remember us if not for the stink bombs we purchased and immediately gave them back :-)
Alas, I now live in Australia but have very fond memories of my youth in Lea Village.
Peter Lee

Posted Tuesday, March 20, 2007
I heard that Bill died about two years ago. He used to ride round the Yew tree too. He had a few dogs following him and in a basket on the bike. Me and my sisters used to go to the Brueton Park lido in school holidays, and Tudor Grange park. I remember when the bus fares were two pence for a week. I loved galaxy counters chocolates, a whole packet with an orange giraffe on. Playing on my space hopper, then getting on my chopper to pick up my Whizzer and Chips mag. The Odeon in Shirley next to the Indian restaurant.  Drinking in the captains locker when i was older was good.
Hayley

Posted Monday, February 12, 2007
Just found this site whilst searching for Sheldon Cinema. I still can't believe it was allowed to be demolished. I was born in Colesbourne Road in 1958. I'd forgotten all about the man on the three-wheeler bike! Went to Daylesford Infants, Chaplefields Junior and Lyndon and in those days the schools didn't close when it snowed. I remember the sweet shop opposite Daylesford Infants school (was it called Drews?) It had a Bazooka Joe bubble gum machine on the wall outside. At Chaplefields we had the air-raid shelter from the 2nd world war still in the middle of the playground. We always thought that there were the skeletons of dead German soldiers in there. Don't ask me why. I seem to remember that you could also see the control tower of the old Birmingham Airport from the top playing field. Mr Weatherburn was the headmaster and someone had to walk around the playground ringing the breaktime bell. Was it Mr Cole who organised the football team? I Remember Mrs Evans as my teacher for the last 2 years. Can't remember the first 2 years - possibly a Miss Whitehead?
Guy Bickley

Posted Monday, February 5, 2007
The man on the bike  was Bill he used to live in Rowlands cresent and his brother was clever and went to Solihull School I'm looking for the lady who opened the baths in 1965
Heather Edgington

Posted  Thursday, February 1, 2007
Born in Barn Lane 1955 just down from the Lyndon pub, Chris (my elder brother) and I would while the hours away fishing for stickle backs in the brook, no longer there. Went to Daylesford infants and Chaplefilds for two years, moved to eden road and went to Hatchford remember Mr Clark ,Mr Rees, great at art. Remember Duncan Lee, Tim Smith ,Susan Moody, still see John Sutherns during the cricket season. Visits to the gift shop at hatchford brook ,only just changed in a moblie phone shop, must have been a sweet shop for 50 years mostly run by Mr & Mrs Rippen. Still live close to Solihull Married to Micheal Coombes for 31 years with two grownup children. The guy with the three wheeler bike turned up at our wedding and supervised the car parking!
Jayne Coombes (Gill)

Posted  Thursday, February 1, 2007
In the early 60's I lived in Neville Road Shirley with my Mum, Dad and younger sister, Sue.  I remember the grocery van coming round the road and I think there might have been a fish and chip van too.  Unfortunately we moved away when I was still only 4 but I still have a big soft spot for the area and have been a "bluenose" for as long as I can remember.
Dawn

Posted Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Solihull, Bentley Heath, Dorridge, Hockley Heath, Knowle, Olton, Acocks Green, Shirley etc., etc., I remember them all with fondness, especially as a teenager in the 60s. I moved to 22 Newlands Road, Bentley Heath, with Mum (Olive) Dad (Dennis) Brother (Graham) when I was eighteen months old. I went to Bentley Heath Infants school, Dorridge school and Arden High in Knowle. Is there anyone out there who remembers Linda Challinor, Susan Edwards, Susan Palmer, Rosemary Ward, Lesley Lincoln, the Davies triplets, John, Richard & Philip and too many others to type out.
I spent a lot of time at the riding school down conker lane, no longer there, just hundreds of houses. I loved swinging on the old gate across Bentley Heath railway crossing, playing at Pooh sticks on the river Blythe. Cycling all the way to Links Drive near the Maypole where my Aunt still lives today.
I remember when Solihull was just a small town and if I missed the bus from there to Bentley Heath at 10.10pm I had to walk, what wonderful memories and I'm enjoying reading through all yours. Regards to you all from Pennsylvania, U.S.A.......
Vivienne Rock (now Evans)

Posted Tuesday, January 9, 2007
I lived in Mayswood Road Number 57 from the age of 2. I have very fond memories of this time. The fields at the back of the Rover Track, building dens and playing track the arrow on warm Summer evenings. The Ice Rink and the Saturday film show at the Sheldon Picture House. I also remember the Chap on the three wheeler bike, he often used to be in library at Hobs Moat. Fond memories of a childhood in Mayswood Road, our bonfires for Guy Fawkes, Rollerskating, Sledging in Elmdon Park. Also the Ash path at the back of Olton Hall, leading to Elmdon Park, we also heard of the man with the gun who would shoot you if he found you if the grounds of Olton Hall. I went to Valley Infants, Hatchford Brook Junior and Lyndon High for Girls. Does anyone remember Mr Lane the headmaster of Hatchfordbrook and Miss Osbourne a brilliant teacher of English and Lyndon High. My Dad was Uncle Johnny the Ice Cream Man, I believe that someone mentioned his name on this site. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers me. Happy Happy Days!
Susan White (Nee Childs)

Posted Monday, January 1, 2007
May I wish all the subscribers to this site a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year
Patricia Morley
 

Now it's your turn?
What are your fondest memories of childhood? Some will be personal to you but others will be shared by many of us.

WANTED copyright free pictures of Solihull in the 60's
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Solihull's Applejacks became big stars when 'Tell Me When' hit the charts in 1964. Visit Garry Knox's page and find out

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A Ghost Story from Catherine de Barnes. Read Dave Cuby's strange encounter