大象传媒

Alf Kemp was born in Tunbridge Wells in 1927. Alf remembers havng lots of days off from school which was held in many different venues the school day never lasted for more than half a day. In the school shelter there were no lights and lessons took place by candle light. Alf remembers the day war was declared - sirens went off and Alf cried as he knew that war was a dreadful thing. From 1939 until 1941 (when he left) Alf attended school on a half day basis.

As Alf was born with some physical handicaps when he left school in 1941 he was not able to join the forces. He soon settled in at the local dairy and delivered the milk from a wheelbarrow. Alf clearly remembers that milk was subject to severe rationing and because of this was available in 1/2 pint bottles. Because of the curfew Alf could not start deliveries until 6.45 am. Alf recalls the first time that he saw a doodlebug - he did not realize that it was a bomb until he saw it hit the earth. On some mornings the bomb damage was quite considerable and meant many detours on his morning round.

Alf also recalls anti-aircraft guns being installed at Tonbridge School and that two men from the Royal Fusillers were barracked at his home.

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