大象传媒

One particular memory of VE Day I recollect very well is that of a group of grubby urchins living in or around the Wilbert Lane/George Street area of Beverley dancing delightedly round a bonfire they had built in the centre of George Street. We would be between perhaps 7 and 12 years old and aware only, that the war we had lived through for most if not all of our young lives was over. Adults after all were celebrating this great event!

As the tarmac melted and the bonfire blazed, no one remonstrated or objected to our activities until that is, two tall figures in trilby hats halted on Wilbert Grove and viewed the scene with serious faces. The revelry ceased because we knew full well that one of these men was Detective Jack Drew and of course a policeman.

A finger beckoned towards the eldest of our gang, Basil (Bas) Robinson and whilst the rest of us looked on, ready to run, `Bas` we were convinced, was going to his doom. One of the tall figures looking down on a trembling `Bas`, put his hand in his pocket and out came a handful of fireworks!

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