大象传媒

Rose, about 20, was a Ward Orderly in All Saints Convalescent Hospital, Eastbourne.

The Convalescent Hospital had been taken over by the government as a war emergency hospital for civilian casualties. Canadian soldiers were billeted near by and they frequently came over and entertained the staff by singing songs and telling jokes.

I remember one Christmas they sent over 3 big hampers of food that had come from Canada. I don鈥檛 remember exactly what was in them but I do remember what a thrill it was. The soldiers were very friendly, especially with the Head Sister who was a tower of strength to us all.

Whenever we went out of the hospital we had to go out, and back in through the same door, the side door on to the street not the door that led on to the sea front. The whole of the sea front from end to end was a 'no-go-area' and the beach was covered in barbed wire. We had to remember to take our gas masks with us and a list of air-raid shelters. One day I went out to buy a pair of shoes and the air-raid sounded. Being on the coast Eastbourne had an Emergency air-raid siren which indicated enemy aircraft overhead. On hearing this I had to quickly get my shoes back on and run but as I ran out of the shop my eyes started to sting and stream. I couldn鈥檛 get my gas mask on quick enough. It was in a box hung over my shoulder and really awkward to get on. Thank heavens for all the practice I鈥檇 had!

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