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This story was submitted to the People’s War site by Maggie Smith from WM CSV Action Desk on behalf of Marjorie Stephen and has been added to the site with her permission. Marjorie Stephen fully understands the sites terms and conditions.

Barnstaple Pannier Market (covered) continued to be a lively social occasion on Friday mornings during the War — particularly in the summer. My principal memories of it were of poultry (un-rationed) laid out on the lids of the huge hampers (maunds) which, covered with white cloths acted as little display counters — pots of great bunches of parsley, and enormous mixing bowls of clotted cream. The farmers’ wives were all very soberly clad with great white aprons over their dark skirts. In July the scent of sweet peas was glorious and the sight of bunches and bunches of gladioli was magnificent. One would see horses drawing wagons with tows of poles stretched from side to side on which were hung a hundred or more rabbits, which made a good supplement to the protein diet. This market soon lost its unique character after the War.

It was a simple, happy life much worthwhile activity. Everyone had a purpose, there was no hooliganism, and after the dark days of 1941-42 the atmosphere of hope sustained us all. And eating was not a hobby.

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