大象传媒

Interviewee: noreen Evans

Where were you at the time and what happened
when you realised what was happening?
I was just wandering in the streets when i heard the sirens go off. I was pretty startled at first as I didn't know what was going on, but once I realised what was actually happening, I ran to somewhere safe.

How did people know where you were?
Well, in those days, you could go anywhere. I think it was mainly because there was hardly any crime- your parents just knew you were alright.

What sort of war/safety objects did you use?
If the siren went off, you'd run to an 'Anderson shelter' which was situated practically anywhere people would go. we had one in our garden as well as at school. There was also big public shelters in case you couldn't reach your own or if you happened to be by one at the time. However if you didn't own an anderson Shelter, alot of people used their cupboard under the stairs. We also had 'Gas Masks' which were kept in a brown box and were carried with some white string. We had to use 'blackout curtains' too!

Were any of your relatives in the war?
Yes, My father was in the war police, one uncle was in the DLI, one uncle was in the air force and my Granda was the only scuba diver in sunderland. He used to make sure nothing could get through the piers which was very important as they were a main target because the ships used to get bombed to stop food and other things going to and fro. And his diving suit is in the museum!

What did you do in your spare time?
I mainly went to church or did missionary work.

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