大象传媒

This story has been added to The People's War Website by CSV Volunteer, Jessica, on behalf of the author, Hilary Wright, who understands the site's terma and conditions.

This story has been passed on to me by my Mum, Phyllis, who is now 93. My Dad, Harold died aged 60 in 1970. Mum was a full-time housewife and mother to my brother Bryan aged 5 years at the time.

During the war, the bombing had been relentless. From our house they could hear the bombs, see the planes and the glow of the fires in Plymouth beyond Rame Head.

Their bedroom was in the front of the house - very large bay window, overlooking Looe Bay. Harold said "whatever happens we're not going to the air raid shelter. Exhausted they went to bed, only to be woken by a massive explosion. Harold jumped right out of bed, "what the hell was that" he shouted. The Germans had bombed Looe Island (known as St. George's Island) claiming they had sunk the H.M.S. St. George. The blast damaged many windows in the area, mainly at Hannafore, but also cracked some of ours.

Mum, Dad and my brother all survived the war. I was born in 1947 and still live in the same lovely home, with my husband, we care for my Mum, the storyteller.

Dad continued to be a retained fireman, completing his service at the age of 55 when required to "retire". enjoying many years as Station Officer at Looe. I have many more amusing stories, many of which have been passed on to my by his colleagues.

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