大象传媒

This story was submitted to the People鈥檚 War site by a volunteer from Radio Northampton Action Desk on behalf of Winifred Mary Smith and has been added to the site with her permission. Winifred Mary Smith fully understands the site鈥檚 terms and conditions.

When the Second World War broke out, I joined the A.R.P. (Air Raid Precautions) in the Ambulance Service. When the air raid siren sounded we had to meet in the local Church Hall and gather our uniform and equipment. We were issued with our own tin hat with our individual initials painted in large letters on the front. My maiden surname, (I was still single then) was Cook. O why did my parents christen me Winifred? There I was with W.C. on my head for all to see. The first time I went to the choir practice following a raid wearing my helmet it was the cause of great amusement to the members and much embarrassment to me!

Later I went to work in the Salvation Army Forces Canteens which were known as The Red Shield Services. My first appointment was at Warminster in the R.E.M.E. camp. We supplied the lads with tea, coffee, sandwiches etc, and huge slices of bread pudding 鈥渏ust like Mother used to make鈥�. Some time later the American Forces took over the camp and I was transferred to Bath. Here we were kept exceptionally busy because close by were the sleeping quarters where lads who could not get home on leave, or maybe missed their train because of their duties, were able to stay. We were responsible for the up-keep of these as well as helping in the canteen.

Another duty we used to carry out was to take the mobile canteen to the railway station because the soldiers traveling on the trains were not allowed to leave them. We would travel along the platforms with our trolleys supplying tea and sandwiches etc. Quite often this was either in the middle of the night or very early morning. I was in Bath for quite a long time and often wondered how many of those whom I was able to help made it through the war. I realise many would not, but feel proud that I was able to help and bring at least a little comfort to them.

Some time later I moved on again and was appointed to Derby. This was better for me because I was able to get home for a long weekend occasionally. There were six of us working two canteens, one at Osmanton and one at Normanton Barracks. This was not quite so busy or hectic as the others I had been at. I really enjoyed those years and had many happy times and met so many lovely people. I was proud to be able to help in this way in the War Effort. I met very many lovely lads as I worked for them and they helped me as much as I helped them.

Of course there were sad times during those days, but amongst the sad memories there are very many happy ones too. Life has moved on and times have changed but I will never forget those days of World War 2.

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