The Road to Worthing Pier
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"It didn't matter what we did ... I liked it all." Alison's fond holiday memories of her grandparents and the road to Worthing Pier.
Transcript
"My grandparents and I were very close. Even though I used to visit them every Sunday, I remember being really excited about spending a whole day with them during the summer holidays.
My Dad would drive me from our house in Worthing to their house in the next town and I would spend a magical day with Nan and Granddad. In my eyes they were perfect, from their 60 year marriage to their quaint pebble dash bungalow.
It didn't matter what we did, whether it was playing in the garden or a trip to the park, I liked it all. But what I enjoyed doing most was going to the seaside.
Ironically, our day trip would start with a bus ride back to Worthing. Both my parents had a car, so for me a bus ride was really exciting.
We'd get off by Worthing pier and I'd be treated to an ice cream whilst we walked along the pier to the amusement arcade. I remember being fascinated that I could see the sea beneath my feet through the slats on the pier.
In the arcade my Nan would produce a big bag of coppers from her shopping bag and I would spend many happy hours watching the mechanical monkey band sing and dance and playing on the slot machines. I can still remember the metallic smell that was left on my hands after handling the coins.
Eventually it would be time to go, but the adventure wasn't over yet - there was still the bus ride home!
These memories are very special to me. As their only grandchild I was very dear to my grandparents, but I cherished them just as much as they cherished me."
An interview with the author
Please tell us a little about yourself.
I'm 24 years old and live in Rogerstone near Newport. I grew up in the seaside town of Worthing in Sussex. I left to go to Bath to study History and have since moved to Wales.
What's your story about?
It's about me and my grandparents and the memories that I have of growing up by the seaside. Some of my happiest memories are of visiting the seaside on days out with my grandparents.
Why did you choose this particular story.
Since I was young I have always enjoyed history, but rarely do I get to tell my history. I chose this story as I wanted to share two things that were important to me as a child - the seaside and my grandparents.
What did you find most rewarding about the workshop?
I found the workshop an amazing experience. I enjoyed meeting new people and sharing stories and also the chance to learn new IT skills.
Your comments
"It made me think of when i lived in Worthing, (mum still does) and going on the pier jetty to fish and catch the odd eel. Also going to the Dome cinema, back in the mid 70's it was known as the flea pit!! First full time job after leaving Durrington High in May 78 at H. R. Bugby Butchers which was located in Offington Lane at the Thomas A'Becket junction, sadly the butchers is now a gas fitting shop ... many a good time spent at West Tarring Boy's Club, and South Farm Youth Club ... happy days."
Jim Tuddenham from Norfolk."They were a great couple your grandparents, your nan was very special lady. i miss her and her erder. busticle not same without her."
Gareth."That mechanical monkey band is still there!"
Becky from Worthing." We've just celebrated Worthing Pier Day and I found this story ... you'll be glad to hear that the monkey band are still going strong! "
Dan Thompson, Worthing.
