I was still nine in the summer of 1940 and after Dunkirk there was a plan put into operation to evacuate children to the overseas Dominions. I was booked to sail to Australia where I was to be sponsored by (later Sir?) Henry Jones the IXL 'Jam King' in Perth. Auntie Chris gave me my first watch. I was fitted out with my first suit. I was given a Panama hat too.. to preserve my English pallor? These are July 1940 photos of Mum, Dad, Martin and me at 12 Empress Ave. Wanstead with Grandma Steeds. Then the Germans sank a boat loaded with children going to Canada and the scheme was cancelled.
…And, at that time, with Grandma there is her sister Auntie Emmie and Chris, Dad’s sister, (neither of whom married). There's my cousin Michael on my right. And sitting with Martin is Auntie Mamie. I guess Uncle Alex was taking the photo. These might have been my farewell photos!
