29th June, 2009
Kieron Sumner
Good Times
What a suprise when I googled my name to come across this site. Our family lived in Eton Wick from the early 1950's - I was born in 1955. Mum (Jean), Dad (Ben or Freddy), Kim and Kelly lived at 40 Colenorton Crescent. We moved away when I was 9 to live in Windsor - it seemed like a hundred miles rather than just across the river. Fond memories of Eton Wick and I still vividly remember the trips. Nan and Grandad lived at 60 Colenorton Cresecent with my Auntie Cathleen. Uncle Jerry and Auntie Nora lived in Alma Road. It seems that everyone celebrated St Patricks Day when we were young and many of my friends were also from Irish families - Francis Foggerty, Kevin Kaneely, Patrick Delaney. Great friends also with the Springford boys - Paul and Andrew and their mum who had the patience of a saint.
Now the clan has moved away, although I have not moved far, settling in Burnham with my wife and the four kids. I still drive through the village on my way back from Windsor when I feel nostalgic.
Dad died a few years back and I read through his wealth of press cuttings. It seems he had a long career playing football for the Wick and also running in the annual race from Dorney to the Village. Kelly is now in Somerset married with two daughters, Kim is in Cornwall married with four daughters a son and loads of grand children.
Happy Days!!
4th June, 2009
Rebekah
Peter Dugan's memories of Eton
(See Peter Dugan's message of 19th April 2009, below)
I wonder do you remember people named Baldwin who lived at 11 Sunbury Road? Thomas and Evangeline were my great-grand parents and their son Lemuel James (Jim) was my grandfather. He moved to Ireland in the 20's but he came back most summers with his son and daughter. Dad, now in his 80's, has very fond memories of those summers and has retained a very great love for Eton.
31st May, 2009
Barbara Spicer
The Janes Family
My connection with Eton Wick/Boveney New Town is that my fathers family live at 6 Gordon Place from 1890 to 1901. The Family is Janes and my father attend the Porney School; as a child we were taken to the Brocas for a day where we spent many happy hours with Mum while Dad visited relatives in Dorney. Dad's mother's name was King and his father John Janes who was a blacksmith on Court Farm, the manager's name was Mr White. If anyone has any knowledge of the family I would love to hear from them.
If you would like to get in touch with Barbara, please use the email link at the top of the page and we will forward your message to her.
17th May, 2009
Peter Dugan
Gordon Paintin
I remember Gordon very well. I believe his Father had a cycle shop in Eton where I made many a
visit.
12th May, 2009
Roger Paintin
Memories
I lived in Eton Wick from 1958 to 1980. My dad - Gordon Paintin - is still there living in the same house for 60 years. My mum - Kath - died some 12 years ago. Found memories of wicko carnival where mum and dad ran the bottle stall. The 5-a-side football on easter monday. I remember working at Sibleys the newsagents and petrol station when petrol was 23p a gallon!! I also delivered the morning papers around the village and rode the trade bike to Broken Furlong. My sister - Jennifer - married and now lives in High Wycombe. Looking at these messages and i recall Andersons shop, Clarkes fish and chip shop, Barons and of course Sibleys. Happy days.
9th May, 2009
Lynette Williams
Ernest Lynch married Annie Cox
I was wondering if anyone would remember my grandparents or know where any of our relatives are today? My grandad Ernest Lynch (born 1923 Eton) married my nan Annie Cox (born 1922 in Easthampsted, she liked to be called Ann) in 1947, they lived at 132 Eton Wick Road, where they had 3 girls Shirley, Monica, and Susan, but Annie sadly died giving birth to a son in 1957, aged just 34, sadly the baby boy passed away as well. Ernest Lynch had 3 sisters, Hilda, Eilene, and Monica. We believe Annie had 3 sisters Rosina M Cox (born 1915) Lily F Cox,(born 1920) Doris M Cox (born 1925) and a brother William B Cox (born 1927, their parents were John and Rose Cox (maiden name Roth) we believe they lived in the Berkshire area, and would love to hear from anyone who may know their where abouts or any relative! My grandfather took over his parents house after Annies death, which was nextdoor to the pub called the Shepherds Hut. I'm going to try to put a old photo of Ernest and Annie on here which we believe was taken on the park green called the Brockers. If anyone reconise's them we would to hear from you, thank you. Lynnette
8th May, 2009
Anne
Just about Eton
hi my grandad Ernest Lynch used to own the house next to the pub in eton wick i remember the pub well as a child was always in there as a family my grandad died in 1997 i think and now some of my relatives still live in Eton.
19th April, 2009
Peter Dugan
Memories
My Father was a baker in Eton High Street and when I left Eton Porney School in 1936 I spent a couple of years delivering bread in the Wick, so I know the area well.
Served many of the parents of the lads and lassies I was at school with.Am in the two photos in the Photo History of Eton Wick @ Eton. One sitting next to Maurice North. Was in the Church Lads Brigade with Cyril Smith, Alf Fellows,George Birch and others. Band photo in the book left to right - ? Alder, Albe Haverley, Alf Fellows, Sgt Alder.
My aunt Mrs Tow lived in the Walk; I believe she delivered the mail during the war. Mary Gyngell (Tarrant) lived in Tangier Lane,also Rita Pidgeon(Ray)I was in Sunbury Road so knew them well.
During the war my wife worked at
G.D.Peters with Jessie Hart - went
to her wedding - we kept in touch
and met occasionally until she
died.
Attended a few of the history club
meetings at Eton church hall - met
some people I knew in the old days.
Had some connection with Frank Bond
but cannot remember what - birthday
or or something like that.
Hope this has some interest to you.
Now living in Derby 4 and 1/2 years.
8th April, 2009
Penny Wright nee Newcombe
My father
Our family came from Dorney Reach to live in Queens Road in the mid 1950s when I was about nine, my sister, Marion (who still lives in the Wick) was seven and brother Stewart about four. My Dad, Leslie, joined the Church choir straight away. He even got me in it when I was older and I remember us singing The Messiah. Dad was always involved with the PTA and he and Phil Hudson used to do a great deal of fundraising for the school. Dad used to sell raffle tickets for a cooked chicken and there was one to be won every hour at the fete. Dad called himself 'Chicken Joe'.They also were very involved with the whist and beetle drives enjoyed by us all. I remember all the hours spent at PTA committee meetings. Mrs Hudson used to be the school secretary too.
I remember Miss Rook who was very frightening to a small girl and Mrs Miles who was not and then there was Mr Moss. He took me on the front handlebars of his bike to Boots on Windsor Hill to choose my prize for being Headgirl and I helped him choose the books for the other prizewinners and he rode home again with me perched on the front and with the bags containing all the books swinging from his handlebars!!! When I started at the school I seem to remember that there were a range of ages in that one large classroom and we sat in our 'age' groups. Once or twice a 'big' girl came and showed us what to do in our workbooks rather like the old idea of a 'Dame'school. Maybe it was only when a teacher was absent due to illness etc but I'd like to know if anyone else recollects this.
We used to race from school to the Village Hall at lunchtime along the top of the fields and Mrs Dowson and Mrs Rivers would be the dinnerladies keeping us all in perfect check when we arrived.
I went to Slough High School and then switched to Burnham Grammar and in my teens I longed for the rather rare village 'hops' and as for that 'Blue Bus' - well it was years before I got to see the end of a film as the last one at night left just before the end of any film from the Windsor Bridge stop! I didn't find out what happened to 'Bonnie and Clyde' until I was living in London and saw it again!
I live in Westcliff near Southend now with four children and a just retired dentist husband but I do visit the Wick fairly often as Marion is still there. Sometimes we walk to the churchyard and Marion tells me who has died and it is strange to see these people from my memories and talk about them - it's as if they are still around.
Eton Wick is not a pretty village but it is a lively and well-lived in one and it is probably fortunate that it doesn't suffer the curse of the picturesque villages which are full of second homes and like ghost places in the week.
I love your site and will enjoy visiting it regularly.
29 March, 2009
Edna McDilda
Elizabeth Howse
Edna McDilda has sent in this picture of her grandmother, Elizabeth Howse, who was born in Portsmouth in 1853 and married Henry Coe. Elizabeth's father was James Howse, born in Clewer in 1820, and her grandfather was William Howse, born in 1792 in Chalvey. In 1861 Elizabeth was living at Bell Farm.
27 March, 2009
Margaret Bannister
Burfoot photos
Margaret has been in touch to ask if anyone knows who provided the Burfoot family photos in the W.I. Jubilee Scrapbook at Eton Wick library. We think it might have been local historian Judith Hunter, but if anyone reading this can help, please get in touch using the form at the top of the page.
9th March, 2009
Richard Jordan
Vaughan Gardens
Our family moved into no.5 Vaughan Gardens when I was six weeks old at the start ot the 2WW (I was christened the day war broke out). Being a four bedroomed house when evacuees arrived from London during the blitz we were expected to accomodate people. Our family then numbering 3 kids plus mum and dad took in Mrs Tyrell and Charlie, who still lives in the village and does a lot of good work around the place. We also had a lodger and regular visits from Aunts and Uncles from areas like Ramsgate which was in the thick of things during the Dunkirk withdrawall at various times we had as many as 13 or fourteen living in the house with mum preparing packed lunches for those in the work force.(No sliced bread in those days) Bikes had to be stored in the bathroom (for fear the Jerries would pinch them) and put away in the order that they would be required next morning.
I remember as a 4 or 5 year old laying in bed under the window of the front bedroom and when the guns on Dorney Common went off the black out curtains used to flap and you could see the flashes and the searchlights against the night sky. My clearest memory of the war was when a doodle bug hit the Dust destructor chimney stack over on the Dedworth side of the river. It was a Saturday afternoon and Windsor Races were on and I remember hearing the P.A. announcer screaming over the loudspeaker system for everyone to get down. The blast blew out the windows in Mr Woolhouses Bike shop which was opposite Haywards Mead.
Mrs Cawsey taught me in the infants classes at Eton Porney School and the times tables have been emblazoned in my mind ever since. As a five or 6 year old new entrant I was caned by "Brummer Frampton" for climbing on a disused coat rack. I was most upset and to console me Margaret Wilson (who was in the top class) stretched a lump of chewing gum out of her mouth and passed it to me while I was waiting to be caned. She was a friend for life.
Most of our family left the village in the 50s but brother Bob stayed on and moved out the Slough in the 70s. Myself, Sisters Rose and Susan now live in New Zealand where mum and dad spent the last years of their lives. I still keep in contact with various Eton Wick residents and have hosted several Wick people during their holidays down under.To demonstrate what a small world we live in, my wife Carol (nee Chamberlain) operates a Sunday market stall and was recently serving a customer and casually asked where he was from he replied Windsor so Carol said so am I, he said, well not actually Windsor, Eton Wick to which she replied, so am I, he said where abouts, she said Colenorton Crescent to which he replied so am I. She asked his name Chamberlain he replied, that was my maiden name said Carol. He apparently lives at 36 Colenorton Crescent, Carol grew up at number 3. Its a small world alright.
Best wishes to everyone with fond memories of the Wick
8th March, 2009
Maurice Wilkins
Charles Wilkins of Eton Wick
My great-great Uncle Charles Wilkins, who was born in Henley in 1863, was a butcher in Oxford Road, Clewer around 1891 and later on, according to various Kelly's Directories between 1907 and 1940, at 41, Stoke Road, Slough. This is still a butcher's shop, but now a halal butcher.
7th March, 2009
Anita Richardson
HMS Hermes and George Phillips
Anita Richardson sent the picture below, which is taken from the HMS Hermes website. She wonders if anyone knew her uncle George Phillips, and if so, whether they can identify him in this picture? If you can help, please get in touch using the link at the top of the page and we will forward your email to Anita.
Anita also sent in the picture of an unknown soldier, below, and wondered if anyone can identify him. The locket belonged to Nellie Wolfe of Eton Wick - Anita believes her husband was a Councillor or Mayor. Their daughter Elizabeth (Betty) Wolfe married Anita's uncle, who gave her the locket. If you can help, please get in touch.
11th February, 2009
Sheila Carrod (nee Emery)
Years gone by
Like many others, I too was born in eton wick just like my parents before me and their parents before them. I too fell on this site quite by accident, my what a trip down memory lane i've just had. It brings it all back, your childhood your youth and the more mature years. I have fond and lots of happy memories of my time in the village. I use to listen to stories from my parents and the laughs they use to have, i too told my stories to my children. I still have relatives living there so i still get to back every so often to visit. My family were the emerys/barnetts going back further to the stannetts,wilcoxs,clarks.
9th February, 2009
Michelle Hewett
The Prior Family
Hi, I am looking for info on the Prior family who lived in the village in the late 1800's to 1900's.
George Prior was born in 1883 and i believe he was a carpenter, his sons were called George Edward Prior, and Reg Prior, daughters were called Daphne and Ruby. I am still doing research on this and dont know much detail at the moment.
Thanks
Michelle
(If anyone can help with this enquiry, please let us know using the email link at the top of the page)
29th January, 2009
Sarah Akhtar
Painting of Saddocks Farm
I have an oil painting which has written on the back Saddocks Farm, Eton Wick. Painted by Allan Carr, no idea of the date, it could also say (in pencil) Spring Morning. Anyone interested in this? Anyone know why it was painted?
(If anyone can help with this enquiry, please let us know using the email link at the top of the page)
23rd January, 2009
Mr Ken White
Making contact with the past
I am still waiting to hear from ex-students who attended Eton Wick School during my happy five years 1953 - 1958 there. I am now approaching 87 so hearing from you soon would be great.
(If any former pupils would like to contact Mr White, please send a message to the website and we will forward your email to him.)
18th January, 2009
Tony Dyer
Messerschmitt 410 at Radnage
Found this site when researching the Me410, I have one of the engines. The farmhouse damaged had a young Ollie Reed plucked out of it. He was traumatised by the sight of the body crewman according to his biography.
(click here for the full story of the German air raid on Maidenhead, Feb. 1994)
14th December, 2008
David Cawsey
Eton Wick History
I've just revisited the site - and read many interesting entries since my own entry of October 10 2007.
There are several mentions of David Niven's occupancy of Wheatbutts, and I have another story about this.
My cousin tells me that she and a friend learned that David Niven was at home at Wheatbutts and went there to ask for David Niven's autograph. The housekeeper said that Errol Flynn was with David Niven at that time and asked them to return later for the autograph, which they did. (David Niven and Errol Flynn were known to be great personal friends)
Two people remember being taught by my mother at Eton Porny - she was teaching there for 16 years (1940 - 1956)
2nd November, 2008
Gillian Radiff (nee Marshall)
Remembering Eton Wick
Hi everyone. My sister Christine found this site quite accidentally and I am glad she did.
Chris and I moved with our mom and dad, Dave and Betty Marshall to Eton Wick in 1961 or 1962 (my memory is not that good). They had built a new house on Victoria Road next door to the Lovell's. We both attended Eton Wick School and I remember Mr. Moss and many of the teachers. Our family moved to Canada in 1967. I have lived in Calgary, Alberta (Home of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth) since then. The last time I saw Mr. Moss was in 1973 when we went back to England for a visit.
Here are some of the other things I remember: walking across the common to reach the river, going to Boveney Lock on Sunday afternoons to watch the boats going up and down the river, walking Mrs. Smith's dog Comical after school.
I remember Mr. Cox and going for lunch at the Village Hall, the craft sales at the Village Hall where all the ladies brought their hand made items to sell.
I remember the swimming races at the pool, and the time that one of the construction workers (who told us he was the Canadian Log Rolling Champion - and he probably was) gave us a demonstration of his skills during the competition.
I remember trying to play net ball and not being good at it. I remember playing the recorder as part of the recorder group at assembly's and plays.
I remember Mr. Moss used to put an object on display and ask the students to guess what it was. Anyone remember some of the things he had on display?
In 1967 the school had planned a trip to Holland. I was supposed to go, but my family was moving to Canada and we weren't sure of the departure date so I had to give up my spot.
My good friend Ann Myhill, who lived down the road from us, and her family moved to Calgary, Alberta Canada in 1966. They stayed in Calgary for a few years and we kept in contact, but they eventually moved to New Zealand.
Thanks to everyone who had a part in putting this site together.
26th October, 2008
Clare Gaboury (Stevens)
November 5th
I remember fondly Guy Fawkes night growing up in Eton Wick. Does anyone else remember the huge bonfire on the Common, behind the Greyhound? Everyone brought there old furniture etc and we had a great bonfire - with a Guy on top of course.
I also remember the 5-a-side football games around Easter time - originally at the Stockdales Road Recreation grounds - sweets were always given out at the end of the games - courtesy of Mr. Bond!
It's great to come back and visit "the Wick" - it's a beautiful location.
24th October, 2008
Judy Donnelly ( was Humphreys)
Eton Wick
I grew up in Eton Wick and was a brownie with Mrs Warr and Enid Warr when they ran the brownies. My father ran the scouts group, my older brother became a queens scout and I think my mother was involved with the cub pack!
I attended Eton Wick C of E primary when Mr Vernon Moss was Headmaster, sang in church choir, and was married (1st time) in St John's church and lived near to the church.
Have very fond memories of my childhood and being able to go fishing and cycling and swimming in Eton College pool in the summer. The bus fare to Windsor when I reached the advanced age of 13 was threepence...old money!
How nice to see this web site, I now live in the USA, but miss home and plan to retire back to England.
23rd October, 2008
Arthur Mylam
Eton Wick Poem
Boveney 1940
Where the Thames flows wide and slow around old Boveney reach
Here as a lad I spent my lonely leisure hours.
On the towpath stood the old, tree-encircled church
Where so long ago the bargee's stopped to worship
On they're way downstream to markets in lower towns
Willows weeping green and yellow, leaned from the bank
Hiding the grey heron's favourite fishing place,
Along the bank meadowsweet and tall iris grew
Within the lane wood pigeon cooed in chestnut trees
In the rush bed sat tight the coot on hatching eggs
Water voles burrowed in fern'ed banks along the stream.
Dabchicks played bob hide and seek after fish to eat.
Circles in the stream, told where fish rose for the fly
A family of swans would paddle deep away
The cob, neck arched, wings raised, hissed his fierce defiance
Thrusting against the stream to join his nervous mate
Here I would sit to fish with hazel rod and line,
Feather float, bent pin baited with expectant bread.
Weir stream pike, patient, waited for food in the race,
In those days nothing disturbed our tranquillity
The world occupied with survival and with war.
To manhood I grew, the bugle sounded plane
The river and I would not know such peace again.
23rd October, 2008
Vernon Humphreys (Butch)
The Humphreys Family
Hi found this site, i read the bit by Jim Moss about the trip to Bealuei and i recall myself & my sister Judy were on that trip also.
We moved to the Wick in 1963 my father Stan was the Public Health Inspector (stan stan the sanitary man) as Bill Olney used to call him.He also was involved with the scouts, i noticed there is a picture of him alongside Ernie & John Coke.
My mother Olive was also a cub leader 'bagherra' later taking over the Guides in Eton.They took the guides to Austria in the late 60s, but thats another story. They retired to Whitstable in the 80s and after a spell of living in Normandy, they returned to Whitstable, sadly passing away 3 years ago.
My contemparys were Dino Asslet, Terry Pardoe, Pip Reader, Dicky Denham, Les Foster, Frank Fogarty, Steve Fearn, Dave Fearn.
Eton Wick History Group Committee
Remembering Mary Gyngell
Mary was a founder Member of the of the Eton Wick History Group, which was formed in November 1992. She was the group Secretary who also found speakers for our yearly programme to give interesting talks on local history, whilst she was an encyclopedia of knowledge in particular on the history of Eton Town.
Remembered are Mary's home made fancy cake refreshments provided throughout the year, especially at the festive season of Christmas, which added to the enjoyment of the evening for attending members.
Her many friends from the History Group and other local organizations will miss her warm sincere friendship and the support that she gave to them.
Remembering Mary, the History Group made a contribution of £100 to her chosen charity, The Parapet Trust at Windsor Hospital.
20th October, 2008
David and Mary Mitchell
Mary Gyngell
We were saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Gyngell a dear friend we made during the years we lived in Alma Road after we were married. I also worked at High Duty Alloys with her husband Ernie, or "Gyn" as she liked to call him.
We shared a regular Friday evening get together at her house in Colenorton Crescent and it wasn't until years later that Mary told us how they would rush around after tea, pack the children off to bed and tidy the house to convince us how little disruption having children actually caused.
Her obituary in the Express, kindly forwarded to us by a friend, mentions her interest in crosswords. She was extremely well read, knowledgeable and each Friday would present us with a word for the week. It is solely due to Mary that I know the difference between a Haha and a gazebo.
We have stayed in touch over the years and were pleased to see her during our return visits to the UK. We shall miss her, but treasure the memories of those shared Friday evenings.
20th October, 2008
Martin Deebank
Memories of the Wick
I lived in the Wick from 1963/4 until 1988, when I moved to Watford. Still manage to get back occasionally, but nowadays it's usually to visit my mum and dad's grave in the churchyard of St John the Baptist.
In my family's time in the village my dad (Harry Deebank) was a keen allotment holder and also helped with the Wicko carnival, whilst my mum (Ellen Deebank) used to run the 2nd Eton Wick Brownies as Brown Owl.
So many memories of the Wick. Taking the go-kart on the "yet to open" Windsor Relief road so that we could collect the corona bottles from the workmen and take them back to Chantlers' for the 6d; fishing for frog-spawn in the brook in common road; collecting old pianos on Frank (killer(?)) Bond's lorry so that they could be smashed up at the Wicko carnival; camping with the cubs at Perrywood camp; once again camping, this time with the school at Wolverton and going on the long boat over the aqueduct; being made to miss most of the leavers' party as Mr Nash tried to make sure that I passed my 10 yard swimming badge before leaving the school; log rolling in the school swimming pool; getting smacked in front of the whole school (along with my sister Christine) for not getting home from school until about 10pm - the chips were so tasty then and the lure of just sitting on the wall by the Village Hall meant that the time flew by.
I also seem to remember that at one of the Wicko carnivals they had some of the wrestlers putting on a display in a marquee. Does my memory deceive me or did this include people like Jackie Pallo and Mick McManus?
Looking at the names of the members of the Eton Wick History Group here are a few other things that may jog their memories (or at least their families' memories); as a child at Eton Wick school I was in the same year as Amanda Denham and used to go round to her parents' house in Queen's Road to play occasionally; as a teenager I had a Saturday job at Andron (run by Andy Hodge and Ron Savage) on the Slough Trading Estate; when I started work I used to travel from Slough to Paddington by train with a very agreeable and distinguished elderly gentleman (or so he seemed to me at the time) by the name of Mr Ballhatchet (he always did the crossword in one of the broad-sheets whilst I tended to stick to the easier Daily Express quick crossword); then in my early twenties I played football with Tim Gyngell's Castle United team for a short while.
Martin has kindly sent us some pictures of the school and cubs football teams - we will be adding these to the website soon.
16th October, 2008
Arthur Mylam (Dick)
Like to hear from you
My grand parants moved to Eton Wick in 1900 and lived in Gallater Cottage oposite the chapple.Ware I was born in 1925.Perhaps my mother will be remembered Mrs Mylam she remaraied after being a widow for so years and became Mrs Revel.
If you want to get in touch with Mr Mylam, please send a message and we will forward it to him.
27th September, 2008
Louise Gum (nee Chamberlain)
Memories!
Like many others I found this website by accident. I am part of the Chamberlain family, originally from Victoria Road. My wonderful nan still lives in the village. My dad Peter and his twin brother David grew up in the village from 1944. I lived in Alma Road as a baby and then Princes Close until I was about 8. I remember Mr Moss and more so Mrs Moss because she shared my birthday 15th March. Great site well done!! I am now living in Australia.
29th July, 2008
Jennifer James nee Bond
A trip down memory lane
I found the site by accident and what a trip down memory lane it gave me! The shinty matches - I still have an egg cup, the scout fete - my uncle Ernie Coke was 'Skip' - and the celebrities we had to open it - I remember Geraldine McKewan, Beryl Reid and Stewart Granger. My father, Bob Bond, said that David Niven lived in the Wheatbutts and I remember Mrs Cawsey at Eton Porny who taught me and my twin sister Pauline in the first two years of school - does the school have reunions - I'd love to go. I also remember the Nissen huts on Dorney Common - John Ratchford lived in one I think. I also remember the dips dug into Eton Wick Great Common to make it impossible for enemy planes to land during the war and when we had snow in the winter you could get very wet if you stepped in the wrong place and fell in!
I have a second cousin - Daphne Bond's daughter - who has compiled a family tree of the Bond family back to about the 16th century - so many rolls and rolls of paper!
I was quite surprised on a recent visit to the village that I was recognised as it must be 30 years at least since I was a regular visitor - spooky! I shall have a look now from time to time to see updates and as I live in Ascot - Pauline lives in Burnham - it wouldn't be far to come for a get-together if one was ever organised.
Best wishes Jennifer
24th July, 2008
Anita Richardson
Info on relative
Hello
Does anyone in Eton Wick have any recollection of a lady named Doris VL Savage (nee Read) - her husband's name was Edwin James Savage. He died when HMS Hood went down in May 1941. They lived in Eton Wick at some time between 1923 and 1941. Mr Savage was my Uncle and only one of his brother's is still alive he is 87 and memory is fading. He just remembers that his brother's name was Edwin and he was married and living in Eton Wick sometime within the above dates.
I would be grateful for any info. Thank you
If you can help with Anita's enquiry, please send us an email and we will forward it on to her.
19th June, 2008
Jane Larcombe (nee Hill)
Gymkanas at Bob Bond's
My maiden name was Jane Hill, my Mum was Joy Keen, my Grandmother Kathleen (Kate/Kit) Keen and my Great-Grandmother was Ellen Keen (of W. Keen & Son, Montem Lane, Slough). All of us were known to Bob Bond and he knew my Dad, Ron Hill also. I have photos from the horse shows/gymkanas that were held on Bob's land in Eton Wick in the early 1960s, when I was very small. if you would like copies. If anyone wants to get in contact my email is: jane.larcombe@hotmail.com
If anyone else has photos or stories about the horse shows and gymkanas, please get in touch - we hope to add some of Jane's pictures soon.
1st June, 2008
Joanne Long
Lovell Family
My great grandfather Frederick John Lovell was a master grocer in Eton Wick around 1901 - the address I have is 5 Bell Lane which I believe was the Post Office, was the Post Office in the grocers shop? or vice versa?
His father Thomas Lovell was a baker and grocer at the same address in 1891, and before that the family lived at 1 Ada Cottage after moving from London.
Would love to hear from anyone with any info on this family.
If you can help Joanne, please send a message using the link above and we will pass it on.
29th May, 2008
Caroline Hallett
School 120th Anniversary
Eton Wick First School is organising an exhibition of past pupils and staffs memories of their time at the school. If you have anything that we can used ie memories, photos, reports etc and would be prepared to let us copy and use them please contact me at the school. Our telephone number is 01753 860096, or drop them in to school in an envelope marked for my attention. If you would like the items returned please could you enclose a stamped addressed envelope. Many thanks
If you would like to send any memories by email, please use the link above and we will pass your message to the school.
26th May, 2008
Tony Downey
Fond memories
Reading through your web site brought back lots of fond memories of my early childhood in Eton Wick.
I was born in June 1956 at number 34 Alma Rd,right opposite what was the old Co-op. I lived there with my Nan, Helen Botsford,my mother Ann and my brothers Bernie and Roger, until about 1967 when we moved to Horndean Hampshire. I returned to the Wick fairly regularly to visit my nan up until the early eighties when she came to live with us in Portsmouth. Unfortunately both my mother and my Nan have passed away,and I now live in Australia, so I don't know what happened to all their old photos, I'll get onto Roger to see if he has them, and I will post them on the web site.
Keep up the good work. Fondest regards to all.
Tony Downey
15th April, 2008
Kate Martin (nee Kean)
Colenorton Crescent
After approximately 55+ years there is no longer a member of my family living in this road. I lived in Colenorton Crescent from 1953 to 1969 (when I got Married) My Aunt - Mrs Cissie Friend and my cousin Margaret (Terry) Roberts also lived in the road. Margaret has just moved out but remains in the village now living in Clifton Lodge flats.
My family have probably been around the village for more than 100 years. Margaret being born there and now 86 years orginally lived at Manor Farm, then in Shepcote Lane. I went to Eton Wick School along with Margarets son Ian. Maragret also went to Eton Wick school and both she and Ian won the cup for swimming. If my memory is correct, this was for swimming a mile and I think Ian was only the second person to win this after Margaret herself. Whilst moving Margaret we have found pictures of both events.
I have read some of the guestbook entries and a lot of names spring into my memory. Robert Moss, being taught by his father and also Mrs Miles and Ken White. Hazel Pygall, Joan Benham to name but a few.
Does anybody rememer the 'bagpipes' being played around the village at New Year? If so that was my Brother!
31st March, 2008
John Bond
Old Wheatbutts
I just read the message from Terri Reed from 29th November.
I was always given to believe that David Niven lived in the Wheatbutts. He certainly lived in Eton Wick for a short time. He gave my friend Ronnie Cox a half crown which he still has!
26th March, 2008
Andy Denham
Shinty
I remember the shinty competition organised every year by Mr Moss. When we first moved to Eton Wick in 1960 I was 9 years old. I was asked by my class teacher, Mr Blay, why I had not put my name forward for the Shinty competition. I had no idea what shinty was, but he assured me that I would enjoy it as, "I was a good footballer". He was right, I did enjoy it.
That first competition was held on the Stockdales "new rec" and I remember the first game I played. Being fairly new to the village I was in a team with four other children that I did not know. I believe that the captain was called John "HONKEY" Alder and he put me in goal. I enjoyed the competition and we went on to win it.
The final was held on the Wheatbutts as part of the Scout Fete entertainment. I remember being surprised at the trophys; egg cups for the runners-up and ash trays for the winners - we were still at primary school, how attitudes to smoking have changed! These trophies were made each year at the Clee Pottery in Eton High Street.
The shinty competition moved fron the New Rec to the old Rec with the final taking place at the WICKO entertainment. It was eventually held at the School itself and the competition had expanded to enclude an open section for teams outside of the village.
25th March, 2008
Steve Blay
Shinty
I think I remember reading a while ago, a comment from one of the guests asking if anyone had pictures of Shinty games? If so please find attached 2 photos I have found that may be of interest? These were taken where the game was regularly played in the Haywards Mead Recreation ground. One skinny player was me (Not so skinny now I must hasten to add!) But I wonder who can recognise any of the others. It was a good game which I really enjoyed playing, but fairly unique to Eton Wick!
24th March, 2008
Doreen Ridden
Moore History
To Lindsey Fisk and any other Moore relatives
I am related to John Moore and John William was the youngest child of John William Moore and Mary Anne Shorter. We are in fact related as John William's sister Lilian Beatrice was my grandmother. I would love to hear from you and catch up with family history information.
27th February, 2008
Lindsey Fisk nee Moore
John William Moore
With ref to the message below. I have looked at the family tree that my father started before he passed away and yes, you are correct the John William Moore born in 1874 had a son called Alan by his first wife Elsie Colville. Alan was my grandfather although I never met him. My father Richard Alan Moore was brought up a friend of his mothers.I guess that makes the John William Moore of Moores Lane my great grandfather.I have numerous photos of John William and his wife Elsie and also of your great, great grandfather in Eton Wick which my Dad must have uncovered tracing his family tree.
Note from website editor for Lindsay and John - if you would like to get in touch with each other directly, please send another message to the guestbook with your email address included and I will forward your message to the other person.
22 February, 2008
John William Moore
John William Moore
With ref to Lindsey Fisk (see message below), John my gt gt gt grandfather did not have a son called Alan but did have another John William born in 1874 who lived with him at Eton Wick who married a Elsie Colville and moved to Egham. Hope this helps.
18th February, 2008
Lindsey Fisk
John William Moore
I have been looking at my father's book tracing his family tree and it appears that his grandfather was John William Moore of Eton Wick. My father was called Richard Alan Moore and his father was Alan Moore who I think was the son of John William Moore.
16th February, 2008
Jim Moss
Beaulieu
When in the UK recently, I came across some details that my Dad had written down about a school trip to Beaulieu on May 29th 1964.
Coach to the station at 8am, Train to Southampton, Boat Cruise, Time at Beaulieu, Tea, and then Home again for 9.35pm. Cost for each person - 27 shillings (1 pound 35p!). 70 children and 11 adults went. There is even the list of everyone who went!
For the record the teachers/adults were Mr. Moss; Miss Winder; Mr. Nash; Mrs. Smith; Mrs. Pearce; Miss Maclean; Miss Priest; Mrs. Stokes; Mrs. Miles; Mr and Mrs Ford.
The children were (hope I can read Dad's writing correctly!): Linda Lovell; David Longmore; David West; Tony Hester; Clive Brett; Keith Brimmer; Terry Reeves; Andrew Wynn; Derek Tyrell; Pamela Bond; Gary Stout; Marie Rawlings; Linda Wilson; Susan Myhill; Leslie Foster; Janice Brennan; Valerie Stickland; Marissa Hunt; Michael George; Graham Brett; Paul Feurings(sp?); Geoffrey Harris; Susan Lund; Jennifer Farrer; John Lynch; Alan Lynch; Malcolm Budd; Andrew Clatworthy; Imade Iyare; Stephen Delaney; Susan Rowlands; Steven Denham; Stephen Wyeth; Barbara Eyles; Clive Razey; Ann Charlton; Manning Howard; Jane Schultz; Tracey Talbot; Paulette Sharpe;Linda Benham;Kieron Sumner;Anne Harding; Barbara Harding; Haydn Ash; Graham Ford; Linda Clarke; Christine Jaycock; Kim Devonshire; Janis Valdmanis; Ian Sainsbury;Lesley King;Carol Sherwood;Kenneth Sharpe;Christopher Lovell;Christine Cameron;Patricia Brennan;Martin Swadling;Andrew Neate;Paul Gapper;Elaine Hunt;Linda Varley;Brian MacLeish;Francis Fogarty;Stephen Fearnley; Andrew Rainer; Janet Huse; Lesley Hinton; Helen Pethybridge; Steven Hinton.
Hope this brings back memories for some other visitors!
Stephen Denham has added:
"This cover the top 3 years I believe, but there are some children that are not on the list, I presume that they did not go, David Fearn and his sister Linda, Brian Higgins are a start. I will have to let the memory do its stuff to see what other names I can come up with."
13th February, 2008
Carol Chew
Chew Family of Windsor
I read your articles with interest as a member of the Chew family in Willenhall in the West Midlands. It look as though they were well respected in the area.
I believe one of my husband's family moved to Windsor after the lst world war. If anyone knows of any relatives I would be pleased to hear from them, especially Pete Chew, who I believe may be related.
If you can help Carol, please contact us and we will forward your message to her.
27th January, 2008
Keith Mann
The Army Camp on Dorney Common
I was born at the Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital in Taplow in May 1948. My parents lived at the army camp on Dorney Common from (at least 1948) until about 1952 I think.
We moved to Meadow Lane in Dorney Reach and while living there I attended the infant school in Dorney. My grandparents lived at Britwell Farm in Burnham. My mum worked for Colonel Palmer picking fruit, I can remember her taking me along (before the age of child-minders).
I now live in Bedfordshire but still like to pass through when I am down that way (the Shepherds Hut is still a fine pub).
Congratulations on the web site, keep up the good work.
24th January, 2008
Doreen Ridden
Hi
My greatgrandfather was John William Moore and he was the father of Annie Tough who got the Primitive Methodist Chapel built. She was step-sister to my grandmother Lilian Moore. My grandmother was the first person to be married in the newly built Methodist Chapel.
I remember coming down as a child with my father to collect rent in Alma Road from the houses that were family owned. They were eventually sold to local residents.
I remember Sylvia Chew at a family wedding in the 60's and kept in touch with her till she died.
For Becky who wrote on this site in May 07 - Annie and Charles Tough were living at Bell Farm in 1877 after their marriage and until Charles' death in 1924 - that's all the info I have,but I havent heard of the person you were asking about.
I think Eton Wick is lovely and have come down quite a lot and taken pictures of Alma Road, Moore's Lane and of the churchyard where Annie and Charles are buried. I am also in communication with John Webb as his relations (The Groves) and mine tie up - we also tie in together with the Chews.
This is a great site and I shall continue to visit it regularly to catch up with what is happening. Keep up the good work.
Doreen
13th January, 2008
Richard Jordan
Eton Wick Nicknames
Although our family moved from the Wick in about 1954 to live at Willowbrook I stayed very involved with the village through the Youth Club and ended up as leader of the club from from 1962 to 1965 with Frank Bond as my mentor and adviser.
As a kid in the village it seemed nearly everyone had a nickname, many of them were conferred by one Terry Bolton who funnily enough never had one. But some those I can remember off hand are Knocker (John Webb),his brother Skimpy (Peter Webb),Padlock(Jeffery Pardoe)His uncle Conchie Pardoe, Tosher Johnson, Brusher (Doug Benham), Glueshy(John Bond), Pip (Brian Bolton) Buffer Hood, Buffer Wells, Buster Irvine,Knotchy (Micheal Knight), I know that many of these characters have passed on or moved away from the village but I find it interesting to visit the site from time to time and see names of people I grew up with, who got up to the same sort of tricks that we used to, sadly in this day and age Health and safety requirements I am sure would preclude the digging of Long drop toilets for the camp at St Ives and trying to cook a whole Lamb on a spit over a row of Primus stoves, it was delicious but a little on the rare side when we finally got to try it at midnight. Mackeral Fishing was always a hightlight of the Camp with Frank Bond going to great lengths to photograph people as they threw up over the side through sea sickness.
The world's problems were thrashed out many a night in the saloon Bar of the Shepherds Hut to which we would adjourn after the Youth Club closed at 10 o'clock. On a regular basis Frank Bond was caught for a round of drinks to which he would say "Don't worry about it I'll put a penny on the spuds tomorrow" When we talk of todays youngsters drinking under age I was a regular drinker from the age of 15, but I don't think I ever got drunk.
Looking back at other Guest book entries I well remember Ms Cawsey who drummed into us the times tables so that they are forever emblazoned on my mind. If any one else can add to the list of Eton Wick Nick Names it would be interesting to hear of them.
(Plumridge) Richard Jordan
January 4th, 2008
Monica Peck
Eton Wick School
My brothers Vic, Frank and myself went to school in Eton Wick although we lived in Dorney Reach as it was the nearest school. Our mum was at one time on the PTA. I remember Mrs Winder, Mrs Miles, Mr & Mrs Moss and Mr White. When Mr White moved to Canada Mr Moss arranged for my class to sing and a recording was made to be posted to Mr White. Mrs Moss taught my son when he went to school in Dorney Reach around 1973. I still have my shinty egg-cup 1964.
I am related to the Tarrants by marriage as my dad's sister married Bob Tarrant and I am also related to the Paintin family as my grandfather's sister Elizabeth Peck married Frank Paintin. I am also related to June Ellood.
I used to enjoy the Beetle game that used to be held at the school. The school dinners in the village hall were really good and we used to freeze walking there and back in the Winter. When it was the Christmas Party at the V/Hall all us kids had to remember to take a spoon into school. There was always a magician and party games. I still go through Eton Wick on my way to Dorney Reach when visiting my family. I now live near Guildford.
November 29th, 2007
Terri Reid
Old Wheatbutts
We are in the process of buying Old Wheatbutts and hope to be moved in by the end of January. We are fascinated with the house and are very much in love with it. Could anyone please either give us some photos, or perhaps memories or who lived in it and when. Is there another house called wheatbutts or is it old wheatbutts people are referring to?
If you can help with Terri's enquiry, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
November 1st, 2007
Andy Stewart
Eton Wick Memories
Hello. I have just come across your site. I was born in Eton Wick at 21 Alma Road on 31st May 1941. My mother was Edith (Edie) Annie Stewart (nee Jacobs) also born at no 21 in 1914 along with her sister Lillian Gladys (nee Jacobs) born at no 21 in 1919. Their fathers name was George Jacobs and his wife was Sarah Annie who was a Newell before marriage. My father Cyril George Stewart married my mother in August 1938 at St John The Baptist Church.
During the war father worked at Langley Alloys by day and in the Home Guard in Eton by night. In 1946 we moved to 16 South View Eton Wick Road from there I attended Eton Wick School, and well remember walking to the village hall for school dinners. Opposite no 21 lived a Mickey Bell who later played for Slough Town and Dagenham Football Clubs.
Have just read with interest Bryan Philips entry, I remember very well visiting his fathers cycle shed/shop and seeing his taxi parked outside their house. Many years later I met up again with Bryan when we were both Sgts in the TA at Taplow.
Other memories of Alma Road were the Shakespeare Stores on the corner with Bell Lane run by the Chinnerys who lost a son in a M/c accident by the Slads. Running errands for gran to the Co-op in Alma Rd. Going to the chapel and on coach trips to the seaside with the over sixties club.I also remember going on to Dorney Common and playing in the empty gun pits.The new shops being built and the Duke of Edinburgh opening the new playground on the new estate off Moores Lane. As a sixer in the cubs I carried their first flag for its dedication in the church. I believe it was the first fete in the Wheatbutts where I won £1.10s (£1.50 today) in the air rifle shoot out. Living upstairs in the 1947 floods.
I finally left Eton Wick in 1971 to live in Dedworth. I moved from their in 1977 to the present time to Weymouth Dorset. Both my parents now lie in Eton Wick Churchyard along with my Grandparents. Also Lilly and her husband Arthur and their only daughter Margaret. My sister Jean (also born in Alma Road) lives in Windsor and my brother Ian born at South View lives in Datchet. Those are just some of my memories of Eton Wick Good luck for the future
Andy Stewart
October 23rd, 2007
Yvonne Knibbs
Family
I didn't realise this village existed until my mother told me her mother (Constance) was born there in 1904. I do have to say that for one so small you do seem to have a lot going on. Rather shocking (or so I thought) her mother Hilda had five children and never married and Constance married when my own mother was a year old. Does the name Powell mean anything to anyone in the area?
If you know anything about the Powell family, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
October 10th, 2007
David Cawsey
History - 1939 - 1946
Very interested to see your site. I lived in Eton Wick from 1939 to about 1946.
Here are a few random reminiscences and memories. My father was Harold Cawsey; in September 1939 he was the headmaster of Ben Jonson School, in Stepney, East London. They were evacuated to Eton Wick. Father ran the school in the Village Hall for two or three years, before it was amalgamated with the village school, under Miss Rooke.
Father ran the A.R.P. in Eton Wick. My mother, Ida Cawsey soon started as the infants teacher at Porney School, Eton.
Initially we lodged with Reg and Elsie Borrett. Reg was the local policeman, and used to take me fishing! We then moved into the house next door, and stayed there until we moved to Windsor after the war. Life in Eton Wick was pretty basic then - electricity had not yet come to the village. Milk came from a churn on a cart. Eggs came from our own chickens, and veg from our allotment on Moores Lane The radio required accumulators which we had to get charged weekly at the bicycle shop.
Mother and Father became great friends of the Chew family, who played an important part in Eton Wick history. They live on Moores Lane, just on the corner of Inkerman Road ( is the house still there?). Frances Chew was one of the original Moores family. She had married Archibald Chew and they had 4 daughters. The Chew family put all their efforts into supporting the Methodist Chapel on Alma Road. Sylvia and Joyce Chew continued their mother's support of the church, helped by Winnie Jewel, and the local handyman / builder, Harry Cook. (As a child, I found going to the chapel pretty boring! - but the Chews were very good to me.)
There are one or two other names I remember. There were the Badders. His end was sad. On getting off the Eton Wick bus, his coat caught in the door, and he was dragged to his death.
And of course David Niven owned the big house - was it Wheatbutts? But was he ever there? I don't think anyone saw him.
If you know anything about David Niven's house, or have other comments for Mr Cawsey, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
September 14th, 2007
Gerald Kennedy
Garrard Place
I noticed that there was an enquiry about Garrard Place a while ago. I was born at 3 Garrard Place on 6 May 1935. This made me a Silver Jubilee Baby, to commemorate which I received a bible from the residents of Eton Wick and Boveney, a christening mug and spoon and a one guinea Post Office Savings account from the Mayor of Windsor.
My father was Edward (Ted) Kennedy of 20 Cippenham Lane, Cippenham and my mother Lilian Maud Kennedy (nee Banham) of Shakespere Place, New Boveney. We moved to Cippenham in 1938 when I believe Garrard Place was demolished.
Dad was a keen footballer and I have vague memories of being club mascot, was the strip amber and black quarters? He later played for his works team, St Helens Cable and Rubber; his cup and league medals are with my sister in Stockholm so I am unable to give details.
As a boy I used to cycle to Eton Wick with eggs for my grandparents, going across Cippenham Green, across the fields to the sewage works and on across the Slypes(?), then a muddy footpath. Grandfather had lost a leg in Mesopotamia in the first war. I thought he was in the Norfolk Regiment, but they don't appear to have been to that theatre. He would send me to change the accumulators for his wireless and to fetch beer in an enamel jug sealed with brown paper. This was towards the church on the road to Eton; I can't remember any names or places.
The last time I was in Eton Wick was ten or more years ago, visiting my niece and her family. She has since emigrated to Toronto and I have no family remaining in the area.
Hope this is of interest.
August 27, 2007
John Bond
The Bond Family
Hi, my name is John Bond. I was born in the village in 1949 in Colenorton Crescent. I come from a very large family of Bonds in Eton Wick which were started off by Thomas & Roland (Rol) Bond in the early 1890s. (Two brothers who came from the New Town of Hazlemere near High Wycombe.)
As a child I have vivid memories of the five-a-side football competition held on Easter Monday. I can remember iceskating on the frozen floodwater on the common. Watching cricket at Tarrants farm, Gymkhanas at Bob Bonds (my grandfather's cousin), picking blackcurrants after school in my grandad's fields opposite the church, catching the bluebus on a saturday morning to watch Saturday morning pictures at the playhouse. It was 2d to the bottom of Castlehill and 2 and a 1/2d to the top.
I can remember Pass's horse and cart trotting around the village, the scout fete and my regular failure to win the minature garden competition. Youth club discos, Rob Hood's group sounds fx. My earliest memory was attending the official opening of the New recreation ground when the Duke of Edinburgh opened it. I can remember seeing the soldiers as I walked around from Colenorton Crescent.
At school I was one of Vernon Moss's possibles for passing the 11 plus.Not probables I hasten to add. I passed. From the school, I can recall Mr. Blay, Miss Winder, Mrs Miles and Mrs Babris (she was my favourite). I was a regular at the chapel and regularly went on seaside trips. So many other memories...
July 6th, 2007
Kelly Johnson
Growing Up in Eton Wick!
Hi my name is Kelly and my Grandparents, Eric and Minerva Goodall lived opposite the Greyhound Pub in Eton Wick until around 1990. My sister and I used to spend all our school holidays in the Wick (we are from Leeds) and I remember having some great times! Bareback riding the horses (I think it was Teabag the horse who set off and wouldn't stop!) in the fields opposite the house and making a den in the woods as well as meeting Ernie Wise at the shops near the playground! We especially loved walking down to the lock to watch the boats go by in the summer and as my Gran worked at Eton college we were able to use the outdoor pool there as well! We used to walk to the college and one time she took us the back way - the cows weren't too impressed and ended up chasing us across the field!!
Both my grandparents have passed on now and although writing this has brought back some great memories I'm now sat at work with tears in my eyes! I've always said I would love to come back to the Wick for a visit but it keeps getting put off!! Maybe someday soon I'll be back there!
June 30th, 2007
Pam Cartwright
Lammas Hayward
I was delighted to see the photo of "Hammer" Stannett, the Lammas Hayward, on your website. He is my great great grandfather!
My grandfather remembered that he would walk to Windsor some Sundays, still in his shepherd's smock. He also remembers when Hammer met tinned peaches for the first time:- he ate them with a knife and fork, bless him!
I would love any further details or photos that anyone might have about him. Many thanks for a great website, Pam Cartwright.
You can contact Pam by using the form on this page - we will forward any messages to her.
June 27th, 2007
Hazel Rees (nee Pygall)
Happy Days
Ken and Sue White have just sent me the link to this site. Its great as was the exhibition that Frank held in the Village Hall. There was much laughter when he pointed out photos of me at the Guides Gang Show, at Eton Wick Youth Club and camping in St Ives with them. I remember it cost £9 to go and I did a paper round for Bill Sibley down the Eton Wick Road to Broken Furlong and got 6 shillings (old money) a week but saved up to pay to go to camp. I could ramble on (I know I always do) but I have fond memories of the village and try to come there at least once a month to see my siblings. I also notice my niece Amanda Ross got on here before me - thats a first.
Good luck to everyone involved in this site
Hazel
June 25, 2007
Mr Ken White
Memories of Eton Wick
I first went to the Wick in 1940 as my parents had moved to the safety of this lovely village. My association with this area started when I began using the Willow Tree Inn where I met Bill Mitchell, the Benhams, Robinson etc members of the dart's team. Old man Stannard was the publican at that time.
Later, 1953, I was appointed to the post of Asst. Head at Eton Wick school when Miss Rooke was headmistress and Mrs V.Miles was a teacher in the old building. Miss Winder and I occupied the palatial new part of the school. I was to remain there until 1958 when I moved to Canada.
Even at 85 I look back with fond memories of the school and have on occasions met some old pupils form my teaching days. I have given Robert Moss some pages from my autobiography and hope that these may one day be part of the school's history. I now live in Farnbough Hampshire and would love to hear from ex-students.
If you want to contact Mr Ken White, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
June 19, 2007
Iris White
Willow Tree Public House
I recently found this group and was surprised to read so many names of years ago. My Family Mr.C. & Mrs A. Bateman together with myself and my small sister Mavis moved to the pub in 1953. My father was still working at Bell's Asbestos so my mother managed on her own during the day. I remember what great fun we had there on a Saturday night, with Mum supplying sandwiches and cakes for all and everyone enjoying each others company. And of course the many darts matches which the team won. Especially when my future brother-in-law Ken and Modge Benham were playing.
It was a very happy place. It was there I met my husband Gordon White who lived next door. We were married at Eton Wick Church in June 1954 later moving to 52 Eton Wick Rd. Recently seeing the cottage again, we were both struck by how little it had changed. The extensions and paving in the front garden was just as we had left it, in 1961. Our daughters Beverley and Jane were christened in St.John's too.
My father-in-law Mr.Percy White has the shop nearby called 'The Service House' which sold all sorts of household necessaties. My sister Mavis grew up to marry John Stacey and her children went to the local school, where Gordon's brother Ken was a teacher. Sadly, John died on 27th September 1996. I'm sure that the people of the 'Wick' will still remember him and Mavis for all there hard work in the building of the Social Club. His parents too Walter and Eddie who raised money for the scheme and who run the bingo sessions when the building was complete. I too had a hand in that, selling tickets and taking over the calling when Don could not do it.
It was a very happy place to live in those days and I miss the many people who have sadly gone. Like Mr & Mrs Woodhouse who lived next door, and the Bond family in the greengrocers I could go on but must draw a line somewhere.
25th May, 2007
Stephen Moss
Dorney Common
As my elder brother (Robert) and younger brother (James) have recently contributed, I am honour bound to add my contribution.
I have fond memories of Dorney Common, and the surrounding area, which I used to explore regularly along with my brothers and the likes of David Hudson. Indeed, I still have my 'Local Nature Diary' that I kept from 1964 to the early 1970's. On 3 April 1965 we saw a minnow and a frog in the sewage stream that ran behind our garden in Tilstone Close and I noted that "this was the first time a tidler or a frog had been seen in the sewage stream". A landmark occasion! Before this, it had been notable for its absence of any life forms apart from red worms - we used to make rafts and when they capsized became well aquaited with the contents of Slough's outpourings. On 28 August 1967 I recorded " a shoal of fish up to 6" long" - a sure sign of an improvement in water quality - or was it simply a better class of sewage from Slough? On numerous occasions between 1964 and 1973 we saw pike in the cleaner stream that runs alonside the common up towards Boveney. These were up to 2 feet 6 inches long, and often dead - "killed by sludge pollution" I reckoned. It was always a mystery where these pike came from, as I doubted they could survive swimming up the sewage stream from the Thames. Does anyone know - I presume someone put them in the stream? We also often saw water voles, heron, dabchicks, snipe and kingfishers. How common are these now, I wonder?
Dorney Common was a wonderful place for us youngsters to explore, and very unusual. It strikes me that I know very little about its history - when did it become a common and why did it remain treeless unlike so much other common land? I have found very little information on it - maybe someone would like to add something to the site - I know Eton Wick ends at the sewage stream but lets not be pedantic! Along with my brothers, I sometimes return to Eton Wick and walk across the common.
Happy memories of skating on the frozen floodwater and even of walking across the frozen Thames just above Windsor Bridge in the cold winter of 1962/63. Bet that will never be possible ever again. The death of the elm trees around the common's perimeter due to Dutch elm disease was a sad loss to the landscape.
We also visit the graveyard at the church and see names of people we knew when young. One thought always strikes me. I see names of men who sang in the church choir when I was about 10, in 1960 or so. At that time I looked upon these men as 'really old', but in reality they must have been mainly in their 40's. This does not seem old to me now as I head towards 60!
May 15th, 2007
Jessie Taylor
Paternal Grandfather
My father Peter Whitby Taylor was bought up in Eton. He died in 1980 and I never asked the questions I should have - namely anything about Laurie Alfred Taylor (his father) who was a Baker (journeyman) and lived in Sunbury Road in 1931. I know nothing of my fathers family, so please if anyone knows about either I would be so pleased to hear from you. Thanks in anticipation. Jessie
If you can help Jessie, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
May 7, 2007
Robert Moss
1950s/60s
Our family arrived from Norfolk in 1955 when Dad was appointed headmaster of the village school.
My immediate memories of village life would be: football (inc. annual 5-a-side - still have my runners-up medal) and cricket on the old and new recs; or sometimes cricket on Dorney Common, when the ball would inevitably land in a cowpat at some point, causing great amusement at the expense of the bowler who had to bowl the next ball; fishing from the iron bridge; the overpowering stench in summer from Cippenham sewage works; the village fete at the Wheat Butts; playing shinty - still have my 1964 souvenir egg-cup; the Blue Bus, which never left you stranded no matter how full it was; choir practice at the church on Friday evenings; riding my bike home from Slough in a fog so thick that in the area near the viaduct you couldn't see the ground you were riding on; the "Good Companions" youth group; Mr and Mrs Clark's fish & chips and Anderson's sweet shop - these are just a few things which spring to mind.
I'm now retired and living in Gloucester, but still visit Eton Wick about once a year and am in contact with one or two former residents from Tilstone Close, eg. the Quayle twins and Diana Hudson, who lives in Germany. Best wishes to anyone who remembers me.
May 6th, 2007
James Moss
Eton Wick - good memories
It did make me smile about people remembering Mr. Moss. Even though he was my Dad, I did make it to the green seat too! The brass bell inside the front door. Swimming in the pool with Mr. Nash. Shinty, Rounders, Shove Halfpenny, Darts, Michaelmas Fair with the somewhat damaged stalls that were stored at the Scouts Hut. The Football Scheme, Tombola - all school fund raising items. Even now when I got to my children's school fun raising I draw on those ideas. The bottle stall that was always the most popular! In these days of Dr. Who, the time a Dalek came to the school. Anyone recall Shakespeare's stores in Alma Road, The Co-op that became the Betting Shop? Barron's Stores?
Was fun to find this site. I usually pass through every year just to see what has changed (live in Canada now, but have to visist my Mum who is very much alive). I know we have photos of Eton Wick between my brothers and I, including ones of the entire school from the 60's.
Anyone go on the trips to Holland with the school, or the ones to Wolverton when in Class 4? Can think of so much more, but enough for now. Will be happy to reply to any e-mails! And still have my trophy from winning the 50 year 5 a side with Andrew Piasecki, Clive Paintin, Neil Simpson and Paul Miles! All the best. Jim
If you want to contact Jim, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
May 5th, 2007
Becky Bishop
Bell Farm
My 5x great grandfather had a son, William who lived at Bell Fram in 1861. If any one has any information on Bell Farm or the Howse family it would be greatly appreciated.
If you can help Becky, please use the form on this page and we will forward your message.
February 7th, 2007
Sharon Oxlade (Coupland)
Pardoes
My mother was one of the large Pardoe clan, Maureen. I lived in Eton Wick from 1960-1980 and have many fond memories of 'Wicko'and the fun I had helping out on the stalls. I also remember the fetes that used to be held on the Wheatbutts.
I remember Mr Moss and the dreaded 'green seat' if you had been naughty.