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Wartime memories

Outing to Ford Aerodrome 1943

By Jennifer Goddard (Norrell)

The staff of Bellmans on a trip to Ford Aerodrome,Sussex in 1943. My mother Violet Norrell [Browse] is in black on the left of the picture in front of the bomber; she was Mr. Bellmans secretary. The photo with the Duchess of Norfolk shows the Mayor Mr.Dutton Bryant and Mrs. Bellman with the staff.

The dances ran by the HELPY CLUB of Bellmans raised large sums of money for the war effort. The dances were held at the Regent Ballroom and other venues and the local girls and soldiers, airman and navy men had a great time and a lot of money was raised. My Aunt married a Canadian soldier she met at a dance and became a war bride.

Staff of Bellmans at Ford Aerodrome 1943

From the private collection of Jennifer Goddar

Staff of Bellmans at Ford Aerodrome 1943

From the private collection of Jennifer Goddar

The Duchess of Norfolk addresses the gathering

From the private collection of Jennifer Goddar

This page was added on 03/05/2007.

Comments about this page

Thanks for sharing these photos Jennifer. I must show my mother-in-law when she comes over. I can't see her in the photo so maybe she wasn't there. Have you seen the other one of staff under London Road?

By Josie Campbell (06/05/2007)

Yes Josie I have seen the other photo. When I made the comment that I could not see my mother- having another good look she is in the photo but is peering out between two people. My mother passed away 18 months ago aged 94 years and I am sure she would have been delighted to have Bellmans remembered.

By Jennifer Goddard (nee Norrell) (06/05/2007)

Is there a lady there by the name of Maskell? Anyone know or familiar with the name?

By John Wall (06/05/2007)

My aunt Lily Dorrington (nee Standing) was working at Bellmans then. Does anyone who was there remember her?

By Jim Dorrington (20/09/2009)