...in the time of the Great Pandemic. We live in the short section of Grimston Lane which finishes in spiked metal and a dead end. Compulsory self-isolation means that although we may hear our neighbours, it is no longer a frequent occurrence to see them in actuality. Last night, at five to eight, I … Continue reading A round of applause …
Official lock down in Trimley. The Great Pandemic: Week 2
Small spring flowers in the hedgerow We appear to still be in a ‘phoney war’ period with the Covid-19 virus. It’s sniping fiercely around the edges while building up strength for a full onslaught. This time last week the total number of cases in Suffolk were 22. As of 11.00 p.m. on Monday … Continue reading Official lock down in Trimley. The Great Pandemic: Week 2
Pandemic in Trimley St. Martin: Week 1
Tuesday 24th March 2020 "...Will these hands ne'er be clean?" I have never incited any one to murder knowingly or otherwise but for the last three or four weeks I have assumed the persona of Lady Macbeth, as I wash and wring my hands until they are red raw. This is my diligent attempt to … Continue reading Pandemic in Trimley St. Martin: Week 1
Sue Biddle… Headstone Hunter
Sue Biddle in 2009 A fortnight ago, before the world became something unfamiliar to us all, Sue Biddle cycled round to see me with the aim of discussing one of her longstanding projects. Some years back I met Sue in the Ipswich Branch of Suffolk Record Office, one dull Saturday morning when she was … Continue reading Sue Biddle… Headstone Hunter
The true story of Lydia Rackham…
“Bound for Van Diemen's land, brave boys, Far, far across the sea” (The story of Lydia Rackham and her family was originally published in three separate parts in 2018 and 2019. I have decided to put all three together as one long narrative for ease of access.) Part 1 If you have lived in the … Continue reading The true story of Lydia Rackham…
Some like it hot – Curry Night and the restoration of Trimley Station
Postcard view from either the bridge or one of the gatehouses at Trimley Station Postmark 1909. (N.B. the lamppost is still in situ.) Please note, this event has now been cancelled due to the outbreak of Covid 19 When and where can you experience one or more of the following; Curry; Railways; Good Times rolling. … Continue reading Some like it hot – Curry Night and the restoration of Trimley Station
Catastrophe, Cockle, Coombs and Crime; an 1817 Felony in Trimley St. Martin
The gravestone of John Cockle in Trimley St. Martin Churchyard. Some weeks ago, I was reading a newspaper, ‘The Suffolk Chronicle’, for 17th May 1817. A small report containing the skimpiest of information caught my eye: “COMMITMENTS. – To the County Gaol, in this town, James Burroughs and Wm Wright (by the Rev. John … Continue reading Catastrophe, Cockle, Coombs and Crime; an 1817 Felony in Trimley St. Martin
