Interview about life as a railway apprentice and Shed Supervisor in Bletchley from 1948 onwards.
Gerald Dodds recalls arriving in Bletchley in 1948; he found it quite a contrast with Manchester, where he had been living. He recalls some workers being housed in redundant sleeper carriages in the carriage sheds, before the Manor House at Little Brickhill was purchased as a hostel. He describes aspects of his apprenticeship and remembers some fellow apprentices. Social life involved the Workingmen’s Club, and the Saturday dances at Wilton Hall. Later, as supervisor and Shed master, he recalls some serious incidents he had to attend. In his opinion, the old Factory Act was well observed by railways; speed getting the track clear was of the essence, nowadays he believes it takes too long. Through the British Transport Pensions Federation he is still in touch with many railwaymen. He and his wife have detailed memories of the layout of the old station, which they describe. Other topics discussed are mail pickups, horseboxes on trains from Newmarket, and the Payout Office outside the station. He comments on the change from steam to diesel and electric, and single manning, which led to a loss of companionship.
Creator
Dodds, Gerald
Contributor
Persaud, Dave
Reference number
WLM/021/001
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