Catalogue

Interview
90, MA200/098/098
Mantle Oral History Project

Speaker: Windebank, William Hubert, 1909 - , Interviewee, Male, Builder; Apprentice (at Walter Moss)
Speaker: Walker, Robert, Interviewer, Male

Summary of interview item: Recalls early family life, his father's work as a butcher, how the family came to be in Leicestershire and his and his brother's education at school in Hugglescote. Memories of Hugglescote during the First World War, including the Zeppelin raid on Loughborough and the troops training in local fields. A description of Hugglescote and its inhabitants, such as the local baker, the police, local characters and Canon Broughton is given. Early work as an apprentice at Walter Moss in Coalville is described, continuing with his work as a builder in the interwar years. Also talks about the bank financing his business. Talks about life in Hugglescote during the Second World War, the hardships, rationing, sexual behaviour and the resentment by some of those taking mining work. Also describes offering his services to the war effort and subsequent war service in the Royal Engineers overseas. He recalls his marriage in 1942 and describes his wife's family. Recalls the entertainments available locally, including the cinema known as the 'Orley' at Hugglescote Working Men's club and the Floral Theatre becoming a cinema. Also mentions being a Scout master and running dance practice classes.
Place of birth: Hugglescote, Leicestershire
Education: Hugglescote Church school
Marital Status: , Children:
Father's Occupation: Bucher
Mother's Occupation:
Location: County: Leicestershire
Location: Town/Place: Hugglescote, Leicestershire
Periods Covered: 1910s, 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s
Language: English

Recording Date: 22/8/1990
Playing time:
Access Restrictions: no copyright Item Copyright: EMOHA
Summary: Yes
Transcription: No
Copies: yes
Cross Reference:

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Last updated: 08/05/02 East Midland Oral History Archive Web maintainer This document has been approved by the head of department or section.