Voices of Shoeburyness

Shoeburyness has witnessed a century of change, from the comings and goings of two world wars to its eventual absorption into its much larger neighour, Southend. This book comprises the memories of more than fifty people who lived and worked in Shoeburyness between 1919 and 1970. Individually, these stories are interesting; together they create a fascinating picture of a Shoebury that has long gone. Many of the memories are shared: long days on the beach, childhood games at ''Bunkers'', the tuppenny rush at the Bug Hutch and the folk who lived at Starve Gut. They remember the brickfields, the bargemen, wartime coastal defences, sports at Shoebury Garrison, and ''checkies'' on their bicycles. And yet, each story is very personal to the individual. The memories recorded here will strike a chord with all those who agree that ''it was always sunny'' and that ''Shoebury was a fantastic place to grow up''. It will give present residents rare insight into their hometown and provides a unique historical record of a much-loved Essex village.