Hi,

I grew up in Shrewsbury in the 1950s and I am writing a book about my childhood.

I am trying to find people who knew me or my family at that time. I was born in 1947 and my parents kept the Masonic Arms in Belle Vue Rd. I lived there until 1958, then briefly in Copthorne and Ridgebourne Rd before we moved to Sussex.
I attended Shrewsbury High School from 1951 until 1960.

Different members of my family actually kept the Masonic from the early 1930s starting with my uncle Joseph Flook and then my grandfather. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers them even if they never knew me!

I'm also looking for photos of 1950s Shrewsbury, especially of the flower show and the old market hall. Does anyone know where I might find some?

It broke my heart to leave Shrewsbury. I still think of it as home and writing down all of the memories is a wonderful experience.

Sylvia Ashton (nee Brinkworth)

Hi,

Having read your post, my Dad recently contacted me and said the following:

“I knew the family quite well as my Mum used to work at the Masonic prior to me appearing on the scene. In fact I am sure that is how Dad met her as he was a regular there. During my trips to Salop in the early war years I was usually dragged up to see Mrs Flook who then lived opposite the Masonic in Belle Vue and the Brinkworths were running the Pub. The main help for me is that I have quite a few photos taken around the back of the pub and some of the regulars out on their booze outings, and I am sure that Tom Brinkworth is on them".

My Dad is reluctant to join any bulletin boards, because in the past it has resulted in him receiving lots of unwanted e-mail (I'm sure this would not apply to this site, but it does often happen).

He would however be pleased to talk to you directly via e-mail and share his memories.

If you're interested, please drop me a line to my e-mail at:

vonsworld@london.com

and I'll then put you in touch.

Best wishes

Robin