We moved into a large but run-down house just as the snow started. We didn't see the tiling on the path again for over 2 months. We had children aged 4, 2 and 3 months. The wiring fused if we used 2 appliances, we had only one electric heater for the children's room overnight, the baby slept with us, (precautions taken of course). I stripped the picture rails to make a fire, we lived in the kitchen with the gas stove door open. The only advantage was that we were able to call on a laid-off electrician to fix the wiring and install central heating. Only then were we able to live in any comfort. We applied for emergency coal deliveries, but all the canals were frozen. Not our happiest memory. But our eldest was able to start school because Southall would admit 4 year-olds, whereas Ealing, from which we moved, would not take children under 6.
Arnold Saxton ● 1731d