A selection of 1950s Photographs
1950s Rochford
By Rex Watson
One: Rochford District Council. I think Percy Cottis is wearing the chain. My father Reg Watson is front centre with two ladies looking over his right shoulder. I think the man 2 from the right is Arthur Portass, Head of Rochford Primary School before Mr Baltrop. Recieving refreshment?
Two: receiving moral support. Dad 6 from the right, Arthur 2 from left
In local elections Percy Cottis, local employer and Conservative often headed the poll with my father, local postman and Labour second.
Three: Rochford P.O. staff on retirement of the Post Mistress. I stand to be corrected on names but: 3 from the left Harry Ducker 5 Eric Littlebury 6 Reg Watson on the right Charlie Kilworth. Seated left is Nellie Chapman, daughter of Harry mentioned in other contributions.
Four: The 2nd. Rochford Scouts from the Methodist Church. This was said to be the first post war Jamboree It was held at Belchamps Campsite in Halkwell, still very active today. I think this was 1948.
The scouts not wearing shirts are Dutch. The Rochford scouts from the left, myself, eating, a Dutch scout, Henry Porter, Brian Afleck, Rowland Grant kneeling behind, ‘Podge(sorry), (‘Smithie’) standing.
Five: Rochford Athletic Fottball Team 1956. The person who did much to establish and keep the club going was Percy Colbear standing right. I only remember 3 right standing Henry Porter, kneeling with the ball Billy Francis, to his left myself. We won the Southend and District League cup that year.
Six: Rochford Primary School 1952: Mr Baltrop top left. My sister Betty Watson 3 from left top row. Robert Newman 2 from right front row. Betty and Bobby are cousins.
Seven: the same group Betty head down top row, Bobby standing.
Eight: Rochford Primary School 1955/56 My other sister Janice Watson with the drum.
Nine : Janice is 4 from the right.