My time in Rochford
Affectionate memories
Richard Hall
Having now reached my three score years and ten, I would like to comment on my time in Rochford which I remember with great affection.
I was born in Brays Lane, went to Rochford primary school and then on to Rochford Secondary School leaving at the age of 14.
Working at the local chemist (from age 11 to 21) I remember quite a few interesting facts about our small market town.
The actual market was held on a Thursday and local farmers would drive loose cattle and sheep up West Street to sell them. At this time (1955 to 1966) the square had shops such as Rome and Bishop, Hartley Saddlery, Youngs drug store and Fance the butcher. On the south side, Delph House, a sometime upmarket tea shop with staff in black and white uniforms served the very best.
The pubs were very numerous, Marlborough Head, Kings Head, Old Ship, New Ship, Golden Lion, White Hart and Rose and Crown to name a few!
The doctors in the town were all one man affairs where you walked in the back door, joined the queue and waited until the doctor had shown out the patient through the front door and to call "next patient". Dr. Southwell, Dr. Adams, Dr. Emery et.al.
At that time all traffic was two way and watching two number 7 buses trying to pass in West Street was quite something.
Rochford has always had a railway station, a golf course, it even had an aerodrome, and has a long interesting history. Farming, milling and light industry have been important as was the very large hospital with its iconic boiler house chimney.