Picnic in the paddock for war’s end

THERE are lots of faces to pick out in this packed photograph of a garden party held in Shortmead Street, Biggleswade and taken in 1945.

The party was to celebrate the end of the Second World War and took place in the paddock which belonged to Mr Peck, who was at that time the butcher in Shortmead Street. He had a dog named Trixie that is making a guest appearance on the left hand side of the photograph. And the buildings you can see at the back went into Chapelfields.

The picture was kindly sent in by Mr Wren. He doesn’t recall everyone’s names but was able to recognise the following people. On the right hand side of the table are Barry Carr, Colin Wren, Terry Peck (whose father was the butcher that owned the house), John Wren, Bobby Carr, Paul Ryder, Peter Smith, Mrs Smith, Mrs Walker and Myrna Walker.

On the left hand side he named Beryl Peck (sixth down from the top), Alfred Wren (third along standing), Doreen Wren and Jean Peck.

Mr and Mrs Peck are standing at the top of the table, along with Mr Carr.

“Most of the people in the photo are now dead” said Mr Wren.

Perhaps you remember the party, or have family members who are in it? Please contact Memory Lane.