The way into woods at the end of our garden

Memories of Hockley When I Was a Child

I remember Hockley Woods and Beckney Woods in Essex as they were when I was a child in the 1930s, the days when I used to roam about with my friends. The Spring is on its way and before long the windflowers will be blowing in Hockley woods and everything will be glorious. Beckney Woods I recall for the gorgeous bluebells that carpeted the woodland in the May. The scent and the colour were wonderful. I hope that it is still the same.
There was an area of neglected land near Beckney, not far from Plumberow, that was a mass of wild roses, broom, and other bushes. Amongst this wild land there were the remains of abandoned chalet type buildings probably from the 1920s. Everything had run wild. I think these buildings may have been part of a scheme to provide healthful acommodation for the poor. At the top of the hill, beside the wood there was the brick foundation of a ruined bungalow or house.
On the LNER railway bank were small, wild strawberries.. My friends and I would sit on the bank watching for trains and eating the berries. They were sweet and delicious. There were not many trains but occasionally one would come puffing by and the driver would wave to us.
On some wild land on the way to Ashingdon there were wild roses that I loved. Also along the way there was an old woman living in very unsuitable accommodation. She used to shout at us children as we passed, poor old soul.
We would feast on blackberries, in the summer and hazel nuts in the hedgerows. There were sweet chestnuts in Hockley woods.
We felt as free as the air. I think parents are more afraid to let their children roam free these days. It is a shame there is more fear now.