The Jolly Forties! – or were they?

Each year I, along with a lot of other people enjoy “40s weekends”.

It is a chance to dress up in the sort of fashionable gear we wouldn’t otherwise be seen dead in, eat basic food, listen to music from old gramophone records and sit in crowded trains making jolly conversation. It is a happy occasion and people seem to have such a good time.

I sometimes wonder though if the 1940s were such good times. I know people seemed only too willing to make the best of things in a way which I don’t think we do today, but for many the 1940s were very unhappy times.

People lost members of their families and friends in the war. There wasn’t enough food to go round and many emerged in 1946 traumatized by the whole experience. Not that trauma was actually recognised, those suffering from it were sadly often advised to “buck up and get on with life.” Somehow the downside of the 40s rarely seems to be reflected in today’s celebrations. How easily we forget.

The outfits on show last week though were spectacular – especially the ladies. Their frocks and skirts were so full and colourful. I love the way so many of the gents wore hats and, of course, shirts with ties.

So what you see on my blog this week is a reminder of the people I met, some of whom I have photographed before. It is always a pleasure to see familiar faces.

My thanks to the officials of the North Norfolk Railway for putting on a good show.

Super to see steam trains and to meet friendly staff who were prepared to spend a few minutes posing and accommodating the wishes of a wandering camera man.

Have a good weekend. We may be back on the water next week.