My wish this Christmas is for every less fortunate child to be given £100 to buy a present
THIS is the last of my columns you will read before Christmas. I am sure that in the years past I have written about the celebrations from previous years… but this year I know it will be like no other in my memory – and that includes those that followed the war.
My first Christmas after the war had ended, was in 1945 when I was just 3 years old. I have no memory of that, so do not know if we went to Leicester or stayed at our home in Peterborough.
I was aware we had a lodger who came during the war and stayed on until my sister was born in 1948. I think he usually returned to his home in Scotland for the holidays, but I do not know if he did for my first Christmas.
I do remember when I was older asking my mother if I had any presents that year. Apparently there was very little in the shops to buy then but Mum did say that I was given a lot of money which was put in a savings account for me. I think that was what happened for a number of years until I was old enough to know that Christmas was about presents!
Our Christmas was different and also interesting for another reason. My father was born on Christmas Day, and I do recollect our tradition for that day. The morning was always about the stocking at the end of the bed and also that dad had his Christmas presents at breakfast time. Then after our dinner, it became dad’s birthday and time for more presents.
My birthday was just a tad earlier on 1st December and the first Saturday after that we always put up our decorations. I soon got used to the fact that this was to be my birthday party and friends from school were invited to tea. I think I would have received some more presents, but my memory cannot assist. I do know that my friends only got a balloon and a piece of cake in a serviette to take home!
It never seemed long before the big day arrived. The excitement was as great as it was for our children, but my sister and I did not appear to get the same stacks of presents. An annual, apple and orange plus a small box of milk tray (which were eaten straight after breakfast) was all I can remember, plus our main present.
This year I do remember these times very clearly as I think of children that are in cold homes, have little to eat and no stocking or presents. Our first Christmases had none of these problems. There was always a big fire, lots of food and maybe not as many presents as my children got, but sadly many children will not see such things this year.
I do hope all these youngsters who have little to enjoy this festive season do have love in abundance from parents.
There are so many times the Prime Minister comes on TV to tell as what the latest pandemic issue is, but I dream of the day that he ends a statement by giving every child £100 to buy a present and some food for their Christmas. I am sure many of us would find a way to meet the bill if Boris cannot do so. I guess this may not happen, but it will still be my wish for this Christmas. With luck we will stay fit and enjoy some relaxation and a good time on the 25th. I am prepared to forget about a holiday next year if it means my family and friends can stay clear of the virus.
I do wish you all a happy, safe and enjoyable Christmas where we all remember to care for our nearest and dearest.
I do hope all these youngsters who have little to enjoy this festive season do have love in abundance from parents.