St Paul’s Mews: The flats that housed an air raid shelter
SOUTH Reading residents have been reminiscing about one of its most recognisable landmarks.
This building on the corner of Whitley Wood Lane and Basingstoke Road has survived the test of time, including Second World War, and has been put to a wide range of uses since the 1920s.
Made of brick and flint, the hall has housed schools, churches, Scouts, Brownies, youth clubs and wedding receptions.
It has recently been converted into flats, which are known as St Paul’s Mews.
Having been shared on Whitley Community Museum’s Facebook page, the picture garnered interest amongst its members, with some recalling jumble sales, film screenings and an air raid shelter.
The museum’s curator, David Turner, said: “This building is unlike any other building in Whitley and in 1978 was given a Grade I listing status.
The building raises questions as the materials used are not what you would expect a church to be built from. I would love to know for instance where the flint material was sourced as it would certainly not be locally.
“Based on the information from residents, it was built to be a school but there are more questions in my mind than answers.”
With over 4,800 followers on Facebook, the Whitley Community Museum is an accessible online and in-person resource.
The group serves as a platform for residents past and present to share memories through photographs and comments.
It also allows group members to reconnect, with members reacquainting themselves with friends and schoolmates from decades ago.
The museum held a Whitley Way Back When event at the Community Cafe on Northumberland Avenue earlier this year to showcase its photographs and exhibits inperson. ■ For more information, search: Whitley Community Museum on www.facebook.com