Claybury Tales

We had a splendid turn-out for our Claybury History lecture on Saturday. Whilst it was pleasing to see so many of our members there, it was also gratifying that the audience was drawn from all over the borough and beyond. Approximately 130 in total.

We also had the pleasure of the Redbridge Mayor, Cllr Jim O’Shea, in attendance. He lives on the Repton Park estate and was very interested in the subject matter. The bucket for the Mayor’s charity raised £106-54 and this will go to The Alzheimer's Society (Redbridge Branch) and The Dream Factory. The Mayor said: “I was delighted with the number of people at the library on Saturday to listen to the three speakers about the history of Claybury. I learned much especially how things were run at the time the hospital existed. It left us feeling there was still much more to be learnt. I greatly appreciate the generous donation to my appeal.”

The three speakers gave fascinating talks but we didn’t get time for any question and answer session or for those connected with the Hospital to share their memories. There was just too much to cram into two hours but we did manage to get a cup of tea.

In the smaller room Tony Cranston was telling “Tales of Claybury Woods” to the youngsters, some of whom were not quite so young. Teenagers aren’t all hoodies. When asked they all said they enjoyed it. The book and CD are available from The Nature Conservation Team.

John Sharrock said: “I am indebted to the support of Ilford Historical Society and Barkingside 21 for organising this event and Redbridge Council for their sponsorship. After the cancellation of the Fun Day in the park intended for the previous Saturday there was no other event to which the public were invited and able to celebrate the historic importance of the official opening of Claybury Park.”