Doris
Born in Lowestoft, Suffolk in July 1920, Doris has cherished memories of living with her lovely Grandma who had been widowed in the First World War.
Doris’s first job was at The Hatfield Hotel in Lowestoft at the age of 14 and while it was hard work, these were fond times and Doris remembers enjoying her role, as well as good colleagues such as the hotel manager Mr Henderson.
Doris has always loved cycling and recalls the day she went with her Dad to buy her first bike with her own money…
This interview was recorded outside and so some background noise is present. Being a centenarian, Doris appreciated some support in recalling certain details and the period up to the 1930s holds particular value in Doris's memories.
Doris in 1944, age 24
Doris, age 18 in 1938
Being the most easterly point in Great Britain, Lowestoft became the closest part of the country to the enemy in WWII and a strong Naval presence grew in the town. Doris’s Mum gave lodgings to sailors who were posted locally at HMS Europa (also known as “Sparrows Nest”).
Photo: HMS Europa, Lowestoft | Lowestoft War Memorial Museum collection, used under licence
Doris at 100 years old
Doris age 16
Doris in 1941, age 21
Doris has fond memories of her first job at The Hatfield Hotel on Lowestoft seafront from the age of 14 in 1934. The morning was spent as a chamber maid before changing outfits to serve the guests in the restaurant. Doris remembers going with her Dad to Lowestoft High Street to get her first bicycle.
Doris (right) age 8, with her Mum and siblings
Doris has lovely memories of living with her Grandma Harriet, who was a widow from the First World War.
Doris aged 2 with her Mum at 15 Love Road, Lowestoft, which still exists
Lowestoft’s Yacht Basin in 1929 - A few minutes walk from where Doris would start work 5 years later at the Hatfield Hotel on the seafront.