'Back of the sheds' was a local term used for a small community in the Belle Vue area of Shrewsbury. Houses were originally built for engine drivers and firemen who worked for the LMS and GWR railway companies. Many of our local lads had been called up. In order to send them regular food parcels, sweets, cigarettes and money, it was decided to start the Back of the Sheds Social Committee. Both my parents were on the committee, which proved to be very successful, forming a focal point for the local community. The committee met regularly at the Mission Room (Church Hall), organising functions, the proceeds of which went towards the parcels. The Lowe family were very much involved in arranging shows. I particularly remember the 'Babes in the Wood' pantomime -- I was a gnome. It was such fun practising and mothers were busy making the outfits. All the money taken at the door was used for the troops' parcels. We became quite famous locally and other areas asked us to give them shows in their community centres. All the profit would go to their local boys at war. We had such fun. I remember having permission to go to school with my hair in rags to look pretty for the evening show. The Annual Fete brings back vivid memories. Fancy Dress was the order of the day. The most original idea was to make an outfit out of newspaper. My mother put me in as a 'Doll in