WWII note from the Shurdington School log about Ullenwood ...

Account of the log of the old Primary School in Shurdington, which finally closed in 1980:

"A school garden was cultivated and given over to vegetable production. In November 1941 we learn: "Dinner cooked in the school - meat and four vegetables, pudding and custard - costs 3d. per day. All vegetables except potatoes from the school garden". Older boys were despatched when necessary to collect bean sticks. In August 1941, following an outbreak of scarlet fever, the school was thoroughly disinfected. Despite the upheaval pupils in the same month used their half-hundredweight allocation of sugar to make 200lbs of jam. They also pickled onions and vegetables, selling the fruits of their endeavours to raise funds for the war effort. The arrival of Uncle Sam at Ullenwood and local billets affected daily life in many ways. The log notes that on 24 January 1944 "Our annual collection for the blind has this year reached £7 10s thanks to the splendid help given by the American soldiers at the camp here". Following a short service conducted by the Vicar, VE Day in May 1945 – when bunting and decorations fluttered around the village - was celebrated with a two-day school holiday. A month later on 5 September, the Head writes: "The Japanese surrender was formally signed yesterday, six years ago today we declared war on Germany. So ends the Second World War." Out went the flags again in May 1953 when Queen Elizabeth II was crowned. "Village celebrations included three television sets being installed here. These were very much enjoyed until 11.30pm."