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Frank and Nancy鈥檚 Story

Frank Rapper and Nancy Shaw were born and raised on Bradford's Ravenscliffe Estate, although they didn鈥檛 actually know each other at the time.

They were both aged three when war started in 1939. Most of their memories are of growing up in big families and playing with their friends. They were largely oblivious to the war going on around them.

Nancy's father was away for a few years during the conflict but returned home after he caught malaria. She remembers her mother bringing out the piano as the neighbours gathered for VE Day celebrations.

Frank's memories are a bit more vivid. He remembers the neighbours gathering to make their own decorations and a bonfire at the end of the street. The whole street gathered to provide what they could for the spread, using the little they had. He recalls the excitement that everyone felt and the anticipation of the men coming home and rationing being lifted.

Image: VE Day celebrations in Ravenscliffe Estate

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3 minutes

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