Gussage St Andrew, Dorset

Sixpenny Handley, The Roe Buck Inn

My ancester Edward Dutch built and ran this hotel after the village fire in 1892
- as recorded in the censuses of the time. Take a look at my family history at www.thedutchfamily.co.uk/h_dutch.htm

Alexander Charles Day

This photo is of my Grandfather, whom I have such lovely memories of. I understand that Grandad used to work with the heavy horses in the days before tractors, so for me this picture is a wonderful find. He was married to Gladys (nee Smith) who was not a local girl, originally a Londoner. They had 6 children, Edgar (Gary), who has recently passed away, was my father. Are we sure about the date of this photograph because I know that after the Second World War, the family moved into Salisbury, when Grandad worked in the saw mill.  I understand that, as a carpenter, Grandad was involved in building the pews for the church, and believe that he also played in a Silver Band.
If anyone is interested I have some information recorded in the form of a life history of my father's experiences as a young child in Sixpenny Handley during the Second World War, which I undertook whilst studying for a degree. It provides a wonderful insight to a child's view of the American GI's that gathered in the area prior to the D Day landings.  
I am planning to visit Sixpenny Handley soon and would love to hear from anyone who has knowledge of where the Day family lived in the village or any other information which would be helpful in giving my children and grandchildren an insight into thier family history.

Coombes of Church Farm

I believe my Great Grandparents Annie and Maurice (Frank) Coombes lived and farmed at Church Farm during the 1920s.  My father Thomas (Aubrey) Coombes used to spend most of his school holidays there as a boy. This was a very happy time in his life. Long summers helping his grandfather and being spoilt by grandmother Annie.  

When they gave up the farm, they moved a few doors down into The White House. Both are buried in the churchyard along with one of their sons who died as an infant.

Annie lived all her life in Sixpenny Handley where she was born, leaving only once to visit Salisbury for a day out!!

I am researching my family history, I understand that the Adams family in Handley are cousins of the Coombes.  Any information would be appreciated.

Does anyone remember the 'cheese making' competitions held in Handley in the 1930's and 40's.  My mother tells me a relative won the title for best cheese maker 3 years running.  Her name was Florence Lydford known as Flossie.  She was the daughter of Charlie Lydford and Florence nee Coombes Lydford.

The Village School

I was the Head Teacher of the Cranborne First School from 1974-1978. The school was situated just off the square. It was a delightful little school and I have happy memories of my time there with my two teachers: Mrs Barbara Bayes and Mrs Gawman (who succeeded me as Head). Lord Salisbury was the Chairman of our Governors and occasionally I had to go to the Manor to discuss business with him. It was quite an experience being led by the butler to the large upstairs lounge to have a cup of tea with His Lordship. He would attend our special school events if he could. I remember him - a quite large man - on one occasion coming straight from the 'shoot' for our annual concert and because he was last to arrive and we thought he wasn't coming, he was obliged to sit on the only chair left - one of the children's infant chairs!