Five-Year Diaries
During this period, both grandma and grandad used five-year diaries which they had started the previous year.
The Family Expands
During this period, mum and dad’s family expanded. I was born in 1960 and my brother Alan was born in 1962.
Moving to Norwich
Early in this period, we moved away from Kirkby to Norwich as dad had got a job with the Norwich Union there. Grandma and grandad also moved to Norfolk later in this period.
Weddings and a Baby Boom
A number of friends and family members got married during this period and many of those couples had children during this period.
Alan’s Diagnosis
Alan was very unwell during this period. He was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease which responded well to his starting a gluten-free diet.
From Trinity to Mile Cross
As part of our move from Kirkby to Norwich, we left Trinity Methodist Church and joined Mile Cross.
A Van and a Viva
Grandma stopped driving during this period. Mum and dad got their first vehicle, an Austin A35 van. In 1963, they replaced this with a Vauxhall Viva.
Entertainment in the Early 1960s
Entertainment in the early sixties included birthday and Christmas celebrations, visitors, board games, theatre visits, trips out and holidays, including to Lowestoft and Bacton. Our first Butlin’s holiday was during this period.
Tricia Starts School
My older sister started school during this period. Initially, she went to St Christopher’s and later to Kinsale Avenue.
Dad and the Norwich Union
As mentioned, the reason we moved to Norwich was because dad had a position as chief clerk with the Norwich Union.
Other Aspects of Life in the Early Sixties
Other aspects of life in the early sixties included music, technology and items purchased.
Practical Skills
Grandad used his practical skills to make, repair and maintain a wide variety of items during this period.
External Events
External events covered in the diaries included royal events, major world events, elections and various matters of national, regional and local interest.