WASHI IN HOLYHEAD

by Shan Clarke
(Crewe)

Hi Wil

My father came from Anglesey and we made 3/4 visits a year to his parents and brothers and sister.

As the returning granddaughter I was probably spoilt rotten (well as much as the working class did in the early/mid 60s. We stayed in my grandparent's house in Cybi Cottage in Holyhead. My Nain was a wonderful generous no nonsense woman and Washi Bach always came to see on his Spring/ Summer rounds.

He'd come up the path and she'd say Washi 'your back again I see' and he'd say 'nice to see you Mrs Owen' He must have had a schedule. He's eat stew,cakes, lots of tea out of a 'billy can' and take some with him.

All the family knew him and would tease my Nain about her boyfriend.

It was just accepted that he would return for another visit either later in the week or on his next visit. No one seems to know anything about him and there was no judgement (even my grumpier Taid didn't comment) to use a newer phrase 'It was what it was'.

He was a bit gruff and to a child between 4 and 8, I knew he was a bit 'Different' but I never found him scary.

I HAVE REMEMBERED HIM ALL THESE YEARS.

Regards

Shan