Terry Allen shares a detailed account of life in Marizion, recounting various businesses and notable individuals that were part of the community. He starts with Shrapnel’s Garage, owned by a German man named Shrapnel, whose family invented shrapnel used in bombs during wartime. The garage was a key spot for charging accumulators for radios. Across the road, there was a small gift shop where trinkets like seagulls perched on rocks were sold. Terry also recalls Mr. Bamber, who introduced the first Meccano set to the Marizion School, which was placed under the care of Gerald Ivey, the town’s blacksmith.
Terry continues to describe the businesses and services in the area, from Mrs. Miner’s grocery shop to the local pub. He highlights the contributions of local tradespeople. He mentions the “pound,” where straying cattle were held until a fine was paid, and the old schoolhouse, which later became private residences. Terry also recalls how milk was delivered door-to-door by Jack Bennett, who used a pony and trap, and the humorous incident when the pony startled and spilled milk.
As Terry paints a picture of Marizion’s bustling community, he recounts the local fair, held every 29th of September, where gypsies and traders gathered. He also shares memories of other local shops, like the bakery run by the Truscott family, and the cobbler, who repaired boots. The narrative reflects on the close-knit, hardworking community and how trades and businesses were integral to daily life, adding a sense of nostalgia for times past.
