This is a short sample of one of the 20 plus stories that are shaping our volume of Stories from the Street about to be published out of the town of Leatherhead, Surrey. Written by those who would not normally have a voice, the book carries that edgy flavour. To place an order for this book click here. It will give you an idea of what might be possible in your town or city.

A Gypsy’s tale

Before we faced the struggle of our own I had not really appreciated what so many other traveller families have gone through and how hard it has been to try to make a home in a settled place. I’d listened to my father’s stories from his childhood days of what awful things he and his family had gone through, but I had never personally experienced the rejection and harassment. I had heard him recount his stories but until now not understood how difficult life had been for them. One story that sticks in my mind was the day my father, who was 11 at the time, his mother, and 15 brothers and sisters had stopped by the side of the road for a few hours so that his mother could cook Sunday lunch. The big black pot came out, the fire was lit and a great big stew was put on to boil. It was the highlight of their week. In my mind I can see the children playing around, asking, “Is it ready Mam?” and my Dad’s Mam bent over the big black pot stirring the stew with a huge iron spoon. I can imagine how their mouths would have been watering at the amazing smell of the meat and potatoes and herbs in the pot. But before they got to eat it the police came along and in no uncertain terms told them to move on. Dad’s Mam pleaded with them, “Please let me feed the children before we go.” But they kicked the fire out and deliberately kicked ashes from the fire into the pot. The dinner was ruined. My Dad, who was very upset, went for the officers and was very nearly arrested. Yet again they had to move on………………………..

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