Schoolchildren from both the Island and the mainland were able to experience what it was like at the start of World War II when they took part in this year’s evacuee event.
Held at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Havenstreet, the event was organised by Estelle Baker of the Isle of Wight Heritage Service based at the Guildhall in Newport and a team of volunteers.
Everyone dressed in 1940s style and the children were able to experience classroom lessons, air raid warnings and food rationing as well as having the chance to play with period toys and games.
Wartime recipes were on the menu included Lord Woolton Pie, which was introduced by Lord Woolton, the Minister of Food between 1940 and 1943 under the Neville Chamberlain and Winston Churchill governments. This pie consists of a selection of vegetables cooked under a pastry or mashed potato topping.
Sweet rationing was also explained, with the children discovering that 1 sweet per day was usual.
1 group attending came from the Caroline Chisholm School, Northampton and this event formed part of a week’s educational visit to the Island.
In addition to the activities the children and teachers enjoyed a ride on a steam train- a new experience for most.
