Description:From 'Drake Hall - A War-Time Hostel', a souvenir book produced for staff and residents at the Swynnerton Royal Ordinance Factory hostel at Drake Hall, produced in 1945.
Mr J.H. Damms, Manager of Drake Hall. His introduction to the book and comments on his time at Drake Hall:
"In presenting this souvenir we do so with great pride, not only the pride associated with the actual production of the book, but pride in being able to record so many interesting events, in being able to chronicle herewith what you yourselves have accomplished, as witness the untiring efforts and tremendous enthusiasm of the Dramatic Society in producing the very excellent shows, revues, plays and pantomimes, which we all have from time to time so thoroughly enjoyed. We should like to acknowledge the hard work put in by Miss Sadie Macnamara and the Social Committees who have sacrificed countless hours of their spare time to act as usherettes, stage managers and the hundred and one jobs they have done "behind the scenes." The success of the choir which has charmed us on many occasions with their workmanlike performances, and here is a suitable opportunity to pay a tribute to the delightful personality of Mrs. Shillito, who gave her time and her talents, which together with her tireless energy and tremendous enthusiasm has brought the efforts of the choir to such a high standard. Then there is the sporting spirit displayed by the football, hockey, netball and cricket teams, not forgetting the W.V.S. Group, who have so cheerfully given their time to knit hundreds of comforts for the Forces, and in making warm clothing for Russian children and evacuees. We should like to say, "Thank you" to everybody, residents and staff alike, who, by their good common sense and general good humour have engendered and maintained during the last two and a half years such a happy and friendly atmosphere in the Hostel, and trust that this book will be a means, whereby, in the years to come, they will be able to "spring the lock on a store house of pleasant memories." Our thanks are due to Mr. Wimble, Secretary and General Manager of the W.T.A., whose wise guidance and timely advice has helped us so tremendously in the running of Drake Hall. We should also like to thank the Ministry of Supply (Housing and Welfare Section, S.S.10.) for the very excellent amenities they have provided for us and also for the kind consideration they have always shown for the residents and staff of Hostels in general, and Drake Hall in particular. We have, from time to time, drawn upon the very considerable resources of the factory to which we are attached, and our thanks are due to the Superintendent, Mr. H. Dawes Robinson, and his departmental chiefs, who have answered our calls for assistance with such aplomb. Lastly, we should like to place on record our sincere appreciation of the loyalty and close co-operation of our own senior staff — Mr. Morris, Mr. Bean, Miss Mitchell, Mr. Shepherd, Mrs. Steed, Mr. Pearce, Dr. Young and Sister Minshall, Miss Riding, Miss Rowley and the House Matrons, who have, without exception, proved themselves to be grand players in the "Drake Hall Orchestra." "