LEND FOR VICTORY!
There were many fundraising efforts during the war to raise money to help those in need, those who had been bombed out of their homes, had been widowed and orphaned, as well as to provide comforts for the fighting men and women, and for the war itself.
All the figures mentioned in Silver Linings for the Seaside Girls as to sums raised by the people of Grimsby and the surrounding area are the true amounts. Thinking of how tight money was and the shortages that were part of everyday life, it’s a phenomenal amount.
WARSHIPS WEEK
I write about Warships Week in the book, but the previous year (1941) the money raised was for War Weapons Week.
‘The target for War Weapons Week last May was £500,000, and they smashed that. They raised almost £770,000 in savings. It helps that the larger companies invest huge sums in bonds and savings certificates. £10,000, £25,000, well, that soon adds up, but let’s not forget the power of small change to make a difference.’
The WVS had set up street savings groups. People were issued with a small card and bought savings stamps for 6d. Once the card had been filled with thirty stamps, they received a savings certificate. It was one of many successful schemes and campaigns that rallied the nation to save, not spend.
Can old wounds heal in time to save the day?
Cleethorpes, 1941
Singer Jessie Delaney is back home after narrowly escaping the London Blitz with her life. Her confidence in tatters, she’s playing it safe; performing at the Café Dansant – hardly the future she dreamed of.
With husband Johnny Randolph serving overseas, Frances Randolph is busy juggling the business, motherhood and keeping West End star Ruby Randolph out of trouble. Much to Frances’s relief, the arrival of a handsome naval officer full of attractive and exciting ideas provides an earnest and timely distraction for Ruby. Could this spur Ruby on to new beginnings?
Young, talented amateur entertainer, Peggy Marshall has been left in the care of her feckless stepmother while her father serves on the dangerous Atlantic convoys. Performing is her escape, but as her star rises, danger lurks, and Peggy has nowhere to turn.
With everyone doing their bit, the Seaside Girls pool their talents to support the community and also their men at war. Will heartbreak and danger scupper their efforts – or will the show go on, no matter what…