John Walker Horridge (1912 - 1996)

Jack Horridge joined the RAF in 1943 and was sent to Canada to train as a bomber crew member. These are the Air Graphs (A.G.) that were exchanged between him and his family across the Atlantic.

100132 sent ? AG No.2 received : 9.2.43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW ROOM. 5. HUT 48A. NO.31 RAF DEPOT, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA

I don't know whether you are receiving these AGs. alright or even if you can read them properly when you get them. Apparently we came through one of the worst storms they have had in this part of the world for years. It was queer to see the horse drawn sleighs on the roads. They carry no lights at night but have a row of bells strung on the harness over the horses back. The cars are all super-super and are taxed by weight not HP. You have to watch your step when crossing the road with the RH. rule. There are no pubs and if you buy intoxicants you must get a permit and only consume them at the house you state on the permit. The cinemas are very crude and no smoking is allowed in them. Although all newspapers and public notices are in English a lot of the people seem to talk in old time French. Please keep these AGs. and I will try to make them as interesting as possible. I would like you to write to me here though I don't know how long I shall be here. Lots of love to all, will write again soon. Jack

155125 Sent: 2.2.43 AG No.3 Received: 19.2.43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW ROOM 5 HUT 48A 1 SQUADRON 31 DEPOT RAF NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA

Dear Folks, I have not heard from you yet and am dying to know if you have heard from me yet I don't expect to get word yet but I would like to know that you had my cable. We have not started on our course yet but have talked to many who their wings and stripes up. I have been skating every day on some skates I got for $8. It is rolling country here and visibility is exceptional. There are plenty of pine woods but the trees are not very big. I notice an absence of birds (the flying kind) but a Canadian told me they all come back in the spring. The air is so dry that the heated sleeping quarters make our lips puffy in the morning and the first thing you want is a drink of water. "Lovely drying weather, Mother". Must close now. Lots of love to you all. Jack.

191492 sent 8.2.43 AG No.4 received 22.2.43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. NO.211. RAF. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, As you can see by my address I have moved and am now at the most crucial stage of my RAF career. I might leave this place as an AC/2, a sergeant or a P.O. We have been warned that the course is very stiff so I am going to get my back into it. Nevertheless I shall endeavour to send you an A.G. at least once a week. This town is built on the shores of the lake which looks just like the sea. Although they call it the Manchester of Canada it is very clean. We had an hour in Montreal at night and breakfast at Toronto but saw little of M and nothing of T. The camp is a good way from H. but buses take us right into town. I have heard nothing from you yet but am still hoping. I shall write you a long ordinary letter as these AGs are so cramped. Please try and write an AG once a week so that I shall know I still have a home. Lots of love, Jack.

482604 sent 15.2.43 AG No.1 received ? to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW from: 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Jack, (Letter received Feb 13/43)

Thanks for 2 Ags received. One Feb 6 and two Feb 10. Letter not received. AGs very legible and interesting. Picture painted in No2 is very different from what one would imagine. Bet you are thrilled. Grapes seem cheap enough. Weather here simply ghastly lately. Well wet. Expect I notice it more because I have to go out a lot just now. Father says golf course terrible. Both Mother and father are well. Mother taking Petrolagar and it seems to be suiting her. Sunsets been grand lately and as you know we get a good view here. Sorry been so long in writing but last two days through being in town. Alan's trip cancelled. Keep writing Love from all Mildred

307334 sent: 17.2.43 AG No.5 Received: 10-3-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear folks, I am still getting along OK and am in good health. The weather is very cold (-20˚F) and we have to look after our ears to save frost-bite. Bo - one of our gang and myself were invited out to tea last Sunday by a Hamilton jeweller. He also asked us to go next Sunday to dinner. They have a lovely house and a summer residence on the lake shore which they remove to every summer. That letter I promised you hasn't been posted yet but will be tomorrow. I haven't heard from you yet. We are getting on with the course and putting lots of extra time in. It is very interesting. The boy and girl at Lees (our hosts) have promised to take Bo and I ski-ing so we look like having some fun. They are very friendly and seem pleased to meet anyone from the Old Country. Of course they have refrigerators, central heating and all that. Love to all, not forgetting Ethel, Jack.

375784 Sent: 1.3.43 AG No.5 Received: 16-3-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear folks, Having a grand time. Went to Toronto for our long weekend (48hrs) and had a great time. We stayed at an hostel which was more like a hotel. We didn't have to get up till 1.0clock but managed to turn out at 11.00am. We had a good look round but I didn't manage to get to Scarborough as I intended. I started talking to a Canadian lad in the Army who is due for England soon so I gave him our address in case he should be near. We have been treated very well here and have an invitation to dinner at the Lees' again on Sunday. The YMCA in Toronto gave a free tea to Service men, sponsored by some Insurance Company. It was very nice as the stenographers helped to entertain us. Working very hard, don't know how I shall get through. Love to all - Jack.

Haven't heard from you yet - any time now. Jack.

773909 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, M.P.O. No.211. RAF., MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, STAFFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND Dated: 9.3.43 not postmarked

Dear Jack Many thanks for A.G. To us at Newcastle. we were very thrilled. I have been wanting to reply. This is from Gatley where I am staying while Cyril is at H.G. Camp,- till Friday. Mother, Father and I have just been eating delicious pancakes. I do hope you are getting better food than at C. Cyril expects to go to Peterboro' any time now, but I shall not go till after Easter at the earliest. It is some miles south of Alan. Neither of us us are keen but at least it should be clean, and we might be able to get somewhere really nice when the mess is over. Are these darn thing censored? I'll enquire before writing another. Maurice (introduced Cyril and I) was in Jersey and has now been interned at Biberach, Sth. Germany. His wife and child have been moved too but I don't know if they are all together. We have written to him. When we go to P. I shall probably get a job. We may go into digs. and store the stuff. but I can't decide anything till Cyril has been. Elsie is in hospital in Essex near to Hettie and Edgar who are looking after Malcolm. It is an internal operation for her, but not dangerous. Everyone is well here. Good luck with the course. Much love. Grace

438648 Sent: 10.3.43 AG No.7 Received: 25-3-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks,

I am getting a bit cheesed off now as I have still not heard from you. Do not panic though as I don't suppose it will be long now. Please write fairly often as there seems to be quite a number of snags in the postal service. I am having a fine time but find all this work a bit of a strain (don't laugh). We have done some flying and it has been great fun especially when we got lost in a snow storm. Dick has been in hospital for a week & one or two others have been off for a few days. it is not an epidemic as they have all suffered different ailments. If you could send your sizes in shoes I might be able to do something. I dreamed Mildred had been drowned at sea. I woke in a hell of a state. I would like to know what you would like me to bring home so let me know the worst and I will see what I can do. Give my love to all the folks & tell them the Canadians are the tops. All for now, Jack.

To: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE. M.P.O. 211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Mrs E. Tyler 45, Common Lane, Sheldon, Birmingham 26 England Sent: 10-3-43

Dear John, Many thanks for your airgraph received to-day. I am pleased to hear you are A.1 and getting good food. These last few days have been like summer here. Did you get the letter I sent to your home thanking you for the 10/-? Eric is expecting to go abroad any day now and it is quite definite. I am going on OK at work. Eileen still comes up to see me. I showed glaperofits(?) your airgraph and they all send you their kind regards and wish you the best of luck. I agree John Canada is a long way from Common Lane. The dear old joint still looks the same. My brother Norman goes away Thursday week. And our Dad is Warrant Officer now. Michael is getting a big boy now and talks quite sensible. I have to mind my ps and qs now as he picks everything up now. He sends Uncle John xxxx I must close now. Look after yourself and lots of luck. Write as often as you can. Cheerio. Wynne.

103867 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MRO No211 RAF MOUNT HOPE HAMILTON CANADA From: 38 High Grove Road Gatley Cheshire Sent: 11/3/34

Dear Jack. Hope you have received my other Ags. We are all well at home. Mother and Father are still quite cheerful. Now the nicer weather is on the way I hope to get mother out a bit. Went to Prestbury yesterday with Ethel. It was grand to be out on the bike again. I am going out a lot in the future. How are you getting on? Cecil sent an AG to your first address. My fault because I procrastinated. On the way back yesterday the Derbyshire hills looked blue. Had a lovely afternoon tea at the White Horse All my love Mildred

492516 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MRO No211 RAF MOUNT HOPE HAMILTON CANADA From: 38,High Grove Road, Gatley, Cheshire Sent: 15/3/43

Dear Jack. Your AG No5 received on March 10th Very pleased to know you are being entertained and are enjoying yourself. Hope that letter has been posted by now. We are looking forward to receiving it. Mother and Father are quite well and Mother is getting out a bit while we are having such nice weather. Grace has been with us for a week and while here sent an AG to you. We have had three weeks without rain which is marvellous. Sorry you haven't heard from us. Lots of AGs on the way and a letter from me. Had a ride in Cheshire yesterday. Beautiful day. Sun was quite hot. Love Mildred

969978 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MRO No211 RAF MOUNT HOPE HAMILTON CANADA From: 21, Glendene Avenue, Bramhall, Cheshire Postmarked: 16MAR1943

Dear Jack. We have been very pleased indeed to receive so much news from you. All very thrilling. What I am looking forward to is receiving the letter you have promised home. It should be quite interesting. - As Bill has already told you, we are both having a grand lazy holiday at The Savoy, Buxton, with trimmings which we both appreciate. - I am very restless at the office just now as all we older girls have been told we will be called up for National Service, so I am fully expecting munitions or some such horrible place, if it is only to sweep the floors. - Mother wasn't too well last week having queer pains, but she was quite cheerful again before we came away. Hope you haven't been frostbitten. The sun has been very kind until today, but now it is dull and threatening. Sorry I have no news of your Crumpsall pals, but will pass on anything I hear. Take care of yourself laddie and here's wishing you the best of luck. Your very loving sister Ethel.

464693 Sent: 16.3.43 AG No.8 Received: 27-3-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I received my first mail from home today in the shape of your AG.No.2. I was very bucked as you can well imagine. I will try and write another letter when I get some spare time. Went to dinner again at the Lees last Sunday and what a dinner. A huge leg of lamb. They have promised us a lot of trips to their summer house on the lake where they have a separate hut for their airman guests to call their own. They have a small boat & landing stage which they call a dock. I was talking to a woman in the cafe the other day who gave me an invitation to Muskoka. Everyone says "Muuskoka is alright in Summer". Flying over it looks B. awful in winter. People here are very fond of shredded raw vegetables which they serve at every meal. I have some fun with Mary-beth Lees who is always pulling my leg about England being behind the times. Love to all - Jack.

125922 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE M.P.O. No 211, R.A.F., MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Gatley sent: March 24th, 1943. A.G.4.

Dear Jack, I think this is A.G.4, but I am not at all sure. We received your A.G., I think it would be No. 6 or 7 We are very glad you are enjoying yourself and are looking forward to seeing the Canadian to whom you have given our address. Be sure we shall make him as much at home as we possibly can. Bill has just been over for a week's leave and he and Ethel spent a few days of it at Buxton. Apparently they did not do any walking at all but I suppose Ethel will be writing to tell you all about it. Alan has been for his Medical for the Forces and has passed Grade 1. I never thought he would, did you. I thought his eyesight would prevent him passing but his eyesight is nearly perfect with his glasses. He cannot go in the Air Force because they are not taking any men just now. I expect he will have to go in the P.B.I. I don't mind telling you he is not looking forward to it. If he is suitable he will be put in for a commission. Of course if he goes in as a technical man no doubt he will be able to qualify for a commission, because he does know his job. We are of course very disappointed because we are, for the first time for years, on decent money, and if he had gone to the Middle East, as he expected, we should have been on our feet at the end of the war. We received word last week that Aunty Jennie had passed away, so father decided as none of her relations would be at the funeral, that he ought to go down. After much walking about and looking worried, much talk about the expense and various digs by mother about father's family generally, on Thursday night, he finally left for Royston at 8 a.m. Friday morning. I came from Gatley on Monday afternoon and up to that time no word had been received from him. However he could not stay very long because he only took a pair of pyjamas. I am going home tonight, Wednesday, and I expect to find him back in the nest. Mother and I are getting on very well at present, I have taken over some cleaning for her each week and except for occassional outbursts on her part, we are the best of friends. We had a very nice letter from cousin Mabel a few weeks ago, in reply to one father wrote. Father told her all about you of course. Very pleased to hear that you are working hard and hope you get good results. I think the climate out there must suit you. your A.G.s sound so energetic, and not a bit like our Jackie. (Raspberry to you too). Well I cannot get any more on here Hope you have received some word from me by now. Love from us all to you. Mildred

to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE J.W. M.P.O. 211 MOUNT HOPE HAMILTON, ONTARIO CANADA from: 1523360 AC1 Owen W. A.A.Flight ROYAL AIR FORCE Mair, Stoke on Trent, sent: 24.3.43.

Dear Jack, Hope you'll be able to borrow a magnifying glass through which to read this. Ethel and I both wrote to you from Buxton, where we had been spending my 7 days leave, but we discovered when we got home that we had written to your transit camp address, and I wouldn't give much for the chances of their ever reaching you (There were two separate airgraphs). Things over here have changed very little since your departure. Buses stop running earlier and earlier, trains get fewer and more crowded, but we still manage to get about somehow. There was very little evidence of the war during the week we spent in Buxton. We've had a very mild winter, and a remarkably early spring, I suppose there are signs of it where you are by now. We none of us get any younger, father and mother particularly, though they keep pegging along. Father's sister (I've forgotten her name) at Royston passed away last week, and he went to the funeral. I believe he has not yet returned. These airgraphs hold a devil of a lot of type, and I don't quite know what else to talk about. The censor won't like service matters, and in any case you live in a very different world from me in that respect. I've seen all the airgraphs you have sent home. You seem to be getting on very well with the local population. Hope you won't get entangled with the female section of it, I think you ought to come back a free man - single I mean. You must feel horribly cut off, not having hear from anyone at home for such a time. Had we only known it sooner we could have written to you all the time you were in transit. I got all the gen officially a few days ago, when of course it was too late to be any use. I was round at Graces' last night. They had lost your address, but I gave it to them again, so you should be hearing from one or both of 'em. I feel that from the Air Force point of view we're now rather well matched, XXXX (that's me not the censor) You're in the department that flies the kites, and I'm in the one that shoots 'em down. Our lads have got light trigger fingers, so don't come flying over the Potteries in anything weird and wonderful from the west. Did not hear about Alan? He was all fixed to go eastwards working for Works and Bricks, but it was cancelled at the last minute, and he is now as good as in the Army. Cheerio, see you in Berlin, Bill

177446 To: LAC HORRIDGE J W ROOM 5 HUT 48A, 1 SQUADRON No31 R.A.F. DEPOT MONCTON N.B.[New Brunswick], CANADA From: 117 Hey's Road, Prestwick Manchester sent: 25.3.1943

Dear Jack, Just a few lines trusting you are keeping in the very best health. Well Jack I was very surprised to hear you had been posted abroad. I hadn't seen Mrs Schofield for weeks so she passed me your address. I hope you don't mind Jack I am sure you will appreciate a few lines from good old Blighty it is surprising how a few lines cheers one up especially in these dreary times. I have a brother abroad & he looks forward to some post have you done any ice skating yet I suppose you did a bit over here i think Ice skating is a grand hobby are you having decent food & good accomodation over there by Jove lets hope you are having better food than you did over here. The news doesn't seem very cheerful Just now of course we have to be prepared for these setbacks we can't expect to win every battle however things will come right soon hopes so in case please realise writing Jack I am on fire watch at the Hospital my friend & I are getting our correspondence done. I'll bet you wish you could slip home in the evening or weekends never mind Jack remember there are better days ahead well time is getting on & I nearly must finish I wish you the very best of luck& best wishes dont forget keep your chin up & keep smiling you will soon be sailing the seas again back to Blighty so bye bye Jack from Just a friend Doris

359573 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, J.W. ROOM5 HUT48A No1 SQUADRON 31 DEPOT ROYAL AIR FORCE NEW BRUNSWICK CANADA From: 1523360 AC1 Owen, W. AA Flight Royal Air Force Me? Stoke on Trent

Dear Jack, I'm afraid I'm not the kind of writer ideally suited to this medium, so goodness knows how you're going to read this. Also I don't know what to write about as I have no home news for you and the more service I get in - exactly 12 months now - the more I realise that between air crew and ground staff there is a great gulf fixed(?) . As you will guess from the above address I see quite a lot of Grace and Cyril these days, although as you've probably heard they are liable to move to Peterborough at any time. At present I'm enjoying a spot of well earned leave at the Savoy Hotel, Buxton. Ethel having gone on strike as regards housekeeping. I'm not quite so browned off with my job as I was at Lough Lane but I'm disappointed because in response to a pressing invitation I applied for a commission over three months ago and haven't yet heard a thing. However I'm liable to blossom forth as a corporal in the next week or so which might give a certain amount of satisfaction - You fly the kites we'll pass the ammunition - or shoot you down by mistake! Cheers, Bill

501074 Sent: 19.3.43 AG No.9 Received: 1-4-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I am trying an experiment with this AG and though you will probably have to get a magnifying glass to read it I shall get more on it. The weather is very changeable here which surprised me. One day it promises Spring & the next it is well below. My feelings towards the course vary from dispondency to a great urge for a brevvy and stripes. It is very hard going and so far I am not doing very well. I have done alright so far in the air but my ground subjects are weak. Bo and I hope to go to Lees again on Sunday provided we are not flying. We spend a most lazy day there. After dinner we sit around in lounge chairs in their sun room and watch the black squirrels. Perhaps Marybeth will decide to pop som corn so the three of us parade in the kitchen for the poppery over the electric cooker. They are very kind to us and make us most welcome. Well I must close - All the best. Jack.

181029 To: MPO 211, J HORRIDGE, MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO,CANADA From: MRS C WEALES, 265 WASH LANE, SOUTH YARDLEY, BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND postmarked: 26MR43

Dear John We have received Airgraphs and have forwarded them on to Sid, but as it will be such a long time before you can get a reply from him I decided to write you just to say how glad we were to hear of you & to know that you are getting on alright. We have had a few letters from Sid, but he hadn't had any of ours, we keep sending though. He will probably get them altogether I am giving you his address perhaps if you send direct he will get it quicker. All the best wishes from Brum and may we all soon meet again under happier circumstances Trooper S Weales, 5120119 56th Recconnaisance Regt, 9202 Coy N.I.CRU, B.N.A.F.

423964 To: 1576752 HORRIDGE. J. MPO 211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: E.M. SMART, 87, LUDLOW RD. ALUM ROCK, B'HAM 8 dated: 30.3.43 post mark: 1APR1943

Dear John, Yes your Ags. Are quite O.K. & readable. Well I havnt seen Wynn for a few weeks now, as I havnt felt at all well but I will go probably next weekend. The weather here has been lovely but to-night it is blowing like Old Harry. We havnt had any Air Raids. Well John I am pleased to tell you I have passed my First Aid Exam, and I have my uniform. Are there any more B'ham fellows with you? I will try & make your mouth water now, I am just going to eat a piece of hot cake (Home made). All the best. Eileen

616713 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE No211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Gatley dated: April 1/43 postmarked: 1 AP 43

Dear Jackie Received your AGs 8 and 9. They are coming through very well and not taking as long. No8 took 11 days and No9 took about 14 days. We envy you the good time you are having and the food. Glad you are working hard, stick at it. Father has been away a fortnight but is due back today. Mother has been a bit jealous And let me have it in consequence but it's all over now. Mother is keeping fighting fit as usual. Glad you have heard from us at last. Hope the others will come through very soon. Unfortunately I have no news of your other pals. I don't know if I should load myself up with things Jack Anyway please yourself(?). The Lees sound marvellous. Love from all Mildred

730604 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE No211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: 56 Clumber Avenue, Newcastle, Staffs. dated: 4-4-43 postmarked: 6 AP 43

Dear Jack Thank you very much for the A.G. Received 2/4/43. Sorry you are feeling so neglected and hope you have received my A.G sent from Gatley. It is very kind of Lees to ask you there. Our Peterborough business is still not settled and I hope it will fall through. We have recently heard from Mae's (you remember them). They are now back in their own London house, and seem very comfortable. We spent the weekend before last at Hartington hostel - cycled there, and came back via Dovedale. It was grand. Last weekend, plus two days leave, we stayed at Eric and Peggy's. They are both well and wish to be remembered to you. Ethel has been over this weekend and Bill has come up, of course. It is a pity about the radio in Canada. Some people would like your system to be commercialised but I say. "Heaven forbid!!" Cheerio for now lad. Much love. Grace In the room left, the head of establishment can say anything he likes. Why did we never go to the Lickey Hills when I was in B'rum. I've just had a week in camp at Blackwell near Bromsgrove and the country is great No more room Cyril.

994679 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE No211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Gatley A.G.No6 sent: April 8th 1942 postmarked: 8 AP 43

Dear Jack, This week we received your marvellous long letter. You really did excel yourself and it made very interesting reading. A.Gs certainly cramp one's style. I have found that I have written A.Gs to you and said nothing. I will write you another letter if possible this week. Father has returned from Cambridge and talked of nothing else since he got back. Bill is still in Staffordshire and Grace & C have not moved yet but will be doing soon. Haven't any news of your pals of course but think I will call and see Mrs Kershaw sometime so that I can send you some news. I am wondering if you have sent your address to Frank and think I will write to him and send copies of your A.Gs. Mother and father are quite well. We had a great gale yesterday. Blew down a mill chimney at Middleton. Alan still at Lincoln. Hope you are still working. You are certainly having a most wonderful experience. Hope you are now receiving my A.Gs regularly. Love from all Mildred

567237 sent 29.3.43 AG No.10 received 9-4-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I was overjoyed to get Mildred's letter on the 16/22 February. It was just the kind I like. It arrived on 26 March postmark 25th Feb. I am going to attempt a reply letter after this and will send them off at the same time as an experiment. I am glad my AGs are arriving but have a suspicion I skipped a few numbers so don't worry if you are some short at the beginning. We have had a great week end and find it hard to settle down again. It was our first week-end off for a month so we made whoopee. Lees took us to their summer house on Sunday & Bo & I were so thrilled to think that we may spend a few week ends there before we leave No.33 Air Navigation School - Mount Hope. I will tell you more in my letter if I do not fall asleep writing it. Love Jack.

682660 Sent: 10.4.43 AG No.11 received 22-4-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I have hardly the energy to write but feel I must not break the chain of AGs. I am still on the course but for how long I cannot say. Don't think I am not caring or bothering much because I am putting in all I know. We flew yesterday 8.0pm till 11.0pm then 9.0am this morning till noon & are now on again at midnight after an afternoon of classes. We were all looking forward to an afternoon off but were bitterly disappointed. Gosh I never worked so hard in all my life. Beleive me, our trade deserves all they pay. Had a tooth filled yesterday. Hope every one is well. No mail this week. I'll bet Spring is well established at home. There isn't a bud showing here yet but the days are warm. love to all and spare a bit for the garden Jack.

743717 Sent: 16.4.43 AG No.12 received 29-4-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, Don't all faint because I have some good news for you. I have passed my mid-term exam although I was very near the bottom. I have a letter half written for you which gets bits added to it every night I can keep awake. I feel much more cheerful now as results in weekly tests are showing a marked improvement. It has been snowing again today and we went to break in a positive blizzard. I saw the Aurora Borealis last week for the first time in my life. Boy was I thrilled. I hope you can read this OK. I'll bet the Old Man fishes the magnifying glass out of the machine draw & moans like fun over modern "improvements".??!! I haven't had any mail from you for over a week but trust there is some sneaking over the Atlantic. There had better be or 'else'. Dick has a bad throat again & has gone into hospital in Hamilton. Harry is still in dock in Toronto and out of nine of us from C. there are only 5 left. I am going to work like a nigger to the end of this course as I think I may possibly make it. Mind you we get no encouragement at all. You just get the stuff thrown at you & either it goes in or you go off the course - pouff! just like that. Well I must pack up now. Thank Ethel & Bill for me for their AGs from Buxton. I will write them later. Love to all & keep your chin up Mother. How's the golf course Dad. Wet again! huf! Your perservering offspring. Jack.

982907 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE No211 M.P.O. RAF, MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Gatley, Cheshire A.G. 7 sent: April 24th 1934 postmarked: 24 AP 43

Dear Jack, Sorry I missed writing you last week and this one should have gone on Thursday instead of Saturday, but you see we have been all messed up because Alan went in the army a week last Thursday. It was rather sudden, even though we were expecting it but antway he's gone now and that means another worry we have had since 1939 is over. Sorry you are having to work so hard but dont't think it will kill you. Can you tell me if my typed A.G. was readable? I am full of a cold at the moment. Mother has had one also but managed to keep upwith it. I am busy in the garden. Cheshire looks simply marvellous. All that beatiful light fresh green that is so lovely. There is nothing in the garden but it looks radiant. We have a big unruly clump of wallflowers, yellow and red. Simply lovely. Love Mildred

768873 Sent: 20.4.43 AG No.13 Received: 08-5-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I have just had Mildred's AG. in which she mentions Auntie Jennie. I was sorry too because I was rather fond of her. I hope Father has not gone on the loose in Royston. You never know what these young chaps get up to when they are away from home. Well I've done my best for him, he can't blame me if he eventually goes to the bow wows. When Bo and I were in town on Saturday a woman came up to us and asked is if we knew Deal as she originated there. She said she had been here 36 years but was still homesick for lovely green England. She gave us her address and told us to look her up sometime. We are having our first fog today but it’s got nothing on ours back home. Went to Lees again on Sunday but had to leave early for flying. No spring here makes me think a lot about England now I'll bet it looks great. We are expecting a break next week-end for Easter and may get to Buffalo U.S.A. We would try New York or Chicago but it is a long way for such a short holiday. Well I must pop-off & do some more. Thanks for keeping the mail going Mildred. Love to all, Jack

247901 to: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE, No211 M.P.D. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, (Please note>)STAFFS. Dated: 27.4.43 postmarked : ?

Dear Jack, Sorry to have left such a long interval again. We heard from Ethel, who was here this weekend, that you have sent a long letter to Gatley, and I am looking forward to reading it when we next go over. Your A.G.'s are most interesting; it is good of you to send us any at all. Don't let the studying get you down. It must be pretty tough, but never mind, it will all help to make a man of you. We are still unsettled about going to Peterborough, but I think, and hope that it is all off. Sad to say, we sold the fruit trees and bushes, and Cyril has parted with his allotment so it is all rather a mess. Maria is likely to add to the cat tribe before long. We had an awful time when she was being courted. Even water failed to discourage her swains. Nature in the raw!! Bill is being moved to Gainsborough in Lincs. this week. Rather a blow for Ethel, as it will be further from M/er. So long for now. All the best. Love, Grace.

802176 Sent: 26.4.43 received ? to: 1523360 A.C.I Owen. W., A.A. FLIGHT, RAF MAIR, STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Bill, I received both your Ags within a day or two of each other. I also got Ethel's. The postal system is OK as I have had letters from Arizona and Africa which have chased me through two stations in England. We have just had another fall of snow which is now lying quite thickly. I was sorry to hear of Auntie Jennies death. I had a soft spot for her. This course is the stiffest I have known, it is one continuous bind. I hope to be home sometime between now and Christmas. The countryside isn't half so varied as England as it goes on for miles and miles of just rolling country.There are plenty of windy rivers and there is also an area of small lakes and islands north of here which are the happy hunting ground of campers (in the summer). We go over many places with familiar names like Stroud, London, Paris, Exeter & the like but find that sort of geaography confusing. London is still on the Thames but parisgets a bit mixed up. It is good fun but you have to work very fast. Well Bill I must finish now, hope you can read it. Jack.

799222 Sent: 26.4.43 AG No.14 Received: 10-5-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I missed my weekly AG to you as we had a 48 and decided to go to U.S.A. for the week end. I wanted to go to New York or Chicago but the others fought shy of the journey. Finally we arrived at Detroit which is the fourth U.S. city. We booked a room in an hotel as we couldn't get through to Chicago. I wrote you from there a short horrible line. The United Services Organization in America (U.S.O.) put us on to the hotel and at the hotel they had an Anzac Club which gave us an address to go to. We arrived at Mrs Mc Alpine's and were immediately (or so it seemed) set upon to peel spuds and slice runner beans for our dinner. By the time the dinner was ready I was quite at home. We argued from the time we arrived to the time we left about who were better Americans or British. It was great fun and we parted on the best of terms. I slept on a camp bed. We saw all the skyscrapers & negroes & took bags of snaps. We also went all round the Ford plant (outside). We ate peaches grown across the road & bottled by Mrs Mac. There daughter Nellie goes to Wayne University in Detroit. Mr. worked at the Ford and almost lived there. Easter is a great occasion as everyone goes to church on Easter Sunday & Mrs Mac. told us it wasn't considered decent to go out without something new on. It was terribly hot on Saturday but dull and raining on Sunday. Lovely sunshine here today. Grass is turning green at last. Lots of love, Jack. xxx.

326138 to: 1576752 HORRIDGE. J. 211. MPO. RAF. MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: MISS. E. SMART. 87. LULOW RD. BIRMINGHAM. 8. Dated: 27TH April 1943 postmarked : 29 AP 43

Dear John, Thanks for A.G. 12/4/43. I hope you had a nice Easter. I went to the Lickeys Easter Monday, the weather was quite nice. I like the way you said you walked to Hamilton and got a lift in a blokes car, actually speaking did you walk. We had a bit of the old excitment we used to have last Friday up B. (Bordesley) Green. Quite near again (I hope you know what I mean?) Last Saturday Mom and another 20 stone woman killed a rat outside our back. have you heard from Wynne? You told me she was a funny watsit & I am just beginning to believe you. Don't write & say anything, she may be funny. Cheerio. Eileen

821607 Sent: 28.4.43 AG No.15 Received: 12-5-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, Thanks for your letters and your many AG of which No.6 has just arrived. I am glad my first letter has arrived at last there is another on the way and I am in the middle of writing one now. When you get the one with the magazine in the kite on the front is the kind we fly in. The large city I mentioned with the Aurora borealis was Detroit. I am getting a good collection of snaps and we are also allowed to keep our photographs taken in flight by RAF cameras. One of our chaps brought a news paper cutting from New York suggesting that Britain and other European countries should voluntarilly become States of the USA. and thatit would be specially easy for Australia as she must realise by now that Britain is unable to protect her any longer. This shook us rather as the writer is thought well of across the border. We found the Americans easy to get on with as we could chaff them about how they won the last war. They chaffed us so we finished 50/50. The streets were lined with the stars and stripes and the Union Jack waved from Windsor to the Stars and Stripes on the top of the Detroit Skyscrapers. There were lots of coloured peoplein Detroit and one dark damseltook my eye & I had to use all my self controlto refrain from laughing at her as we passed.The streets were full of private cars & the papers were full of what America is doing in the war. When you get this I shall be in the throwes of exams which last about a fortnight. The trees are not out yet but some bulbs round the camp are shooting up.I would like a peep at England now. Had AG from Grace, will reply soon. Love to all, Jack.

324932 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO No 211 RAF MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley, Cheshire Dated: Apr 28/43 postmarked : 29 AP 43 AG No8

Dear Jack, I posted a letter to you this week. Hope you get it soon I said I was enclosing a letter that has come to Gatley for you but I forgot it. Will send it this week if possible. We have had some more very windy weather but the Spring has come very early after a mild winter. One of the apple trees has got some blossom on but the other hasn't any on at all. We were very pleased to receive your A.G. today. You sound very pleased with yourself and we congratulate you most heartily on the hard work you have put in. It will cheer you on your way. At the moment Alan is busy on a preliminary training course and apparently is filling in his time digging trenches, cleaning equipment, drilling, etc. I don't think it pleases him overmuch but its just one of those things that have to be. Father and mother are well and now my cold has almost disappeared. Bill will be moved to somewhere near Grimsby soon so Ethel will be annoyed. Love from us all Mildred.

908941 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO 211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley Dated: May 5/43 postmarked : 7 MY 43 AG No10

Dear Jack, We were very bucked to receive your letter, also copy of the 'Meteor'. I will reply by letter in detail. My word things will seem flat for you here when you return. Your A.G. 10 posted at the same time arrived on April 29, so I think you are wrong in your assumption. The A.G's do travel much faster than letters. Hope you have heard again from me by now. Sorry about the break. What a comparison between the weather here and what you are having. Everything is beautiful just now. All the Primulas are out and almost over. The primroses have been a mass of bloom. My pansies (or are they violas) are lovely this year but I want some yellow ones for contrast. Those I have are a deep purple. I haven't seen the bluebells but I hope to do so this week end. I am feeling much better just now. Mother is quite bright and father is well. He's just gone out to golf. Love from us all Mildred

811496 to:1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO No211 RAF., MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: Mrs Pollard 38 High Grove Road Gatley Cheshire A.G.1O. sent: Gatley,. May 19th , 1943.

Dear Jack, I am sorry to say this A.G. is late again. I don't know what the reason is this time really. Maybe it is because I sent you a letter last week and the effort was too much for me. Anyway I apologise humbly.. Of course I expect you will remember my life always was scramble. I am feeling much better now and more cheerful too, because Alan has been over for two nights in order to attend the Schleifer case. Actually it was settled out of court but I had not time to let Alan know. We are having a lovely spot of weather just now and the garden is a picture. The lilac is out, the broom is lovely, the laburnum is also lovely and when I walk down from Cheadle Hulme pictures last Friday, I wanted to weep it was so lovely. The scent of all the blossoms, with hawthorn predominating, was beautiful and combined with a perfect sunset and the pathos of a feeling loneliness, well what a perfect combination. On Saturday afternoon we got a wire saying Cyril and Grace would arrive about 7 that night. We were overjoyed and when I came in after seeing Florence on the bus we had one of our grand talking sessions. A good time was had by all. I have been trying to evade being directed into industry and C. & G solemnly warned me that I would be in jail if I continued in my wicked ways, which I know is perfectly true but I must have a break first before I lay into another job. The worry of taking a job has apparently quite upset Grace and she seems to have got a bit run down. She has been to the Doctor and will be able to keep out of a job until she is fit again. The Peterborough business has also upset her out or her rut a bit but apparently they are not likely to go now. Of course as you know Grace is inclined to turn her thoughts inward too much and I suppose she ought to have had some family, that would have stopped her doing it. Sunday was our usual day when we have the family. We spent it in talks and meals. Serious conversation going on in the kitchen and another serious one going on in the dining room and somebody else making a valiant effort to get the next meal ready in the or the last washing up done. Cyril or course spent his day gardening and chopped a tree down that was fouling the Bramley. It was a lovely day. Alan enjoyed his week end and looked very well although he had a bad cold. He says they have a nice lot of fellows. Love from us all. Mildred.

220291 To: 1576752 HORRIDGE. J.W. MPO No211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: 87 LUDLOW RD. ALUM ROCK. BIRMINGHAM 8. sent: 24th MAY 1943 postmarked: 27 MY 43

Dear John, Believe me I hope you pass your course, as I passed my F.A. exam. I am sorry to hear about that fellow being drownd. It has been mighty cold & raining to-day, but we have had some warm weather. Well which country do you like? Well I am still batting away on the jolly old Elliott Fisher. Well don't you think we have done well in Africa, it is really good news isn't it? Our Lily's baby is getting lovely she is 6 1/2 months old, (beautiful like me hm) Cheerio. Eileen

933242 sent 8.5.43 AG No.16 received 24-5-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Part I Dear Folks, The letter I was writing has suffered a relapse and I am afraid if it reaches you at all it will be so weak that you will not enjoy reading it. Bo & I had an awful shock last week when we arrived at the Lees. Mr Lees showed us in and I noticed he looked a bit seedy. Then he told us the awful news that Bob, their only son had been drowned in Lake Ontario the previous Wednesday. Poor Mrs Lees was in bed but fighting hard to overcome her grief. Marybeth too was having a hard struggle. They were a most happy and contented household with all of this worlds goods they needed & then this happens. He was out in a boat for the first time this year and it capsized throwing he and his pal into the water. Though they were good swimmers the water was so cold that they were numbed & drowned before anyone could reach them. (continued on part II)

Part II (continued from part I) I felt like crying myself and suggested that we left them but Mr Lees said he wanted to carry on as usual to try and forget. Bob was 18 and was due to enlist in the Navy. I had a letter from Sid Weales yesterday and he seems content enough (or was in February) Your last A.G. No.7. 24/4/43. cheered me no end, especially the bit about the garden. Well we start our final exams next week and I am afraid you won't hear much from me for a while. I am in a very precarious position and you must be prepared to hear of my failure. I shall have to go as a W/OP. AG. if I fail as there are no other vacancies. It is going much warmer now and buds are appearing on the trees. we have been issued with summer kit, khaki slacks & tunics (RAF pattern) Khaki shirts etc. Red cloth badges adorn same and it really looks quite smart. We are not wearing them yet. Well I must close, love to all, Jack xxx

984746 sent 13.5.43 AG No.17 received 28-5-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I still haven't finished my letter to you and I cannot see it being done this week as we are up to the eyes in exams which determine whether we wear 3 stripes or lose our props. I must warn you that we may not come home fromhere but may go off to the other end of the World. I did want to come home but there we are. It has made me a bit homesick - funny isn't it to be wanting your Mother at my age. I would love to come home, just for a few days. I don't seem to have had any mail for a while but I suppose it will come with a rush when it does come. Did I tell you Spring had arrived? Well it has and the transfiguration has made a world of difference. Canada is naturally not as civilised looking as England but it looks more like the Old Country now. Lees are just about getting over the worst of their terrible shock but Mrs Lees looks much the worse for wear. I wonder if you could make enquires about sending me newspapers occasionally. A Manchester Guardian (Daily) would be nice about once a week or once a month. Always wanting something aren't I. Lots of love, Jack.

694433 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, J.W No211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: W.C WEALES 265 WASH LANE SOUTH YARDLEY BIRMINGHAM sent: 17/5/43 postmarked: ?

Dear John. In an air mail received from Sydney today. He writes that he has received your Airgraphs, but that the Airgraphs he intended to send to you was refused by the A.P.O on the grounds that there was not a service to Canada. He has sent a letter to you Sid is O.K and seems cheerful. We are all O.K here. I have an Allotment near Home on the Recreation Ground. It is dug and nearly all of it planted. Wife wishes to be remembered to you. We miss you both very much. Yours fraternally W.C. Weales C. Squadron 46 Peace(?) Regt.

996578 To: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE. M.P.O. 211. R.A.F. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: L/STO: S. KERSHAW, 103579, MESS. 2. H.M.S. "COLUMBO", C/O G.P.O. LONDON sent: 26.5.43 postmarked: MARITIME POST OFFICE (date illegible)

Dear Jack, Well how's the old body? looking in Canada! you lucky people. I am writing this in reply to an Airgraph of yours dated 1st August '42 - been chasing me around the world and caught me last week. As you will see from the address I am afloat again - have been for some time - and have stepped up my rating. I can't tell you where I am but the weather is grand and its a lovely evening. I haven't been home for a while but things are going along alright and mother seems to be settling down now. It's hard lines that I have to be away after loosing Dad. I haven't had word from Wal for some time altho' I have written, of course he is always dilatory at fisting a pen, but I have a 'suspish' that he is making himself a nuisance in a foreign clime at last. If I get his address I'll let you have it. I'm a bit out of touch for other news but imagine it is much the same. Well I expect rou're having yourself a time over there, fill your boots while you have the chance. I think that's all for now, so keep your end up my lad! Cheerio you boose hound, Your Pal Syd.

480301 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO 211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley Dated: May 29/43 postmarked : 29MY 43 AG No11

Dear Jack, First of all let me say how very sorry we are to hear of the Lees sad loss. It certainly must have been terribly upsetting to Mr & Mrs Lees and the daughter. Please tell them how sorry we all are. It seems almost inconceivable but to them it will be only too real. I suppose their son was quite used to handling a boat which makes it worse. I hope Mrs Lees is feeling better. Re your course. I don't think I 'd worry if I were you. From what you say you have been working harder than you have ever worked in your life and if you don't pass after that well it's obvious it was too stiff for you. We all hope you will pass but if you don't well why worry. We have just received your AG telling us the exams are on but when you receive this one probably you will know the results. Mother has a touch of Bronchitis at the moment but is not in bed. Alan has been posted to Chester - Royal Engineers for further training so I hope to see something of him. Will write another of these tomorrow if poss. Love Mildred.

376676 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO 211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley Dated: May 29/43 postmarked : 7 MY 43 AG No12

Dear Jack, Just another short A.G. Fancy you being homesick. Don't be. Its not worth it. Yes I will send you some papers now and again. Alan is now a Sapper. What has surveying to do with a Sapper in the Royal Engineers. I had hoped to see him today but he's not as keen to get home as you always were. Today we are having some sports on the field and it is a marvellous day for it. Remarkable isn't it! Air cadets, Army Cadets, Girl Guides and Scouts and then they are having a march past. Father is busy somewhere round the pond. Its been a lovely week but rather a cold wind. The Photographic Society have had lantern lectures all week and an Anual Exhibition, grand photographs and grand slides. You would have liked it. Cecil also went to some of them. Well I'll have to go and catch the shops. have to go up to Bramhall for Ethel's meat. Love Mildred XXXXX

247901 to: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE, M.P.O.211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, STAFFS. Dated: 30.5.43 postmarked : 31 MY 43

Dear Jack, We are always struck dumb with the neatness of your A.G.'s. I hate to confess that I have left another gap since my last to you which was 27.4.43. As you see, we are still here, and likely to remain. Cyril went to Leicester last Monday, expecting to stay for two months, but as they propose to cut his billeting allowance, he will probably ask to return immediately. He did come home last Thursday to sing in "The Music Makers" by Elgar with the Ceramic City Choir which he joined during the winter. Malcolm Sargent conducted and the orchestra was the Liverpool Philharmonic. Cyril was very thrilled and I enjoyed the whole concert. It would have done you good to hear the choir sing a special arrangement of "Rule Britannia", fit to fill the roof, though I considered it tempting providence!! "Britons never, never, etc.", Glad to hear you are still on the course. It must be rather nerve racking. We were home for the weekend a fortnight ago - by tandem. i spent half Sunday afternoon reading your letters. They were grand. You were looking so fit - and lean on the snap that I could not pick you out at first. i think I shall have to write you a letter because I've not said half of what I wanted to say. More good luck with the course. Up the Horridges. Cheerio, love, Grace.

217313 sent 7-6-43 AG No.19 received 22-6-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, I am in a deadful state at the moment as I have just heard I have passed my final plot which means that I am all set for my Wings Parade on Wednesday. Can you believe it, because I can't and won't until I actually get it pinned on. I will write you again when I know for certain. I shan't be coming home straight away as we have some more training to do in Canada - you will learn where later on. Christmas should see me in England or perhaps a couple of months from now. I hope so anyway. The next course is pretty stiff I believe but if I have my wing to back me up I feel confident of getting through. I will write you a proper letter in a day or two to make up for the long break in my letter correspondence. I may send you a cable in which case you will get this later. Your loving son and brother, Jack xxx

290389 sent 15-6-43 AG No.? received 25-6-43 to: Horridge, 38 High Grove Road Gatley, Cheshire, England from 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, JW M.P.O. 211. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA

Dear Folks, Well I have had another disappointment in hearing that I have been switched over to Air Bomber and have to take a course on bombing now. I was only told the day before the Wings Parade and it is very hard to swallow such a bitter pill. The other chaps are all strutting round with brevvies(?) on just as I would have done if I had been in their shoes. Everyone has been most sympathetic and I have an excellent report from the instructors saying how dilligently I have worked. This as you can guess is poor consolation but I am doing my best to re-adjust my ideas and ambitions. It seems as though eveything I really set my heart on and try hard for goes for a 'burton'. I had a letter from Sid Weales in Africa and it was written in close proximity to the Tunisian front line in April. I do hope he is OK now. I am very sorry I sent that last A.G. and would have done anything to get it back.

687599 To: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE J.W. 211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE HAMILTON, ONTARIO CANADA From: 1523360 LAC Owen W. A.A.FLIGHT. R.A.F. KIRTON - LINDSEY GAINSBORO' LINCS sent: 3.6.43. no date stamp

Dear Jack, You A.G dated 26.4.43 only reached me a few days ago, partly owing to change of address. Incidentally the above address is now out of date but I don't know my new one yet. At present I am on embarkation leave (16 days with 4 still to come). We spent 7 of them at Bangor in N.Wales and explored Anglesey on bikes in perfect weather. My new address is in Herefordshire but of course it won't be for long and my future movements are problematical. I've seen your latest A.Gs to Gatley and can well appreciate your feelings at the prospect of not returning home on completion of training. Perhaps we shall meet in Tokyo instead of Berlin! Service life has been pretty good lately except that I've spent an awful lot of time travelling. Apart from the move from Meir(?) to Lincolnshire I've been home twice and had two trips to London all in the last six weeks. This A.G. is instead of Mildred's usual Thursday effort (I wonder(?)!) If you feel moved to reply to this please use the Gatley address. It seems to be the most permanent one in the present state of flux. Yours etc(?). Bill

813789 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO No211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley Cheshire Dated: June 9/43 postmarked : 10 JU 43 AG 13

Dear Jack, We haven't heard from you for about a week but I suppose you are busy. We are not worrying about you and please don't write if you are busy. The course comes first every time. Have written you a letter today but I suppose it will reach you in six weeks. My husband had to go to Ripon for a trade test as a military (?)man but did not pass as he had not had had enough experience of big jobs. He is now back at Chester but he doesn't care for Chester. I was in town on Sunday but apparently they had a real family gathering. Auntie Edith came and Cecil turned up. Perhaps it was as well I didn't come home. Auntie Edith has taken another job at Flixton. She is now working for a widower and his grown up son. She found the house was very dirty and mice(?) but she is well paid and taken out on a Saturday night by the widower. Is there a wedding about do you think? All our love Mildred

--2030 To: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE J.W. No.211 M.P.O. MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA From: Tpr S. Weales - C Squadron - 46 Recec(?) Regt - BNAF sent: ? date stamped: 13 JU 43

Dear Jack, We have been advised that there is now an Airgraph Service to Canada, so I am taking the first opportunity to write. You would love it here, where we have been stationed for two weeks or so. We are within 50 yds of the sea and you could hardly find a better place for bathing. The sea is often as smooth as a lake and we are favoured with blue skies and brilliant sunshine. I have learned to swim - a little. I have been tp XXXXX(censored) four times and have been to most of the canteens and places of entertainment, which are few as yet. There's not enough room here to give you my impressions of the place. I have a new nephew now and his name is David. He is Win's second. I hope you are feeling fit and fine. Best wishes, Sidney

833493 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE. J.W MPO 211 MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: 38 High Grove Road, Gatley, Cheshire Dated: 21.6.43 postmarked : none

Hello Jack. Mildred has gone to Edale for a week's holiday so I am writing in her place this week. I am quite well (touch wood) & carry on with golf and with the garden in the evenings. The old garden looks much the same as it always did. the trees are getting too big so we have cut down about four and there are still too many. Mother is not too well and hardly ever goes out owing to the trouble of trying to walk. She looks much older but otherwise seems all right. Perhaps when she has had a holiday away from the house and housekeeping she may be better. Last week was Whitweek. Haymaking is in full swing in the fields beyond the school grounds. Bill Owen has spent a leave with us also Ethel. We managed the food question very well. In fact the supply of food question very well. In fact the supply of food is quite good when you consider everything. Trust you manage to pass your tests. Cheerio Happy Days FATHER

523572 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE MPO No211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE. HAMILTON. ONTARIO. CANADA from: Gatley dated: June 22/43 postmarked : 30 JU 43 AG No15

Dear Jack, Got home on Saturday to read your jubilant A.G and then your heartrending one. That may sound a flippant way of putting it but it isn't meant that way. I hope by now that you have recovered somewhat. I assume that there is something in all these disappointments for you to learn and only you can decide what that is. After what has happened to me in the last few years I have had a tendency to think I am a most unlucky person, and that is rediculous. There is one thing about the whole disappointing business as far as you are concerned and that is, you aimed very high. Taking it by and large you can afford to come down a bit, but I am very interested to know why at first you thought you had passed and all the details of why you had to remuster, and what status a bomber has. If you have time please tell us all about it. Glad you are trying to readjust your ideas. Its very hard to have to do it but one always has to bow to the inevitable. Have just had a marvellous week at Edale as per my last AG and am now feeling fighting fit physically & spiritually. Love Mildred XXXX

19961 to: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE, No 211 M.P.O., MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, STAFFS. Dated: 22.6.43 postmarked : 23 JU 43

Dear Jack, We are in the throes of Wings for Victory week. At the centre there doesn't seem to be time to breathe. I have, sad to say, not got my Group Target, which was 20 times the average weekly takings. The Whit weekend was most unsuccessful. We rode to Clee Hill on the Sat. and stayed at the Hostel. On Sun., we rode by Ludlow to Craven Arms and then to Church Stretton and over the Long Mynd to a Hostel called Bridges. There were George and Peggy, Cyril and I, and two other girls. We came home by Shrewsbury. The country is lovely down there. On Saturday, I hope to join Cyril in Leicester and stay the two weeks till he comes home. I was very sorry indeed to hear of the sad loss sustained by Lees in the loss of their son. It is a terrible thing. I am feeling much better now - in the pink. How are you getting on? I do hope things are going well with you. About ten days ago I posted some copies of the Guardian and two "Listeners", and hope they arrive soon. Well, this seems to be all for now. Cheerio, Much love, Grace

32389 to: 1576752 L.A.C. HORRIDGE, MPO No 211 RAF, MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: Edale Dated: 24.6.43 postmarked : 24 JU 43 AG No 14

Dear Jack I am writing a letter to you from this place where I am having a week with Florence. The weather is grand and in fact everything is super. I should very much like to live here and am wondering whether to pull some strings and wangle a job here. I find I could do it easily. There is plenty of opportunity for a worker. Of course Edale has appealed to me for many years and each time I come I like it better. It is a very homely peaceful village and of course the scenery is perfect. We are bath very sunburnt. Hope you are still enjoying yourself and have passed your course. I am looking forward to reading an AG which will have arrived from you while I have been away. Love Mildred

709550 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, M.P.O. No. 211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, STAFFS. Dated: 4.7.43 postmarked : 4 JY 43

709550 to: 1576752 LAC HORRIDGE, M.P.O. No. 211 MOUNT HOPE, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA from: 56 CLUMBER AVENUE, NEWCASTLE, STAFFS. Dated: 4.7.43 postmarked : 4 JY 43

Dear Jack, That address is not really correct because I have been here at Leicester since last Sat. and will be here for another week. (Cyril has been here for six weeks and we go back home together.) I am having a very good holiday. Yesterday (Sat.) we went by bus to Charnwood Forest and had a lovely walk, complete with farmhouse tea. Cyril has been working today on aerodrome sites near Market Harboro'