I am currently "custodian" of a cache of about 100 letters which were found in a tin deeds box in the attic during a house clearance. They were from a girlfriend (later wife) to her boyfriend (later husband). The couple were in their 20's during the period 1940 to c. 1950. Their origins were in Dorset, chiefly Dorchester. However, the letters were all posted from Exmouth in Devon. The writer was called Freda (Winifred) Jones and she wrote to Frank Cross. He lived in Dorchester at the time of the first letters, but when he joined the RAF , he moved around to various RAF stations but was at RAF Rufford, Yorks., for the longest period. He was in Signals. His parents eventually had a home in Worcester Park, Surrey, after leaving their bombed house in London. Freda and Frank eventually lived in Worcester Park, too. It was in that house that the collection of letters that Frank had saved was found. Sadly, letters from him to Freda do not appear to have survived. When the letters were found, enquiries were made as to who might have an interest in them. But no one came to light. The letters came to me because of my interest in Exmouth and its history. Freda writes about her life, helping an aunt run her house, which took "paying guests", and caring for her parents who lived nearby. Frank visited often pre-war and also many times when he got leave from duty. She comments often on the bombing in Exmouth and the raids in the area. She, along with her father, was a member of the Fire-Watch team. When Frank was demobbed, he returned to his career in the electrical power industry. I would like to hear from anyone who may have had anyone who might have known Freda and Frank. Only one photo was among the letters, and that of a group of women but there is no information on the reverse as to who was who. It is anticipated that the letters, with so much Exmouth content, will be placed in the safe-keeping of Exmouth Museum. Any information would be much appreciated.
