21. Petley, Miss Betty
4 Stretton Court, Bournemouth Rd., Parkstone, Dorset, BH14 0EX
Most of my nursing career was in either Somerset or Dorset…
During my training at Taunton I spent my off-duty with a friend at Bishop’s Lydeard, and was asked one memorable Saturday if I could help with a Guide Company, as the Guider had gone sick the evening before a special assembly at Bishop Fox’s School grounds to meet the Chief Guide, following her tour abroad in 1944 or 45.
I was delighted to assist but had no uniform with me, but I was soon lent some – with a Somerset County badge.
The CG spoke to so many lined up for this special occasion, and when she stopped in front of me I was so thrilled with her smile. Touching my shoulder, she said “Your County Motto?” - “Who’s a-feared” I quickly responded, then realized I was not back home in Dorset wearing my own uniform. Explanations were made, and I shall never forget the twinkling eyes, nor the response that was made by Miss Evelyn Pontifex (our Commissioner) when she heard of this episode . . .
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