There are a lot of younger people on Rosity but what are the memories of the older ones of past Christmas's.

It was always this time of the year when my granddad would say to my dad "Have the boy here at 7.30 sharp" There was no ifs or buts it was said in a tone of "Do it".My granddad was a man of few words.

But it was music to my ears as I knew it meant that my granddad was taking on a train ride to London to go to Selfridges and Gamages,two stores with massive toy departments.Selfridges was good but Gamages had the biggest electric train layout you ever saw and that was in my mind from the moment I knew we were going.The day would start with a mile walk to the local station during which granddad would tell me all about the fruit and veg he had grown that year. Goosgogs ( gooseberries ) were good this year lad he would say and ramble on about all the wines he had made that year,Elderberry,Stinging Nettle,Sloe,in fact virtually anything that nature produced would be made into wine.Although the train started above ground there was always a thrill when the train disappeared below ground into the London under ground.Then there was always the terrifying thought of the escalator,as I young boy I had a dread that as we got to the top I would disappear under the grill and held my breath as I prepared to take the huge leap ( about one foot ) to safety.Unknown to Granddad my Grandmother ( Nanner ) would slip five shillings into my hand as we left their home to buy a toy.Granddad would always let me choose one toy for Christmas and manners prevailed so one never chose the dearest.Another highlight of the day would be when he took me into "Lyons Tea Rooms" and we would have a meal.Of course the day wasn't complete until the train ride back.Wonderful memories of times gone by.I wonder how many kids these days will have such memories in years to come.

Do any of you guys and girls have memories of Christmas's past that bring back memories of loved ones or some exciting event as a child.