VJ Day 1945  

VJ Day 1945 is a jewel of a memory. The Labour Government had been elected the previous month. My brother and I had fond memories of VE day celebrations that had been a rehearsal for the final victory. Both days were celebrated with great street parties in North Clive Street.   With no more bombs threatening to fall on us there was nothing to fear. Ten-year-olds were allowed great freedom unlike in   our present neurotic fearful times. It was entirely acceptable for us to stay out on the streets on this special occasion until midnight. A bonfire was lit on the junction of Penarth Road and Havelock Street in Grangetown. There was the excitement of a few fireworks-unobtainable in war. Soldiers from the barracks in Wood Street produced some spectacular rockets. Neighbours gathered around the bonfires and sang the familiar songs that everyone knew. The bonfire was about 10 feet from...