Front cover of April 2008 issue of
Croydon Life.
This fascinating colour photograph was captured in North End during 1945 with flags flying from Allders to celebrate VJ (Victory in Japan) Day on 15th August, a few days earlier. It was taken by Harold Bennett, a professional photographer who at the time was an RAF pilot with Transport Command and reportedly had returned from Canada with some colour film that was considered far superior to that available in the UK. Apparently, Harold took this image during the early afternoon while on his way to Wilson's Cafe for tea. Note that the number 42 tram still bears white paint on its fender from black-out days. The Whitgift Hospital/Alms Houses can be seen on the right.
Artwork design ŠKayve Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.