The Early Memories of Albert Douglas

The earliest memories of Bournemouth resident Albert Douglas take him back to the age of 5, growing up in his hometown of Hartlepool and playing British Bulldog in the street with his neighbourhood friends. Yesterday he recounted some of his childhood experiences from growing up in the 1930s.

The retired 77-year-old claims that the days when children's leisure time was filled with active games such as French cricket and football are long gone; "we used to stay out and run around until it was dark. Nowadays, kids just sit at their computers all night; it's not the same."

Alongside the games that still thrive on the school playground are some that time has forgotten - yet they remain cemented in Albert's memory. "Relievo" is one he particularly remembers: "It's a fast game, with lots of running about. One person runs after the rest and 'catches' them, whilst two others act as guards to stop the captured people getting away. Nobody plays it anymore though."

Mr Douglas hopes to pay his Hartlepool home a return visit soon with his wife of 60 years, Margaret Douglas. "I lived in that house until I was 20", he recalled, "I really enjoyed my time there."