The van

 Some of John's compensation for his accident was used to purchase a vehicle to transport the family around.  It was a commercial van adapted with rear windows, a footwell and bench-seat in the back. We were one of only 4 families in Cranbrook Road to own a car.      At first Rachael did all the driving because although John had learned to drive army vehicles during the war he did not hold a driving licence..  Rachael had rediscovered her wings!  The van would allow regular days out to big open spaces such as Shirley Hills and Coombe Gardens, Farthing Downs and Reigate Heath as well as driving up to Scotland.