Having been born in Boldmere in the 40’s, Wylde Green station has been, and still is, an important part of my life.

My parents didn’t own a car until I was 19 yrs old so public transport was used extensively.

Holidays were quite a challenge. Our luggage needed to be packed into a trunk two weeks before it was needed at our destination. An operation my mother took seriously as the five members of our family all had different requirements. The trunk was packed and labels applied with our destination address.

My father then placed the trunk onto the wheelbarrow and wheeled it to the station! One of us would accompany him to help balance the trunk. It was a fifteen minute walk. Once at the station the station master put it into the waiting room, where there was a secure area for luggage. He would then make sure that it was put onto the train. This all had to happen again on our return journey. Quite an undertaking as we has to survive a fortnight without our belongings. 

Another memory was of the wooden ticket offices, and waiting rooms which were located on both platforms. If I remember correctly the station manager would operate both by crossing the line to sell tickets. They had a working stove! We would wait in comfort on a wet or cold day. Many times I would be able to warm my gloves on the top of the stove. Unfortunately the ticket office was burnt down (not sure of date) and the new one installed where it is today.

Wylde Green station was always well-kept with hanging baskets and boxes of beautiful flowers. The station master made sure they were maintained and it won an award for his efforts. The corridor of silver birch trees also enhanced the appearance of the station.

I feel fortunate that we still have such a good local service.

Kay July 2021