Blue HIlls

By Clifford Shepherd

The Bridge family is about to face their toughest test in generations.

 

One they may not all survive. Albert Bridge's love story with Gloria begins on a high note, but fate has different plans when duty calls him away from his bride. As he finds himself thrust into the chaos of the Pacific theater during WWII, their enduring bond is put to the test. Gloria, a resilient young bride, learns to navigate life's complexities with her newborn by her side. As days turn into years, the hope of reuniting with Albert begins to dim. Yet, their family's story is not one of despair; it's a tale of persistence, love, and the ability to find joy in the smallest of moments.

 

"Blue Hills" follows the Bridges through the war-torn days to the vibrant era of the 1950s. While love may face its share of trials, and the shadows of a criminal underworld loom, the heart of this family beats strong. With laughter as their armor and unity as their shield, they demonstrate that no matter how daunting the odds, family bonds can conquer all.  "Blue Hills" is a reminder that even the faintest glimmer of humor and the warmth of togetherness can pierce through, the bleakest of times.

 

Join the Bridges on a journey that promises to touch your heart and leave you with a renewed appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Clifford Shepherd
• Release date: Nov 28, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223486770

Clifford Shepherd

Welcome to the literary world of Clifford Shepherd, a passionate writer whose journey begins with his debut novel "Blue Hills" This marks the inception of a remarkable saga that will take readers on a captivating adventure, spanning from the past to the present day. Clifford's love for the written word has been a lifelong affair, but it was a pivotal moment during a long walk with his eldest son, Cyrus, that gave him the nudge to put pen to paper. "Just do it," his son urged, and one year later, Clifford proudly presents his first book to the world. While crafting compelling stories, Clifford also manages a demanding day job as a senior analyst – a testament to the dedication of many indie authors who balance their creative pursuits with professional careers. Beyond his writing, Clifford's interests extend to video editing, creating podcasts, and hosting a weekly radio show on Salford City Radio FM. Join Clifford Shepherd on his literary voyage, as he combines his diverse talents and passion for storytelling to bring you engaging narratives that will stand the test of time.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Icould start like many works of literature as in It was the best of times. It was the worst of times... But that would not be the best use of your time.

Before I get to where I am, it is best that you will learn where I came from; my family, the most important aspect of life; my gods when growing up, my heartaches, my strength, my foundation. This is a tale that could be told by many all over the world.

What makes mine interesting? Well, I will leave that to you to find out.

Now where would I start?

Let us start at the holiest of places. No, not the pub, but a quaint church which stood between the shadows of the mills that dotted the Salford landscape, surrounded by the working-class families’ homes that populated the area, St Paul's church in Salford, Manchester.

Despite not being a particularly religious family, we always felt a strong connection to St. Paul's. A place to share in each other's joys and sorrows.

On that day, the 13th of March 1940, Albert Bridge age eighteen was stood at the altar awaiting his bride to be, Gloria.

From the look of Albert’s huge frame of more than six-foot two, broad shoulders and a ready smile, you would be mistaken to think that there was little that could rattle this man’s cage. But on this particular day, few had so much running through their head, like a hunting dog chasing a rabbit, as he did. He had only one day leave from the army, to be married to his pregnant girlfriend, and by tomorrow afternoon he had to be in a place called Kent, which all he knew about was that it was somewhere past London.

War was well and truly here, and who knew where he would be in a few months’ time.

Their marriage was a shotgun wedding, a consequence of Gloria's unexpected pregnancy. Albert knew it was the right thing to do. Proud people, Salfordians, had their heads held high, and Albert knew he had to be the man and take responsibility.

He looked at the closed doors at the back of the church, then directed his gaze at Reverend Perkins, who gave him a reassuring wink.

His father stood beside him as his best man, as most of his friends have already enlisted and joined the war.

Dutch courage, son? His father handed over a flask.

Dad, bloody hell, it is only ten o'clock in the morning.

"Don't take the lord's name in vain, ya in the house of God''.

His father took a swig from the hip flask and messed up doing the sign of the cross on his chest. Albert shook his head.

He had a short moment of reflection that seemed like ages while he stood waiting. Noises came from others in the church, chatting amongst themselves, but the silence of the absent men was echoing between the walls.

Especially Gloria's brothers, his future brothers in law. You could describe them as rough, or just say that smart dogs crossed the street when these two walked down it.

Gloria’s gentle heart came from her father, he thought, and as to her brothers’ nature - that came from their mother, who ruled her house and many other establishments with an iron fist or a swinging broom. And swung it did, that broom, when Albert went to tell her that Gloria was pregnant with his child. Still to this day people are talking cheerfully about her running after him with a broom along the street.

It was important for their parents that the wedding would take place in the church, and that everyone knew that the Lord, wherever he was at the time, embraced their marriage. I imagine that he was a little busy with the troubles abroad, to even cast an eye over a pregnant young mother-to-be and her suited and booted husband, dressed in his uniform. Albert did say afterwards that it looked better than the only suit he ever had.

Gloria arrived, with her father, Tony, walking with her. She clung on to her dad, as she had done many times growing up, bolstered by his large frame and even larger heart. They walked slowly down the aisle towards a waiting Albert.

Reverend Father Perkins leaned towards Albert.

Here she is, Albert. Are you ready?

Albert turned and saw his bride walking and smiling, looking beautiful with a dress, which the girls in the parachute factory had pulled together and made for her. In this white silky gown and with their baby slightly showing, but only to those who knew, she was perfect to Albert's eyes. He turned back to Reverend Perkins and simply said I best be ready. If not, I ain’t getting out of here alive.

Father Perkins nodded.

Each step felt like a milestone to Gloria. She was swept up by the splendour of the church and by the presence of the people around. She knew most of them. She looked at Albert, who had just turned to face Father Perkins.

With a baby on the way and a future beloved husband waiting, it felt like a wish coming true. She took a few more steps, walking slowly. She felt her dad shudder as he had been scanning the people that sat waiting. She did not think about the reason for his reaction but squeezed his arm to reassure him that he was the best.

All were looking their way.

A bag dropped suddenly into the aisle ahead of her. Without hesitation Gloria bent down and picked it up. An old lady was looking at her horrified by her clumsiness. Gloria handed the bag back to her and said Thank you for coming. Thank you for celebrating with us.

The lady embarrassed answered I’m sorry; those clumsy old hands of mine....  

Gloria leant forward to her saying I’m nervous too. Don't you worry. You have made my day by coming. Gloria held the lady’s hand for a moment.

She knew not who she was, but she was here. She was her guest.

The small gesture made her feel for the first time today that her happiness might be deserved.

The lady smiled as if an angel had touched her, she was glad that she decided to come to this wedding rather than to queue up at the butchers.

Tony had always called his daughter Glorious. She was a gift from heaven, he would say to all. Tony was immensely proud as he walked his daughter down the aisle. He knew Albert well enough to think that he would make Gloria happy, and not only because Albert’s father, Harold, was his favourite drinking partner.

As Tony passed Gloria's hand over to Albert, he said You take care of her, you hear? 

Albert nodded, not taking his eyes off Gloria’s, and missing altogether his father handing over the hip flask to Tony.

Tony walked to his seat swigging a shot and pocketing the flask.

The ceremony did not last long, as many people were tying the knot, before the men were taken away. Father Perkins had three more to do on that day.

As they left the church, they could see a lady sitting at the back bench alone.

Those around her assumed that she must be a relative unknown to them.

She sat quiet taking everything in, and once the ceremony finished, she did not join the rabble, but rather walked away, not speaking, and not making a scene, disappearing into the streets.

The other guests headed towards a bus, parked outside, ready to take them to The Red Dragon Pub. This pub was a local institution, run by a landlord that was held in high regard in the community.

As they climbed aboard the bus, Albert caught a glimpse of his sister Barbara behind the wheel.

Come on, get on all; quick; before they realise that I am late at the depot Barbara winked at Albert and Gloria as all got on.

The bus had ‘mysteriously’ broken down and remained stranded right outside the church for half an hour, conveniently. The regular passengers grumbled and complained, wondering when they were going to get moving.

Are we moving yet? a person shouted from the back at the same time that Gloria’s mother got on the bus and said authoritatively: who said that? We move when we move!  No one answered back.

Albert could not help but smile as he looked around at his family and friends, all gathered to celebrate his wedding. He sat with his wife, holding hands.

We did it, love Albert said looking handsome in his uniform.

We sure did, and no punch ups yet from anyone.

Night is still young. Me dad is already half cut.

They both laughed and watched Barbara manoeuvring the bus.

Before long, after dropping off a few passengers along the way, they arrived at Salford’s Crescent Pub. They walked in and joined other guests that were waiting at the venue. The landlord had laid on a few sandwiches, and people who came to the wedding brought a few more, whatever they could spare from their rations.

The room was decorated with streamers and balloons, and a local was sat at the piano playing a few tunes to keep the party going. Harold, Albert's father, tried to play the piano but after singing an unsavoury song about sailors, his wife dragged him off to rapturous applause.

Lily, Albert’s mother came over to the couple I'm proud as a peacock for you and Gloria. while you are gone, she has your room, and we will look after her. And here, take this... and before you say anything, it is better in your pocket than ya dad spending it on beer.

She gave him a small envelope, containing some money, not much, but Albert knew that it was the most that she could afford.

Tony stood up on a chair and beckoned all to be quiet.

"Hey up, everyone! Can I have a minute of your time? I want to say summat about this special day and the lad of the hour, my new son-in-law, Albert...

First and foremost, I'm over the moon to welcome Albert into our family. He is a great lad, and I know that he'll treat my Gloria right. Albert's dad and I go way back, and it is a real honour to have his son as part of our family. It is a shame that our lads ain’t here to see, but they will come home soon along with all the others who gone off to the war."

Sure, they will echoed Hilda, his wife and Gloria’s mum.

So, as I welcome Albert into our family, I want to give him a big thank you. I know he's off to fight for our country, and that takes a rare bit of courage. But I also know he's a good'un, and he'll make us all proud. So, here is to Albert, my new son-in-law, give ‘em hell, son, and get back soon.

All cheered and had an additional excuse for more beer.

Harold stood up. Lily tried to pull him back down. There was a sway in the way he stood up and all eyes were looking at him.

Harold pointed at Tony.

My friend, my friends all of ya, happy as a punch I am. The wedding was great and our Albert, my only son, you have grown up lad... Harold looked at Albert.

Happy for both of ya. You have my hand and my heart Harold picked up his pint spilling a little as he lifted it high Raise ya glasses, to the beautiful couple Gloria and Albert.

All did as they were told and Harold flopped himself down, expecting a scolding from Lily, but she leant over and kissed his cheek to which Harold let out a red cheeky Yay! 

All laughed.

Albert stood up and tapped his glass for all to be silent. Silence descended, especially after his mother-in-law shouted for all to be quiet.

Firstly, I'd like to say to all who came, thank you. We all know that at any moment those damn air raids could go off, but by the sound of it, Adolf fears spoiling our party today.... 

But seriously, I'm off tomorrow and not sure when I will be back, so, I am going to take Mrs Gloria Bridge now!

Please stay and enjoy your time and big thanks to Eddie, the best Landlord in Salford and the only one that puts up with me dad. Goodbye all...

Albert took Gloria's hand as she stood up and added One last toast to my beautiful wife, Gloria Bridge.

Albert and Gloria escaped the rabble for the short walk to Mr Hammond’s unoccupied flat above his fish & chip shop. Everyone called him Mr. Haddock for obvious reasons...

As they sat in the small flat, a romantic serenade by Glen Miller played from the radio. Albert took Gloria's hand and led her to the centre of the room. They swayed together, lost in each other's arms, as the music filled the air. It was a simple moment, but it was one that they would cherish forever.

I wish this moment could last forever Albert said, his deep voice filled with emotion. I know that it sounds corny, but I’m no liar, love.

I wish that too, Gloria replied smiling, resting her head on his chest. We have to make the most of what time we have.

They danced in silence for a few more moments before Albert spoke up again. I can't help, but wonder, what your brothers will do when they get back from the war. Also, I bet that our party is still in a full swing...

Gloria laughed. "Oh no doubt about that... why not? No air raid siren tonight, just your dad and mine singing, knowing them.

Both my brothers like you. You might be yin and yang, but you get on well."

I know, I know Albert said with a smile, slightly confused. I don’t know who yin and yangy are, though.

Laughing You don’t need to worry, my husband Gloria replied, her voice full of warmth. I will write all the time to you and send pictures as well.

I will do the same. I am not best at the writing malarkey, but I will be writing.

As the song ended, they held each other close, not wanting to let go. They knew what was coming; Albert had to leave for the war the next day, and they only had this one night. They had to make the most of it, to love each other fiercely, and to hold onto the hope that they would be together again.

Not to put too fine a point, but they weren’t playing scrabble on their last night together until who knows when.

Albert stayed awake most of the night. The small single bed wasn’t big enough just for him, let alone for two people, but he lay there as Gloria slept. Even chuckling to himself as Gloria’s snored due to deep sleep and the couple of drinks, she had that day.

There was light outside when Gloria eventually opened her eyes.

Good morning, love she said with a sleepy smile.

Good morning, Albert replied, pulling her close. I didn't want to wake you. I was too busy listening to you snore.

Gloria pretended to hit him I do not snore, Albert Bridge.

I need to get up, love. The train leaves Victoria Station in a few hours Albert kissed Gloria and swung out of bed.

I've been up thinking about names for our kids, Albert said with a smile. I know it might be a bit early, but I can't help it.

Gloria laughed. Well, firstly KIDS I haven’t had the first one yet...  But I often do the same. I’ve always liked the name Emily for a girl, and William for a boy. What do you think?

I love them, Albert replied, feeling a sense of happiness wash over him. And who knows, when I’m back we may have more.

Where do you think you'll end up? Gloria asked.

I'm not sure, Albert replied, But the papers say that the war may be over by Christmas. Maybe I'll be back before we know it.

Gloria nodded, but they both knew that anything could happen. They held each other close, not wanting to let go.

As the time came for Albert to leave, they embraced one last longing time. Albert walked to the door saying See ya later, Mrs Bridge. Love you.

As he left, Gloria walked to the window and watched him as he made his way down the street.

He turned back, his large bag over his broad shoulders. He smiled.

In his eyes even at this distance, she could see his sorrow.

Both waved. Gloria's eyes filled with tears as she realised that she might not see him again for a long time. But they both held onto the hope that they would be together again, someday, somehow.

CHAPTER 2

A ll Aboard - The small stout ticket conductor shouted.

The hustle and bustle of Victoria train station was awash with people, the majority wearing uniform and carrying kit bags. Loved ones were waving them off or sending and catching one last kiss before the train depart.

Albert had said all his goodbyes.

Now he was pushing through the crowd to get into one of the carriages. Lucky for Albert his size helped, and he was able to see an opening in the already overcrowded train.

Last call for London. All aboard.

Albert hadn't found a seat, so using his kit bag, he slumped down on the floor near the door. A time of reflection. So much had gone on over the last few days and he had no real time to sleep.

To get a picture of Albert, tall with broad shoulders and muscular build. His hair was a mix of blonde and ginger, with the ginger parts more noticeable, when he hadn't shaved. His blue eyes sparkled with a cheeky smile that his mother often spoke about. He had arms that could envelope you comfortably, and it was easy to see why Gloria had fallen for him.

But there was something more to Albert than just his appearance. He had an edge to him that set him apart from the other lads at the pub on a Saturday night. He saw the good in people, and it was evident in the way he treated everyone he met. He was a gentle giant, a term that suited him well.

Growing up with three sisters and a drunk father had made Albert more sensitive to the needs of others. He hardly touched beer, even when his mates started drinking at the age of 15. He had heard his sisters' stories of heartbreaks and difficult men, and it had made him more empathetic.

Lily, his mother, was especially close to him. When he told her that his girlfriend Gloria was pregnant, she didn't get angry. Instead, she invited them both to stay with her.

Lily was worried when Albert received his call up papers.

Everyone in the area had received theirs and Albert's was late. She had prayed that he wouldn't be taken away.

God, though, as we established already, during World War II must have been on holiday, as no way on earth any God would have allowed what went on at that time.

Albert awoke from his daydream dozing with a start.

A book had landed on his lap.

Sorry, mate. Sorry, I have nowhere to sit and dropped my book. Arthur, a fellow squaddie, was holding his kit bag in one hand, looking flustered, standing above the sleeping Albert.

Albert handed him the book No problem, mate. Here I will move a little. Crash ya stuff next to mine and park yourself down here.

Arthur took the opportunity and sat, and what stood out for Albert was that he was the first black man he had ever seen.

I’m Arthur. He put his hand out to shake.

Albert They shook hands.

Here, what's with the book? Is it the Bible?

I have a copy of the good book too, but this is a collection of stories of Mark Twain. Have you read his stuff? Arthur was showing Albert the book.

No, not heard of him but hey, we have a lot of time here, so why not read us one. Our Ju, sorry that's me sister, she loves books. Got a whole shelf in her room. Where you from? Did you get on in Macclesfield? I forget how many stops have gone.

No, I got on at Victoria. I am from Didsbury, South Manchester. But couldn't find a place all along the train. I’ve been in and out of carriages. Well, least not many wanted me sat with them... Arthur raised his eyebrows.

Well, bugger them, Arthur, my son, as I get to hear Mark Twan’s adventures....

Mark Twain Arthur corrected him, laughing.

Mark Twain, yep, read on; it be like having me own radio.

Read he did, story after story as Albert shared his flask of tea and biscuits. Hours passed by and, as the journey, having to stop many times, took twice as long as usual, they got to know each other. Arthur was not married but had a girl waiting for him. He was surprised to hear that Albert would have a readymade family waiting for him when he got home.

Bloody hell, you move fast, Albert. Good one, ya, she looks a belle.  Pictures shared and stories of Harold's antics made Arthur laugh.

You know what, Arthur, you're the first coloured man I have ever met. You don’t get many from near me, but that probably my fault for not venturing out more Albert said, straight to the point.

Well, there's not many in Didsbury either, and some folk not too happy with our family about. Arthur's hint of racism wasn't missed by Albert, who knew what he was talking about having heard many offhand remarks around.

Sod 'em, you are no different than me, other than a good tan Albert joked with his new mate.

After many hours, the train rolled into London. Bloody big this London, ain't it, Arthur? Albert peered out of the window as it passed many houses and landscape of the capital city.

It is mate, but least you are big enough to see the views over people. Arthur remarked.

The train stopped and they all disembarked. Arthur and Albert stood for a moment knowing their lives were different in many ways, but same in many others.

Here, Albert, take my book.

I got nowt to give you, mate Albert reluctantly held the Mark Twain book.

You gave me a seat on the train... They shook hands for farewell and Albert thought this is what war is going to be like; meeting and making friends who then disappear.

Moving through London, Albert witnessed the destruction of the great city landscape. He had written to Gloria later saying that he was sure he saw princess Elizabeth as there was a lot of activity around this beautiful lady and also described how London was full of different people.

Eventually Albert found his way to the training barracks in Kent. Kent was bustling and people were travelling in and out daily. He quickly got into the routine and wrote to Gloria as much as he could. As he could not remember surnames, he gave his mates nicknames. For example, Barry who shared the bunk bed was Scouser Baz, then there was Brummy Barry, and Barry the Bastard who was a nice man, but who, as Albert put it in the letter Stunk so bad that we could drop him over the enemy lines as a bomb, but he has a good heart under the stink.

What they do drum into you whilst in barracks is the routine and more routine, so much so that days quickly blend into weeks. Conscripts did get the odd newspaper, and all would read out loud in the barracks about the bombings up north and in the other parts of the UK.

Albert, like, the rest would not be only thinking of where they were going to end up, but if one of those bombs would drop on a loved one. Sometimes they did, one young lad just turned eighteen, Jason, one day had a visit from Sergeant Rentworthy. Something quiet was said and he was taken away. Poor bastard had lost his mum and dad in a bombing blitz on the East End of London. Tension was high and you could tell when there was more in the air than Barry the Bastard.

Soon they got their orders they would be taking a ship to Singapore.

Singapore, Albert Scouser Baz shouted.

Oh, yes, as long as its hotter than Germany, I am happy. Heard that it’s bloody wetter than Manchester there.

Defo; sun, sea, sand, and ladies. It's an easy ride, mate. They don’t see any action. We just go and get a suntan Scouser Baz was loving it.

We’ll see. I’d swap it any day to take me Gloria to Blackpool, though. It's gonna be a long journey on that ship Albert was leaving, like all, with a mixed feeling of excitement and fear.

Albert wrote a letter to Gloria about where he was going, explaining that he would be spending many weeks at sea as they travelled and telling her to try not to worry.

A few days later all packed and all set out on transporter vehicles to Dover. Albert had been used to seeing ships in the Salford dock yards, but he had never seen so many military naval ships. Personnel, vehicles, tanks, artillery, and rovers were being driven into the cargo holdings of these immense steel constructions.

Quite amazing that it keeps afloat Barry the Bastard said what they all were thinking.

It was like stepping onto a floating city. The multitude of heavy moving parts, small corridors crowded with navy, army and varied military service men. Albert took a week and so did most men just absorbing the size of it, continuing the rigorous regime of keeping fit and assisting in the naval work. As the armada of ships moved through the waters, sky would be awash with stars on a clear night.

Just look at it all, Barry. Bloody beautiful, ain’t it?  Albert stood on the top port side looking out on a cool night. The ship was passing Africa and the weather changed from stormy and rain to mild warm. Word was around that Singapore would be hot and humid.

Albert, the moon looks great. Hard to think of our men fighting somewhere Barry was a fellow northerner, well, anything north of Watford, to most southerners, would be considered north. But Yorkshire was a high point, that was Barry's home.

Yeah, fighting for land, fighting for justice, fighting for peace, they say. Next, we will be fighting for the moon. Oh, bloody hell, Barry, just as it was getting romantic you drop one of ya bastards. Come on, let’s get back down below and you best leave that stink here Albert patted Barry on the back as they made their way down into the claustrophobic quarters.

Albert slept, deeper than ever, must have been the fresh air, but awakened in a panic.

Everybody up; up on deck. Now. There is a fire to be put out Sergeant Lane shouted.

Without saying anything all the men ran out some with vests on, some without. On the deck, a fire was raging in the artillery section. Fighter planes were flying over and targeting the armada with guns and cannons. That was the loudest thing Albert had ever heard. He was surprised that he hadn’t heard anything down below. By the looks of it, the others hadn’t either. Shots and burst of flames were reaching to the sky. The blooms of black smoke were so thick that they blocked out the moon. The roar was so loud, that many men's ears bled at the constant thumping and heavy clatter.

Y ou two help on the deck with the hose; get that fire out A naval officer shouted to Albert. The hoses blasting on the burnt-out cannons put out the flames.

What seemed like an age passed.

Tired and exhausted, the men were relieved when the German planes flew off. Two of the armada ships had been hit and subsequently sunk.

The sun was starting to rise on a new day. Blackened from the heat and soot the men cleaned and re-armoured the weaponry, helping the sailors in their duties.

Hope that's the last of them before we get there Albert said to whoever wanted to listen.

It was due to the clear night; the clearer the night the easier it is for them. The moon lights us all up. We haven't seen the last of them, I’m afraid. Now they know we are all heading that way A young navy lad said.

Bloody hell, I don't think I will sleep right until we get to Singapore, then Albert said what all were thinking.

Then you will have a long wait, mate. We are about two more weeks away yet.

The two weeks did pass, and even though the enemy planes attacked a few times, Albert’s ship wasn't hit.

Eventually the shores of Singapore were in sight and a cheer went up. They had made it.

Albert already had a letter written for Gloria and as soon as he arrived on shore, carted off to yet another new barracks, he found the post room and messaged his love.

You see much action? Albert asked a fellow soldier, who looked like he already had the lie of the land.

Not really. We are armed to the teeth here. Anything comes in sight of the shore, we have ‘em. Relax, enjoy your time here. The locals are friendly as well. Just don't drink the water unless you boil it. You all newbies will be getting the shits, but it will pass...

Albert settled into a routine like all others, and he kept reading and re reading his battered Mark Twain. In the book, he kept his pictures of Gloria and Mark, his baby that he has not kissed yet, and he imagined telling Mark the stories that he was reading of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

One night as Albert slept, he