Ray’s Rants Life in the 1950s 1960s 1970s Great Britain girls England family UK work school British music night clubs pubs fashion pirate radio Caroline English holidays television

Tradesman back then. Kids exploring. Pubs in Australia. Windmills.

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Although I have a chest infection, I've put together a podcast episode. Tradesman back in the old days. Kids exploring are raid shelters and underground bunkers. Pubs in Australia. Windmills. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 258

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:44:08 +0000

Oh, no! Half way through the Midweek Message... a disaster!

Someone else's problem becomes my problem.

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, I bang on about someone else's problem becoming my problem. I try to help someone out and their problem becomes my problem... the whole thing backfires! Also, are there any architects today? Looking at new houses, you wouldn't think so! Cars, big or small? Which do you prefer? Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 257.

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time again. No one heard the deliberate mistake last Sunday! That's a shame. Not to worry. How are you? What have you been up to? The weather here is beautiful at the moment. Blue sky and sun!

Places to visit. University or apprentice. Dolls houses. The Toilet Museum. Train Sets.

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Places to visit. University or apprentice. Dolls houses. The Toilet Museum. Train Sets. A walk in the country. So much to chat about in this episode. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 256.

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

A visit to the dentist. Do we still write letters? Weird storms. There's plenty to chat about in this week's Midweek Message.

British Etiquette and good manners. Queuing properly in shops respecting elders.

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

British Etiquette and good manners. Queuing properly in shops respecting elders. Have those days gone? Opening a door for a lady. Offering a lady a seat on a bus or train. Do you still do that?

Midweek Meassage 255.

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time again. In this message, I talk about equality for women. Would you give up your seat on a bus or train for a woman? Do you hold doors open for women? Please, join me for a chat.

Furniture then and now. Train coaches with no corridors. Getting old. Experience of life.

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Lots more to chat about in this episode. Furniture then and now. Trains with no corridors. Getting old. Experience of life. Deliberate mistake. YouTube shorts videos. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 254.

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

We're getting well into February, spring is on the way! In this episode, I talk about modernising old houses and de-modernising (is there such a word?) new houses. Old kitchen sinks, fireplaces and loads of other stuff!

A look at houses in the 1950s. Fireplace Formica modern Supertaps

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, I take a look back at houses and bungalows in the 1950s. The tiled fireplace and hearth rug in the lounge, Formica worktops in the kitchen along with stainless steel sinks with Supertaps... happy days!

Midweek Message 253.

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Find the deliberate mistake in this week's Midweek message. Washing powder and carpet beaters in the old days, trains, clocks, sweet shops and loads more stuff. Please, join me.

Village Tales. Compulsive Liars. Railway Time Clocks.

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Village Tales. Compulsive Liars. Railway Time Clocks. There's a lot to chat about in this episode. I hope you enjoy it!

Midweek Message 252.

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Apologies for my many not deliberate mistakes! Speaking the King's English. Butlin's! Village tales and more...

Ray's Rants Podcast - Holidays back in the old days Lost villages. Bicycles cars on pavements & more

Sun, 18 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Holidays back in the old days. Fly to Spain or go for a caravan in the New Forest? Lost villages, no school, no police house, no vicar... No village! Bicycles and cars on pavements and more...

Midweek Message 251.

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

I remember a lot of rude old shopkeepers back in the old days. The Swap Shop was fun, swapping marbles for toy cars or whatever. Join me for this week's Midweek Message.

January Sales. Cashless Society. Gambling. Ice. Snow.

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

As usual, I have another packed episode for you. January Sales. Cashless Society. Old days bartering. Gambling. Ice in the school playground. Snow everywhere. Please, join me!

Midweek Message 249

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

You can choose your friends but not your family. Is that true? Also, look out for the deliberate mistake in this Midweek Message.

Happy New Year. Holidays in Devon. British Rail. Cars. Doctors. A&E Hospital.

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year. Holidays in Devon. British Rail. Cars. Doctors. A&E Hospital. Lots to talk about this week. Please, join me for a good old chat.

Midweek Message 248.

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time again. What shall we talk about? My grandmother back in the 1950s eating a chicken carcass covered in flies? A bowl of dripping with files all over it? No, no... Let's talk about deliberate mistakes, seagulls eating your sandwich on the seafront, the New Year, spring time and loads of other nice things.

Between Christmas and the New Year.

Sun, 28 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Between Christmas and the New Year. Christmas is over. We've done Christmas Eve, Christmas day, Boxing Day... Now, we only have the New Year to see in. And then, it's time to look forward to the spring!

Happy Christmas 2025

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 09:39:10 +0000

Happy Christmas 2025!

Midweek Message 247.

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 07:58:00 +0000

Christmas eve! We're almost there! Are you ready for the big day? I think we are. I shall be sitting by the coal fire this evening with Tricia. A glass of mulled wine and toasted tea cakes will be nice. Happy Days!

Ghost of Christmas Past. Stop smoking. Amberley Museum. New Years' Resolution and more...

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode, The Ghost of Christmas Past, how to stop smoking. A trip to Amberley Museum. New Years' resolution, good news for Marilyn and more...

Midweek Message 246.

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The coldest city on Earth -71c. Crikey! I moan if the temperature drops to +3c. Are you keeping warm? All this will soon be over and we can enjoy the spring and summer.

Steam Engines. Haircut. School. Christmas. Adverts. Winter Summer. Deliberate Mistake and more...

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

As usual, there's so much to talk about in this episode. Steam Engines. Haircut. School. Christmas. Adverts. Winter and Summer. Deliberate Mistake. Yes, I've had my hair cut! Santa Klaus Father Christmas. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 245.

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Making cheese, churning butter, weather balloons, freezing cold Siberia, and much more.

Churning butter. Radio Sonde weather balloons. Stone age times. Puncture outfit. Happy days!

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

There's a lot to get through in this episode. Churning butter. Radio Sonde weather balloons. Stone age times. Puncture outfit. Building a bicycle. Happy days!

Midweek Message 244.

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Let's talk about Christmas... how it was in the good old days. Home made decorations, real Christmas trees with roots. Home made presents... Happy days!

Christmas TV. Vintage Office Equipment. Village Magazine. Deliberate Mistake and more...

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode... Christmas TV repeats. Vintage office equipment, old duplicators and type writers. The village magazine, local gossip and more! There's a deliberate mistake in this episode, can you spot it?

Midweek Message 243

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 08:08:19 +0000

I'm late today! Crikey! I hope you're keeping well. It's cold here. 0c this morning with a lovely frost and beautiful sunrise.

Childhood memories. Village tales. Horse and cart. Spy radios. Milkman. Coal man.

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode... Childhood memories. Village tales. Horse and cart. Spy radios. Milkman. Coal man.Sayings from the old days. Kelly's directory and so much more...

Midweek Message 242.

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Winter is approaching fast. It was -2c this morning! That's 35f. As kids, we used to love the winter. Snowball fights, ice slides... great fun! Although, a few of us ended up having stitches at the hospital. Happy days!

Villages revisited. Freight trains. Real ale. Music. Graffiti. Litter. Parish Council.

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Another busy Sunday podcast. Villages revisited. Freight trains. Real ale. Music. Graffiti. Litter. Local policeman on a bike. Parish council. P lease, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 241.

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The BBC. January Sales in October. Telling the time. 25th December. Join me for a quick midweek chat.

High Tea. Frozen Milk. Underground Bunkers. Bonfire Night. Derek's Cafe and more...

Sun, 09 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

There's so much to chat about in this episode. High Tea. Frozen Milk. Underground Bunkers. Bonfire Night. Derek's Cafe. Chinese Whispers. Food served on a piece of wood or slate and more...

Midweek Message 240.

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Clockwork doorbells, fish and chip shops, fireplaces, bringing up children in 1878 and much more... Please, join me for a chat.

Expensive Friendships. Poisonous Snakes and Spiders. Meditation. Christmas Curry. Fairies.

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Expensive Friendships. Poisonous Snakes and Spiders. Meditation. Christmas Curry. Fairies. Rubbish Dumps. There's a lost to talk about in this episode. Please, join me.

Midweek Message 239.

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Car park attendants. Swanbourne Lake aircraft crash. Milking a cow. Gas fire pokers. Telephones. Join me for a quick chat this Wednesday.

Toasted Crumpet by the fire. Board Games. Gravel Pits. Train Sets. Pirate Radio.

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Toasted Crumpet by the fire. Fawlty Towers. Board Games. Gravel Pits. Train Sets. Pirate Radio. There's so much to chat about in this episode. I hope you enjoy it!

Midweek Message 238.

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Faulty Towers, more pubs and shops closing, Netflix nights to blame? Join me for a quick chat.

Privately Owned Pubs, Where am I? Air Raid Shelters, New Houses and more...

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Privately Owned Pubs, Where am I? Air Raid Shelters, New Houses and more...

Midweek Message 237.

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Thia restaurants and beer. Fish and chip restaurants. Gin traps and a local rifle range and much more. Please, join me.

Bad drivers, tea sets, fish and chip prices, pubs open late, council houses, pub quiz, and more...

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 07:32:02 +0100

Let's rant about bad car drivers. Why do we use mugs rather than cups and saucers? Where have proper tea sets gone? Fish and chip prices have gone through the roof! Pubs can stay open later... That's all very well but landlords can't afford to pay the staff to stay until midnight! Council houses, new-build house prices, quiz night... and so much more!

Midweek Message 236.

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Prefabricated buildings, so-called friends who let you down, warning notices on TV programs, loud adverts and films... and more! Please, join me!

Rural Living Museum. 1960s Fashion. Friday Club Night. Fish & Chips.

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

I loved visiting the Rural Life Living Museum in Hampshire. I also loved 1960s Fashion, Friday Club Night, Fish & Chips with loads of salt and vinegar... Happy days!

Midweek Message 235.

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0100

The railway quickly developed and spread throughout the country. Goods were carried from A to B, which was great, but... people also started to uproot and travel around the country. Was that a good thing? We're off to Hampshire, the weather is boring, but I hope you'll join me for this week's Midweek Message.

Dreams, Stalkers, Control Freaks, Lies, Thieves, Jobs Worth... and more.

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Dreams, Stalkers, Control Freaks, Lies, Thieves, Job's Worth... and more. There's a mixture of stuff to chat about! I hope you enjoy this hour of rants and inane drivel!

Midweek Message 234.

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Old busses, trams and other stuff. A girl who fell for a control freak.

Change is inevitable, smelly farms, noisy schools, ghosts and much more.

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Change is inevitable, but it happens too fast. People can't keep up with the changes going on in society. Also... ghosts in the woods? Steam engines. Smelly farms and noisy schools. Plus, loads of other stuff. Please, join me for a good old chat.

Midweek Message 233.

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Dumping friends, lying about your car, being an unpaid taxi driver and loads of other stuff. Please, join me for this Midweek Message.

Buying and selling property, what Americans think of Brits, living alone and more..

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Buying and selling property, moving house can be a nightmare! What Americans think of us Brits and our strange sayings. What's it like living alone? I don't think I'd like it. Join me for a chat this Sunday.

Midweek Message 231.

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 08:25:39 +0100

Poisonous frogs, train strikes, gridlocked roads, nothing works properly... what's happened to our country? Join me for a good old moan!

Friends Not Lovers, red phone boxes, gold diggers, no driving license...

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 08:18:59 +0100

Friends Not Lovers, red phone boxes, gold diggers, no driving license... quite a mixture this Sunday. I hope you enjoy the episode.

Midweek Message 230.

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 08:00:00 +0100

The music intro last week went down well... NOT! I knew it! People do NOT like music introductions to podcasts or videos. You'll be pleased to know that I'll never do that again. I've had a haircut... stone the crows, it's cold!

Family Life. Milky drinks, Tizer, bonfires in the Autumn, phone boxes, television...

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Family Life. Milky drinks, Tizer, bonfires in the Autumn, phone boxes, television... What a title! I hope you enjoy this hour-long episode as much as I enjoyed recording it.

Midweek Message 229.

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

This is the BBC Home Service. Here is the news... News readers spoke the Queen's English back in the old days. Now, anything goes! Such a shame. I hope you're keeping well. Autumn is well on the way now, time to go scrumping!

Sex Drugs and Rock and Roll 1960s and more...

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Yes, we had sex, drugs and rock and roll in the 1960s. But, we still have that now... don't we? In this episode, I look back at the 60s and the fun we had back then. I also rant about cars, busses, trains, people and... well, just about anything and everything!

Midweek Message 228.

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Leaving your doors open in the old days wasn't always a good idea! It wasn't only neighbours who popped in! New washing machine, anyone? Ripped jeans... why buy them when you can rip your own jeans? Happy days!

Doors not locked, neighbours wander in, people were trusted.

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Is it true that people didn't lock their doors in the old days? Neighbours would wander in for a chat or to borrow a cup of sugar or some milk if they'd run out. People were more trustworthy back then... most of them, anyway!

Midweek Message 227.

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Cars, dustmen, seagulls, hammering... plenty of background noises to day! Is eating meat good for you? Or should we all go vegan? Noooo... I'd miss my cheese and pickle sandwiches!

Have we progressed as a society?

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Have we progressed as a society? Have things changed for the better? Good question. Also, bicycles with no lights, More on allotments, electric trolly busses replaced by diesel, paper bags rather than plastic... Join me for a good old rant!

Midweek Message 226.

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Dentist, optician, teeth, glasses... Stone the crows! Expense! Local councils might be selling off allotment for developers to build houses. Sacrilege! I hope you're keeping well. Let's have a good old moan!

Your first car, first house, new or old? Plus, thunder and Lightning!

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Your first car, first house... do you prefer new or old? I love old cars. It doesn't matter if the car is scratched or dented, who cares? Old houses have character, history and stories to tell. Would you cover your entire garden with a greenhouse? The ide sounds great but... Do you like electrical storms? In this episode, I’m in the garden recording the storm! Join me this Sunday for a good old natter.

Midweek Message 225.

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Eating out. Chinese, Indian, Thai restaurants. Fish and Chip shops. Join me for a chat about the good old days... and these days.

Picnics countryside unexploded bombs Swanbourne Lake Arundel and more...

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Picnics in the countryside, unexploded bombs and a German aircraft found in Swanbourne Lake, Arundel. And, of course, lots more! Please, join me.

Midweek Message 224.

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

A lovely Sunday afternoon listening to live music in the pub... NOT! What a disaster! The train was cancelled, my knee hurt, my ears were tortured with the noise... Then there's the window cleaner who decided clean our windows. Stone the crows!

Heating house in the 50s. Man caves. house husbands, good manners and more...

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

How did we heat out homes back in the 50s and 60s? We had a coal fire in the lounge but, what about the bedrooms? Also, man caves.... every man, and woman, should have one! Would you like to be a house husband? Imagine staying at home doing all the household chores while your wife is at work. Manners maketh man, does that still hold today? Electronics everywhere! It's all too much!

Midweek Message 223.

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:50:47 +0100

The weather, computers, cars, a big shout out... apparently, a top doctor reckons that going to the pub is good for mental health. I'll drink to that! Sadly, we're losing pubs at the rate of one a day.

What Girls Wanted in the 60s. Trains. Pubs Closing. School and more

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

What girls really wanted in the old days and what they wants now. Steam trains, or not. Pubs closing at the rate of one a day! Leaving school and more... Join me!

Midweek Message 222.

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Massive rain storm, heatwave on the way, town centre shop closing, moaning and complaining, stress... Join me for a good old natter!

We know about the past. What about the future? AI, driverless cars, no shope, no pubs...

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

We know all about the past, what happened when and where. But, what about the future? AI, will authors and playwrights be out of a job? Will we need to learn to drive a car? Cars will be driverless! Will shops exist? Order everything online. Join me this Sunday for a chat.

Midweek Message 221.

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0100

It's hot, too hot! I mustn't complain about the heat. After all, I've been moaning about the cold throughout the winter and now it's summer. I hope you're keeping well and not overheating... like me!

How has your town and your life changed over the years?

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

How has your town and your life changed over the years? Buildings have been demolished and replaced by monstrosities. Your life has changed in many ways, some good some bad. Remember the fairground visiting your town? Happy days! Working from home, does it work? Join me for a good old chat this Sunday.

Midweek Message 220.

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Computers, don't you just love them? Let's retire and relax... Hah, a chance would be a fine thing! Stress, avoid it at all costs! Last but not least, small houses in Britain. We live in a box!

England, now a different country.

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

So many things have changed over the years that England doesn’t always feel like England anymore. Plus, do you use too many words to describe something? Brevity is lost! Please, join me for a good old chat this Sunday.

Midweek Message 219.

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Dinner parties in the 1980s, dens of iniquity, boring podcast episodes and more... please, join me for this week's Midweek Message.

Relationship breakup, losing possessions, pressed flowers...

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I bang on about relationships breaking up where people lose possessions, very often including their home. Pressing wild flowers, collecting things and more. Please, join me.

Midweek Message 218.

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

What have you lost during a relationship break-up? A house? A car? That's something I might talk about next Sunday. Trespassing in the woods, fishing, politics... no, not politics! Stone the crows! Join me for a chat about this and that.

Car salesmen, Hi-Fi equipment, it was all about the bass in the 1960s!

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Car salesmen, transistor radios in the good old days, Hi-Fi equipment… do youngsters today know what quality audio sounds like? It’s all about the bass! The 1950s and 60s when teenagers wanted a TV in their bedroom, a transistor radio and a record player. These days, they want the latest iPhone. How sad. Join me for a good old chat.

Midweek Message 217.

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

The Highway Code back in the 1930s, a cat deterrent, the weather, your emails and more. Please, join me for a chat.

Crittal windows in the old days double glazing buying a fridge or dishwasher nightmare

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Crittal windows were all the thing in the1950s. Then, double glazing came along with pushy salesmen entering our homes. Want to buy a fridge or a dishwasher these days? What a palaver! It was so easy back in the good old days. In this episode, I have a good old moan and rant! Join me, if you dare!

Midweek Message 216.

Wed, 28 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Do you find yourself making excuses when someone invites you out, say, to a certain restaurant you don’t like? Or are you the type who’s upfront and simply says it’s not your scene? Sometimes, a small white lie feels like the polite way out... but is it really the best choice?

Isle of Wight Trip May 2025

Sun, 25 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

During our Isle of Wight trip this year we went on a boat trip, visited Osbourne house, Shanklin Chine, the Donkey Sanctuary, Quarr Abbey and much more. Please, join me for a look at the island.

Midweek Message 215.

Wed, 21 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

School kids walk to school in the pouring rain wearing just a shirt or blouse with no coat. Do you remember being told... Go out in the rain and you'll catch your death of cold! Rubbish! In this Midweek Message, I won't be boring you with stories from the Isle of Wight... I'm saving that for Sunday.

Midweek Message 214.

Wed, 14 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

I'm hoping that it will be a lovely day weather-wise when you listen to this Midweek Message. Because, I'll be on holiday! The sun will be shining, the sky blue, the real ale flowing... Haha, happy days!

Society Today versus the Good Old Days.

Sun, 11 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Society today is very different from the good old days. In this episode, I compare then and now and wonder whether things were better many moons ago. Please, join me.

Midweek Message 213.

Wed, 07 May 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Hello, I'm back from Milton Keynes. We had a great time looking around museums but we're pleased to be home.

Midweek Message 212.

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Sunday roast dinner, Queen Victoria, oast houses. Queen Matilda and more... What a mixture this midweek message is! I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed chatting.

Punishing Kids, teachers, parents, school caning,

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Were you physically punished when you were young. I got the cane for bunking off school! Happy days!

Midweek Message 211.

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Gardening, car washing, window cleaning, hat making... What? Hat making? A chap I in knew was a milliner. He laughed at me because I was a TV engineer and he made hats! Happy days!

From a Paper Round to a Saturday Job.

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Did you have a Saturday job when you were at school? For many kids, a paper round was the first step which often lead to a Saturday job and, sometimes, something even more exciting. I’ve got a couple of stories about Saturday jobs that turned out to be quite special.

Midweek Message 210.

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Did you have a paper round when you were young? It was a popular way of earning money back in the old days. I had to get to the paper shop at 6 in the morning... strewth! That was early! Happy days!

Hippies School Museums Girls and more

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Do you remember school assembly? The head teacher would stand on the stage moaning and groaning about this and that before ordering us to sing a hymn. Were you a hippie? I remember coming across a load of hippies in the woods... happy days! Please, join me for a chat.

Midweek Message 209.

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Bring back the old days! I hear people say, almost daily. People used to laugh at me when I said I wanted to go back to the 1950s. Now, they're saying it!

Midweek Message 208.

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0100

This is a noisy podcast episode! Sorry about that. But, I do manage to have a chat with you.

Sunny Worthing Tomatoes

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0100

Sunny Worthing was famous for growing tomatoes back in the old days. There were huge greenhouses everywhere! Sadly, those days have gone. Most of our fruit and vegetables come from abroad now. Join me this Sunday for a good old chat.

Midweek Message 207.

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hi, I hope you're well. What did I do before I was allowed out on my own to the woods? I played with my trainset, my Meccano set, I played in the street and the garden... Happy days!

What I did in the 1950s… Apart from going to the woods every day!

Sun, 23 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

I know that I'm always on about the woods and the pond with frogs and tadpoles and sticklebacks and water boatmen... But, what else did I do when I was young? In this episode, I shall tell you.

Midweek Message 206.

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Rubbish cars, cold callers, the weather, scrumping and more...

Midweek Message 205.

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

A new boss in the workplace, ruining everything! We've been to our first BBQ this summer, I've put up a new fence, Gary is out and about... Join me for a chat this Wednesday!

Shops with no stock! Homemade pickles, chutney and jam, the weather...

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Shops these days don't seem to have anything in stock! Stone the crows! Three weeks delivery and then the item is dented! Homemade pickles, chutney and jam, the weather... Join me for a good old moan about shops and stuff.

Midweek Message 204.

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hello, I hope you're keeping well. Buying from shops... don't you hate it when they have nothing in stock? I'll be moaning about this and other stuff so do join me.

Medical stuff and other bits and pieces.

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hello, it me again with a quick chat about medical stuff and other bits and pieces.

Road Works, Tortoise, Amberley, Phones and more

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hello, it's me just popping in to see how you are. Here's a catch up on road works, Gary the tortoise, Amberley Museum, phones and more...

Midweek Message 202.

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hello, I thought I'd pop in and see how you are. All good, I hope? We've had some sunshine so I've mown the lawn. Is that mown or mowed? Whatever!

Midweek Message 203

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hello, I hope you're keeping well. I've just popped in to say hi and see how you are.

A Message From Ray's Rants

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Hi, as most of you know by now, I'm no longer recording regular podcast episodes. However, I will be publishing episodes now and then, when I get the time, so I won't be disappearing altogether. Family commitments have rather taken over at the moment.

Midweek Message 200.

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Another busy week! I thought retirement was supposed to be relaxing? Obviously not!

Love Honour and Obey

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Marriage vows, to love, honour and obey. Did you vow to love, honour and obey your husband when you married? What are your thoughts on doing as you’re told by your husband? Join me this Sunday for a good old rant.

Midweek Message 199.

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

I ventured out of the house and into the woods for the first time this year! We had a lovely walk in the fresh air and weak winter sunshine.

The Good Old Days

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

People often talk about the good old days, how they would love to go back to the good old days, including me! Is it because those days were better? Or is it because these days are worse? Does that make sense? The good old days were always particularly good, but these days seem particularly bad. Join me this Sunday for a good old rant.

Midweek Message 198.

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time again! I hope you're keeping well. The sun is out here, the sky is blue, there's a gentle breeze... Happy days!

Neighbours! Good ones, bad ones… are you a good neighbour?

Sun, 12 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

I hear so many stories about bad neighbours. Are you a good neighbour? Do you pull fences down or grow huge hedges or park your car to block a driveway? Loud music and wild parties, gardens full of rubbish… In this episode, I’ll chat about neighbour, both good and bad. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 197.

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Have you ever heard of a one-way street, which is two way for bicycles? What a crazy idea! I hope you're keeping warm in the Northern Hemisphere. It's zero degrees here! However, spring is getting a little closer with every passing day.

What will the new year bring? The Weather, catching thieves and more.

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

New Year 2025. In this episode, I'll talk about the new year and what it might hold for us. I'll also be reminiscing about years gone by. The weather, catching thieves and lots of other stuff!

Midweeek Message 196

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Happy New Year! Let's hopoe that 2025 is better all round for the world.

New Year 1951 to 2025 Christmas New Year Boxing Day Sales...

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

New Year 1951, when I was born, until now, 2025. In this episode, I ramble on about new years and Christmases of the past and today. Also, lots of other stuff!

Midweek Messahe 195.

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Merry Christmas! I hope you're all having a lovely day! Don't eat or drink too much... That includes me! Be good, be merry and enjoy yourselves!

What will happen when there are no pubs left?

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What will happen when there are no pubs left? Once, the pub was the heart of the community—a place where locals gathered, stories were shared, and news of the district was exchanged. It was more than just a place to drink; it was a social hub that connected people, strengthened relationships, and gave communities a sense of identity and belonging.

What will happen when there are no pubs left?

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

On Leaving School What Was Your First Job?

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What was your first job after you left school? Did you stay in that job until your retirement? Please, join me this Sunday for a look back at work and school and girls and just about everything else back in the old days.

Midweek Message 192.

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

When I was a boy, I wanted to be a steam engine driver. It was exciting, it was amazing... every boy wanted to be a train driver! What job did you want to do when you grew up? What job did you do? Let me know.

The Winter of 1962/63.

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Winter is here so let's talk about the dreadful winter of 62/63. I was twelve years old so I remember it well. Also, we'll have a moan about traffic jams, your favourite Christmas presents, storm Garragh, food and much more. Please, join me.

Midweek Message 191.

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Christmas eve in the old days. Over to the pub at lunch time, back to work after a few beers only to be sent home... wonderful! On Christmas day, shops were closed, pubs were closed... everywhere was closed! Happy days!

Making Money Moonlighting Food Additives Christmas in the 1960s and 1970s.

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

How easy was it to make money back in the old days? We were a nation of shopkeepers. But we were also a nation of moonlighters. Many people worked on private jobs in their spare time. Also in this episode, brussel sprouts and Christmas trees, renting out part of your garden, food additives, hormones, pesticides… Join me for an hour of light relief, and moaning!

Midweek Message 190.

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

I think we have too much in the way of technology. Mobiles phones, computers, iPads... The PC displays the blue screen of death! The TV said it has no connection, check your HDMI cable... It's all too much! Life used to be relaxed, peaceful, tranquil... Happy days!

Mr Jobsworth, Firms Man, you can't do this, you can't do that...

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

You've heard of Mr Jobsworth. Oh, you can't do that, it's more that my job's worth to allow you to do that. Mr Firmsman... You've broken the company rules! I'll have to report you for doing that! Join me this Sunday for a chat and a laugh.

Midweek Message 189.

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In this Midweek Message, I talk about a village where the leader of parish council is a right jobsworth, a firm's man... or woman. You can't do this, you can't do that! Crikey, what a daft state of affairs!

When I Was A Boy - PART TWO.

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Shop rents, utopia, farmers, cuttings from plants, beer barrels, mail order... There's a lot to get through in this week's podcast episode. I hope you enjoy it!

Midweek Message 188.

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Playing in the street, grandchildren, fish and chips, pavement parking, old photos... Please, join me this Wednesday for a chat.

Village LIfe, Shopkeepers, Grandparents, old Radio Plays.

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Village Life, Shopkeepers, old Radio Plays... Do you remember The Navy Lark, Handcock's Half Hour, Steptoe and Son... Happy days on the radio! Also, I talk about grandparents playing a major part in children's lives. Join me for a good old chat!

Midweek Message 187.

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hello and welcome to another Midweek Message. I hope you're keeping well. It's getting cooler here in Britain as we head towards winter. What's it like where you are?

What do you do in your free time?

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What do you do in your free time? Do you get any spare time? These days, it seems that everyone is so busy they rarely have time to sit down for five minutes. Retirement isn't at all what I'd thought it would be. Do this, so that, go here, go there... Please, join me this Sunday for a chat.

Midweek Message 186.

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hi, I hope you're keeping well. It's mild here, 15C which is 59F. I've bought some coal for our open fire and sorted out the kindling wood, so we're ready to go. Are you ready for Halloween? We have a tub of sweets by the front door ready for the children should they pop round. Happy days!

When perfume was called scent and petrol was 7/6d a gallon.

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In days gone by, fish and chips were wrapped in newspaper, perfume was called scent, school kids got the cane, beer was 16 pence for a pint in my local pub... And, a few extracts from a little book written in 1878 about bringing up children. Please, join me this Sunday for a look back at the old days.

Midweek Message 185.

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

We're getting through October. Winter is nearing! I hope you're keeping warm. The sun is out as I write this but it's pretty chilling outside. Child care, weddings, conker trees... I hope you enjoy this week's Midweek Message.

Housewives 1950s 1960s. Were they slaves?

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Housewives back in the old days were often no more than slaves chained to the kitchen sink! According to a book I've been reading, the man was the master of the house and his authority shouldn't be questioned! Crikey! Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 184.

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, architecture, the Isle of Wight and more... who remembers Disprin, the dissolvable aspirin tablets? They were prescribed for anything and everything back in the old days! Is it good to take several tablets every day? I don't think so.

Good Things in the Good Old Days, and much more...

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I love the good old days. You could get an appointment with the doctor. You didn't have to wait on the phone listening to Greensleeves for an hour. Travelling by car was a breeze. Please, join me this Sunday for a look back at the good old days.

Midweek Message 183.

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's that time again. How are you? Keeping well, I hope. Adverts, changing times, excuses and reasons... Join me for a midweek chat.

Inside British houses, my Isle of Wight trip and more…

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

This week, I’m looking inside British houses. Where is the bathroom situated? Is the kitchen at the back or the front of the house? Where is the lounge, the dining room, the bedrooms… I’ll also be talking about my Isle of Wight trip. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Massage 182.

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I recorded this Midweek Message on Sunday 29/9/24 because I won't be here this Wednesday. I'll be having a great time, hopefully, on the Isle of Wight! You'll hear all about it next Sunday.

Buildings, architecture, old houses, new houses and more...

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Where have all the lovely old buildings gone? What happened to the old architecture? I’ve just driven past a new block of flats on the seafront. It looks like a prison block! Please, join me.

Midweek Message 181.

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Hello, how are you? Welcome to another Midweek Message. I hope you enjoy my 10 minute chat about new words replacing old words, farm animals, the weather and so much more.

Kids Then and Now.

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

What did children do back in the 50s and 60s? Back then, it was a totally different world! I doubt that youngsters of today would be able to grasp the idea of life back then. Also in this episode, wireless and TV back in the old days, mobile phone these days and lots of other goodies. Please, join me.

Midweek Message 180.

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Autumn was lovely for kids back in the old days. They'd don their wellies and help dad in the garden. Sweeping up leave, poking the bonfire with a stick, baking potatoes in the embers... Happy days!

The Waverley Paddle Steamer, Southampton Docks and more.

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I'm not going to bore you with too much talk about the Waverley cruise but I will mention it. Also, Southampton Docks, steam engines, freight trains and more... Please, join me.

Midweek Message 179.

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's getting colder. In fact, I've a good mind to light the coal fire! No, I must try to make the autumn last as long as I can. I hope you're keeping well. I have a quick story to tell in this Midweek Message. I know you like stories from the good old days.

Stories From The Past, A Visit To Amberley Museum and more.

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

We visited Amberley Museum the other day. The sun was out and it was hot... just like summer! Also in this episode, stories from the past, old word we no longer use, scroungers and more...

Midweek Message 178.

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

The naughty things that happened in my old school library! Old words we no longer use, let's bring some back into everyday usage. Homemade chutney and other goodies... Join me for a relaxing chat.

The Weather

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0100

The good old British weather affects more than people's picnics and BBQs. Many businesses rely on decent weather, especially at weekends. In this episode, amongst other stuff, I have a good old chinwag about the weather.

Midweek Message 177.

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

An English country village... the post office closes, the general store closes, the garage closes, there's no bus service, the red telephone box disappears, the pub closes... What! They can't close the pub! Join me for a good old moan!

Things I Don't Like. Plus, stress and anxiety, processed food and more...

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I don't like many things. Processed food, modern cars, noise, crowds, credit cards... Please join me this Sunday for a good old rant about the things I don't kike. And, of course, the few things I do like.

Midweek Mdessage 176.

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Did you go camping back in the old days? A ground sheet, a canvas tent that let the water through... Happy days. Or not! Old radios, old televisions... I've been collecting more junk! Join me for a chat.

Quality Built by Craftsmen before the days of Chipboard, MDF & Plastic.

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I look back at the way furniture and other items were built by craftsmen. Sadly, the use of chipboard, MDF and plastic has replaced quality materials. Dovetail joints in furniture have been replaced by wood glue and staples. I also chat about cars, 1960s girls, music... Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 175.

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

We've had some lovely weather... 23c - 73F at 7 o'clock in the morning! Excellent! Summer has arrived, albiet very late. I can feel an outside broadcast coming on if this weather holds. I hope you're keeping well. Happy days!

A Typical Day In The 1960s. Off To Work!

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I recall a typical day back in the 1960s. There was a transistor radio in the kitchen but no morning television to watch during breakfast. Leaving the house, you only needed your car keys and your wallet and perhaps a packed lunch... no mobile phone, laptop or other electronic devices. Also, Chinese whispers, rumours, malicious lies and more! Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 174.

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's that time again! How are you? Keeping well, I hope. This week I'm chatting about the old photos of me in the 1960s that have been lost over time. Such a shame! The weather... it's raining. My new Union flag and much more. Please, join me.

Why are people so loud? The shops we loved and lost, and more...

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I'll ponder on why some people have such loud voices and laughter that can be heard over vast distances. They not only deafen everyone around them, but practically maim the inner ear... even at 30 yards! Also, the shops we loved and have lost. So many high street shops have gone, and we miss them! Foxes, hedgehogs, package holidays... Join me this Sunday for another good old-fashioned rant about anything and everything!

Midweek Message 173.

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Hello, I hope you're keeping well. Loud people, loud music... Yes, I'm off on another rant about my poor ears. In fact, next Sunday's episode will cover loud people, as well as lots of other stuff. If you've nothing to do then, pease, join me.

English Villages, Sundays When The Shops Were Closed and more...

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I’ll be returning to a village where I once lived. Unfortunately, many villages have been absorbed by expanding towns, but a few have managed to escape the encroachment of the urban sprawl. Some haven’t yet been eaten up by the concrete monsters! I’ll also talk about Sundays, back in the day when the shops were closed and the roads were empty. Join me this Sunday for a chat.

Midweek Message 172.

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Later this week, I'm off to visit my old village. I'm sure there will have been many changes since I lived there almost 40 years ago. I'll tell you all about it on Sunday. It's nice to be home after my week away in Bognor. Have you had a holiday this year? Are you planning to go away? What's the weather doing where you are? It's been awful here! Still, I mustn’t grumble!

Timeline Britain 1950s plus Bognor Butlins!

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I look back at the various events over the 50s 60s and 70s. In 1953, The first James Bond book, Casino Royale, was published. The Great Train Robbery of 1963. In 1961, the construction of the Berlin Wall begins. Plus, I’ll tell you all about my week at Bognor Butlin’s! Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 171.

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Welcome to another Midweek Message. Daft adverts, The Mysterons, the weather, post codes, zones and lots more stuff!

Further Education, Technical College, Adult Classes in the 1960s

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Back in the 60s, many people who had left school were keen to go back to college to learn a trade. Women wanted to learn secretarial skills such as typing and shorthand. Men could learn bricklaying, car mechanics or many other trades. It was a great way to become qualified. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 170.

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

The weather outside is frightful, but the fire is quite delightful... That's a Christmas song, and you'd think it was winter here. Rain, wind, cold... Stone the crows! No point in moaning about it, but I will!

Trip to Pulborough Brooks.

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Tricia and I visit the RSPB reserve at Pulborough in West Sussex. Visit their website here. Also, what were pubs like back in the 1960s? Were they just boozers? Or, were they an integral part of the community? Plus, remembering the old record shops, hiding money beneath the mattress... Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 169.

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Do you remember recording music from Pick of the Pops on a Sunday evening? The old reel to reel tape recorder whirling away, recording your favourite tracks. More on nicknames, gardens, the doctor... and more!

The Great Storm of 1987 plus What's In A Name?

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Do you remember the great storm of 1987 here in the UK? What a shock it was! The National Grid sustained heavy damage, leaving thousands without power. It was astonishing that the weather reports failed to predict a storm of such magnitude.

Old names, new names, double-barrelled names—how many Christian names do you have? Are you known by your first name or your middle name? Do you have a nickname? Join me this Sunday as we explore the fascinating evolution of names over the centuries.

Midweek Message 168.

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

This Sunday, I'll be chatting about people's names. Old names, new names, double-barrelled names… How many Christian names do you have? Also, I'll be recalling the events during the storm of 1987 here in Britain. Please, join me.

Things We No Longer Have Or See In The UK.

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Who remembers the iconic Hoovermatic Twintub washing machine? A staple in British homes during the 1960s, it was incredibly popular. And what about the Rolls Dishwasher that perched on the kitchen draining board? Join us this Sunday as we take a nostalgic journey through household and other items of the past that have since disappeared! Also, I’m chatting from Amberley Museum.

Midweek Message 167.

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Traditional English Food, Pubs, Shops...

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

What is traditional English food? Dishes like bubble and squeak, meat and two veg, toad in the hole, shepherd's pie and fish and chips come to mind. In this episode, Tricia chats about classic English meals, going all the way back to World War II. Not that we were around back then! Also in this episode, people opening their houses as shops in the old days. There were corner shops, of course, but also mid-terrace houses where people had converted their lounge into a shop. Join us this Sunday!

Midweek Message 166.

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Hi, I hope you're well. Traditional English meals, school dinners, chip shops, transistor radios back in the 1960s... Join me for a good old chat.

School Holidays and other stuff.

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Remember the joy of school holidays in the old days? Six glorious weeks of summer freedom! Imagine if we had mobile phones back in the 50s and 60s. How would we have reacted to social media? The days before computers, what did the banks do? What did the tax office do? Everything was written is huge books called ledgers. Imagine the work! Join me this Sunday as we take a nostalgic journey back to those golden, and sometimes not so golden, days.

Ray's Roaming Rants - St Mary's Church, Sompting.

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

This Roaming Rant took me to St Mary's Church, Sompting, West Sussex. Built in the 11th or 12th century, the church is one of only a few on Britain with a Saxon tower. Please, join me for a look around the church.

Midweek Message 165.

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I've been to church! More on that later. Also, I have a sore throat, we had great weather on Sunday... Why address letters to, for example, Mrs Fred Smith? Is she a man? That's her husband's name, not hers! That was the way things were in the old days. Does that still happen?

Live Your Life. Children in Pubs. Miserable People and more.

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Live Your Life! Live and let live. In other words, let people get on with their lives and you get on with your life. Don't interfere with or poke your nose into other people's business. Punishing children. What are your thoughts on spanking kids? Also, kids in pubs. Should children be allowed into pubs? Please, join me this Sunday for a good old moan... I mean, chat.

St Mary The Virgin Clapham Church West Sussex

Fri, 31 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Welcome to another of Ray's Roaming Rants. This time, I visit St Mary the Virgin Church at Clapham, West Sussex. The church, built in the 12th century, is in the woods. What better location for a lovely old building! I hope you enjoy this short episode.

An Announcement!

Thu, 30 May 2024 08:52:17 +0100

Hi, I’m pleased to announce that my new website, raysrants.info, is now live! Check it out to explore a collection of photos and video clips from my recent travels. Many of you have been asking to see pictures from the various places I’ve visited so, I hope you’ll enjoy what I’ve shared. I'll be adding more so do visit the page regularly.

Midweek Message 164.

Wed, 29 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's raining again! Is the summer over? Crickey, I don't think it had even started. In this episode, the weather, falling in love with someone you should have, the Boy Scouts Bob-A-Job week... I hope you'll join me.

History, London trolley buses, diesel engines, trams, trains...

Sun, 26 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

History, whether global or personal, can be either boring or fascinating. In this episode, I discuss the mistakes we've made in our personal histories and whether we've learned from them. I also talk about the history of London trolley buses, trams, diesel engines, trains, the pipeline from the Isle of Wight to France, and much more. Join me for a chat which, hopefully, won’t be boring!

Ray's Roaming Rants - Isle of Wight holiday May 2024.

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

This is the first of a new series, Ray’s Roaming Rants. We had a lovely time on the Isle of Wight. I made a few audio recordings of various places we visited during our stay which I hope you will find interesting.

Midweek Message 163.

Wed, 22 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

I've been to the Isle of Wight. I won't bore you with the details but, in this Midweek message, I'll tell you a little about our holiday. Quarr Abby, Yarmouth Castle, the Solent, the weather... Please, join me for a quick chat.

Steam trains, electric trains, diesel trains, getting married and more...

Sun, 19 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Steam trains, electric trains, diesel trains, getting married and... Getting married? What's that got to do with trains? I'll be in the Isle of Wight when you listen to this episode. Fingers crossed the weather is good!

Midweek Message 162.

Wed, 15 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's that time again. Welcome to another Midweek Message. Mods and Rockers, hippies... Who remembers the weekends in Brighton? Happy days! Did you have a scooter or a motorbike? Join me for a quick chat.

Dinosaurs, Alfresco BBQs, Picnics, a story and more...

Sun, 12 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Dinosaurs roamed the Earth 66 million years ago! What's that got to do with the 1950s? Not a lot. Alfresco, BBQs, eating outside... that wasn't a thing back in the 1950s and 60s. But it's very popular these days. Join me this Sunday for a chat about anything and everything.

Midweek Message 161.

Wed, 08 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Hello and welcome to yet another Midweek Message. The weather, cars, loud adverts, shouting and... I tell you a joke! Please, join me for a midweek chat.

Stories From The 1960s and more...

Sun, 05 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode, on this beautifully sunny weekend, I recall a few stories from the 1960s. PLUS! A recording of a well known DJ on a well known radio station in 1973! This snippet will bring memories flooding back for many of you. Those were magical radio days. Please, join me this Sunday.

Midweek Message 159.

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:00:00 +0100

The summer has arrived! Probably only for a day or two... No, I mustn't be negative. The weather is beautiful. Holidays in Britain in the old days were great. The roads were clear, no potholes, driving was lovely... Did you go to Spain for your holidays back in the 70s? English fish and chips, English beer... You'd think we were back home!

The Eternal Triangle, Lies, Deceit, Adultery, Infidelity, Carnaby Street, local shops, landline phones...

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Adultery in the 1950s? Perish the thought! Did people lie and cheat on each other back in the old days? Two-timing, deceit, lies... Not in the good old days, surely? Join me this Sunday and we'll find out. Also in this episode, Carnaby Street in London, local shops, landline phones, sound effects and more!

Midweek Message 158.

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Clothes back in the 60s and 70s, strange characters, Lambretta scooters and more... Please, join me for this Wednesday's Midweek Message.

Tradesmen - Plumbers Electricians Decorators Handymen...

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In the old days, there were loads of tradesman. There are tradesmen these days, of course. But how did they differ in the 50s and 60s? Join me this Sunday and we'll find out.

Midweek Message 157.

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Welcome to another Midweek Message. I've had a great deal of positive response about the Nurse Diane Interview so, I might try and set up more interviews. Thanks for all your emails, keep them coming. The weather here has turned colder... there's a surprise! But, we have a wall of heat of the way! Whatever that is!

NHS Nursing. Chatting to Nurse Diane about the old days in the local hospital.

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

In this episode I welcome Diane, my sister-in-law, into the studio. She's a retired nurse and she chats about her days working in hospitals and a GP's surgery. The operating theatre, the wards, the matron, a nursing school, sticking needles in people, giving patients alcohol... Please, join me for a very interesting chat with Nurse Diane this coming Sunday.

Midweek Message 156.

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

We've had an extremely high tide which caused floods in a nearby town. Where's the summer? In this Midweek Message I chat about the weather, as usual, hospitals, dentists and more. Please, join me.

Etiquette Morals Integrity Principles Respect Decency...

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Etiquette Morals Integrity Principles Respect Decency... Do such things exist these days? Would you give up your seat on a bus to a pregnant woman? Would you help an elderly lady cross the road? Please, join me for a chat this coming Sunday.

Midweek Message 155.

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0100

It's that time again! Welcome to another Midweek Message. Idiots behind desks, youngsters shouting in the pub, people who show off and so much more...

Some People Have All The Luck.

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0100

Some people have all the luck, some people have all the fun. Luck plays a big part in some people's lives. You have to be in the right place at the right time, but some people are elsewhere at some other time. Please, join me for a chat this coming Sunday about lucky and unlucky people.