Elizabeth M.R.M Purves was born in the Mid 1930s.

Mummy had a twin sister (Barbara), and they were born with ‘white’ blonde hair, and blue eyes. Eric (their brother), was about sixteen years older, than the twins, and they hardly spent any time with him, as he was generally doing ‘his own thing’ (WWII – Eric spent time in Italy, and he had a ‘Batman’.

As very little girls, their mother (Dorothy), arranged for a tutor to teach them at home, in the garden. Other children, (who lived within the village, were invited to participate with the lessons too.

Mummyand my Aunt were sent to school, and returned home every weekend. As Mummy & Barbara we’re only five, at least  this had been something!!

Granny had always wanted her daughters to improve, and were very ambitious for both Mummy and Barbara. They attended several different Boarding Schools, Marlborough and St James’ (Malvern) being two.

Mummy always spoke with pride, how she was able to find her (and the school party), way out from the New Forest (Hampshire), after they had been very lost. Mummy used her initiative, and obviously had a keen sense of direction!!

Mummy and Barbara enjoyed school (a few were particularly favourites). As they grew, Mummy and Barbara hardly spent any time at home, and very rarely went on holiday, with either or even both parents. Both sisters even travelled separately from each other, and either visited friends, or other relatives (Aunty Bay & Uncle Harry), being a firm favourite.

Mummy & Barbara attended the same riding school as both princesses (Lilibet and Margaret Rose). Apparently, Granny later reiterated to Mummy & Barbara, that it had been the princesses, who had been enthralled by the twins (who were so identical!!). The royal sisters, couldn’t keep from staring at Mummy and Barbara!!