Vera and Dora were born on the 11th March 1930 at Marston Farm, Hope to Irvin and Evelyn Robinson and sisters to Eric. It was double the trouble for him.
Vera married went on to marry Bernard Dawson. They have 2 children, 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Dora married Ron Priestley and they have 5 children 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Dora’s first grandchild Lisa Critchlow, Vera’s first grandchild, Thomas Cooper and Eric’s first grandchild, Sarah Hayes were all born on the same date 27th October, how strange is that?
Dora and Vera helped on the dairy farm and used to join their dad on the daily milk round. They tell us what hard work it was at times. Dora continued farming with Ron and their family at Fields Farm in Castleton. They had one of the best dairy herds in the valley. Vera went on to work at Earles Cement Works in the bagging section and also in the local Castleton pubs. She lived in the family home until 1992.
They both went to Castleton School and this is where they met there good friend, Noreen Beverley who eventually became their sister-in-law, marrying their brother Eric.
They loved being in the Castleton Garland, where they remained until they were 14, but came out of retirement and danced again to celebrate the millennium when they were 70 years old.
They were also in the Girls Friendly Society and during the war put on shows in the local villages, raising money for the forces – they still talk about what good times they had.
Vera decided to learn to play the trombone she was taught by Arthur Nadin and was the first lady to play in Castleton Band, it was through the band where she met Bernard, who at a later date introduced Ron, together with his daughter, Ann and Son, David to play in Thornsett Band where they played for many years. David, his wife, Jane and some of their family still play today in Castleton Band .
The twins are doing well and live together in Moorland House in Hathersage. They are both an inspiration to us all. Happy Birthday, love from all your family XX