Belfast Days. Eimear O’Callaghan

would drop in to be updated. It wasn’t unusual for our neighbours, the Gordons and McGlades, to arrive at our front door as late as midnight, especially if a major incident had been reported on the late night news. My mother, always at the centre of these impromptu get-togethers, provided supper and refreshments, while the chatting and speculation continued into the early hours of the morning.

      Sat, Feb 19

       Slept in for a while and Aidan brought my breakfast up to bed because, he said, I would be helping him with his French next week – sort of takes things for granted!

       Mammy, Daddy, Paul and I went over to the shops – at least the ones which remain! Stoning troops etc. – usual practice for a Saturday afternoon.

       I made the tea and watched the Cliff Richard Show. Fairly peaceful day.

      Sun, Feb 20

       We went to 10 o’clock Mass. Daddy goes off tomorrow, therefore he and Mammy making the best of each other. Watched ‘A Tale of Two Cities’ with Dirk Bogarde – too much! Went for a drive down to the docks to see where the Ardrossan boat sets out from, however everywhere is closed up.

       Had birthday party (belated) for Daddy and then went out to shops later with Mammy. We bought piles of sweets for Daddy. I carried them home, only to discover that there was a hole in the bag. Had to re-trace our steps back to the shop, along the deserted, unlit road. I’m sure we looked really peculiar!

      Mon, Feb 21

       Got up, knew Daddy leaves today for Edinburgh. Decided to take half day or at least get out early. Came fourth in Spanish, 64%, very surprised.