Basketmaking was carried out in many homes in the parish, including a cottage named “Severnside”, which was situated by the River Severn in Apperley. A lady called Fanny grew up in that cottage in the early years of the 20th century, brought up by her mother’s sister Mary-Ann Dunn. Here, Fanny learnt the business of basket making which was carried out at Severnside for many years.
Many types of baskets were made including coal baskets (kipes) which were sent on tug boats to Gloucester for sale to coal merchants. The basketmakers would sit cross-legged in a little workshop next to the house.
In the early 1930s Fanny married Cecil Allen, an engine driver. They are remembered for keeping at least a dozen cats, who would be lying around everywhere at Severnside. Fanny was well known and respected in the local community. She and Cecil are buried in Deerhurst churchyard.
Photos – thanks to Celia Davey