WW2 Poem: I used to work in an office and someone called me Balmy

I used to work in an office and someone called me Balmy

When eighteen months ago or so I joined the blinkin’ Land Army.

There really is a lot to learn and I am getting quite proficient,

I know manure that’s artificial and the other sort that isn’t.

I also know in summer-time when everything looks fair

You just roll up your trouser legs to give the calves more air.

I think I’m quite respectable and got quite decent ways

For I was always taught to do just my mum says

And when the cowmen start to swear or get rough in their fun

I fix them coldly with a stare and say I’ll tell my mum.

Well I’ve been through this rigmarole and you don’t know who I am

So I will say goodbye for now, I am yours sincerely, Pam.

By Pamela Robinson, WLA number 53754. Pamela grew up in Wallington, Surrey. She worked on a farm near Slough, Berkshire, likely owned by the Bucket Family.

Thank you to Martin Honor, Pamela’s nephew, for sharing this poem.