1. Review
Author: Eddie Regan
I believe this is the first showing of this play written by June Metcalfe and what a very
interesting and enjoyable evening of theatre it turned out to be. Set on Preston Railway
station during the 1914—1918 war it tells the story of a group of volunteers who ran a
buffet to provide comfort to all the many members of the armed forces who passed
through Preston to and from the front lines. Although there were several other similar
establishments around the country the Preston one became famous for its hospitality
and attracted donations from everywhere. Apart from the millions who made use of the
facility, the play gave us a perception of the volunteers affected by war and how
attitudes had, of necessity, changed as the war progressed. This particular piece will,
because of its local connections, be more attractive to a Northern Audience. However I
feel it will be well received anywhere as a nostalgic record of the people who lived
through those times.