Just 3½ Miles
The Memoirs of Percy Harwood

Introduction

"Just 3 ½ Miles." - The Memories of Percy Harwood

After lots of hard work the garage 50'x30' was duly built for £325. One hundred pounds I had saved in five years, one hundred I borrowed from my sister and the builder L. Gray of Lake allowed me to pay off the rest as I earned it. The garage was 3½ miles from East Cowes. 3½ from Newport. 3½ miles from Ryde.

We have kindly been given permission by Stephen Harwood to reproduce the above book written by his father Percy (imaged left) around 1987. It is an autobiography of Percy’s life growing up in East Cowes from around the time of the First World War, his involvement in the WW2 and the development of the large motor trade complex which can be found to the top of Lushington Hill, Wootton Bridge.

It is a fascinating insight into life in the early part of the 20th century in East Cowes. It also allows one to understand how Percy became involved in the motor trade.

The book is not only a personal autobiography but contains much information about the early history of East Cowes and Wootton and is recommended reading.