A GROUP of girls evacuated to Droitwich Spa from London for Hush Hush work have been reunited half a century later.

The women were shorthand typists and clerks for the Ministry of Defence during the Second World War. When things became too dangerous in the capital they were sent to the countryside.

The top secret work was vital to the war effort and the city girls were billeted at the former Park Hotel, which is now the Herriots, off Worcester Road.

Mary Bourne, of Stalls Farm Road, moved from Whitehall to join the women in 1941 when she was aged 19.

After the war, she and her husband - one of the desert rats who served with the seventh British armoured division in north Africa - settled in Droitwich.

Mrs Bourne kept in contact with her old pals and they have enjoyed several reunions thanks to the tireless work of fellow civil servant Norah Wood, of Warwickshire, who has played a key part in keeping everyone in contact.

The most recent get-together was on Friday August 31 at the Castle pub, in Worcester Road.

Nearly 20 women attended, most travelling many miles and even overseas to make the special occasion.

Mrs Bourne said: "Despite the war, my days as a Hush Hush girl were very happy.

"I lived two years through the blitz in the capital before coming to Droitwich.

"When I arrived people knew nothing of the war - it was a completely different way of life.

"I made great friends and we all tried to make the most of our time together.

"We loved to go partying at the town's dance hall - the Winter Gardens which stood off St Andrew's Road - and we used to entertain the town with our shows.

"I also enjoyed many hours at the cinema, which is now the library, in Victoria Square."

When the war was over, the companions said sad goodbyes and started new lives.

Mrs Bourne, a widow, has two sons and seven grandchildren.

She said: "I think many older people have interesting tales to tell about the war years but often we just keep quiet.

"War has had a big impact on the path my life has taken and my time as a Hush Hush will never be forgotten."