The Lairs that was 1974

When I took this picture in 1974, I had no idea of the changes that would take place, and how precious it would be to me one day.

I pointed the camera through the aircraft window and snapped the photo, capturing Pipers Vale swimming pool nestled on the hillside towards the left, Gainsborough lane in its full splendour near the centre, the allotments to the far right, and immortalising them forever.

This to me, is the lairs at its best, the place I spent most of my childhood. Swimming in the open-air pool, or swinging from elm trees to a backdrop of linnets singing from a gorsy hillside, the sun beating down, a cool breeze from the river, it was a magical place. I was developing a bond with nature that would last forever.

Even today, I find it difficult to understand how living nearby can be described as an underprivileged area. I wouldn't swap my childhood for anyone. I know my dad had to dig deep in his pockets sometimes for me to go swimming (it cost sixpence then) but he always managed it! People were less materialistic and families' priorities were different. I think present generations are losing out more today, playing computer games in a kind of recreational simulation. They're missing out on real-life adventures that I was lucky enough to have and enjoy.

The lairs has given me such a lot in my life (still does) and I believe we can all benefit and fully appreciate how important it is to have places like this set aside from development. Places where you can free yourself from an increasingly stressful and materialistic world. These places really are worth fighting for.

Mick Cooper