I remember so well my Dad and his brother chopping a tree down in what had been Ward End Hall Estate , where Overpool Road is now. The tree fell onto the ice of the pool, and didn't even crack it it was so thick. They, and several other men , cut the log up into pieces small enough to go on the fire at home, took the place of coal which was in very short supply due to the severe winter conditions. In fact I had to go down to Saltley Gas works and queue up for a pramful of coke during this time. Good old times.
- not b. likely.
Strange to think my adult kids have never seen a piece of coal or coke !