Hi Lindyloo
I read with interest your schooldays at Amberley, I thought I knew most of the Alum Rock/Washwood Heath area but I must admit I had never heard of Amberley until this forum. I'm afraid my education was at St. Saviour's Infants and Leigh Road SM.
With all the excellent shops in the 'Rock' during the 40's and 50's by far the one I most frequented was Oldacres, dad and myself were always tinkering around which generally required a trip to Oldacres for such items from nails or screws to sand and cement, we even had our tiled fire place from there.I recall one very striking lady that worked there, she had black hair, brown eyes and always wore an immaculate white coat, this was during the 50's so I assume she was either your mother or aunty.
I'm interested in any photos of shops in the Rock, particularly shops between the 'Gate' and Bowyer Road, like you I would love one of Oldacres (happy memories). In the meantime I will continue my search. Phil(47) as done a great job supplying photos, perhaps there are others out there with similar collections.
Regards Saddlebag