If you lived in County Down in the 70s...

[Minimalme]

I'm looking for context about life in County Down (or Belfast) in the 70s.

My English parents moved me and my sister to Bangor in 1975 when I was two. We left 3 years later.

We lived in Weatherby - my Dad worked in retail and had a good job. Something happened and he took a job as a manager in Stewarts Supermarket in NI. I suspect he was fired and because they were desperate for retail managers, they took him without a reference.

Both my parents were abusive with a complete disregard for our safety. But even for them, it seems a hugely risky move.

My Dad was of Catholic descent but didn't practise, while my Mum was a practicing Catholic. We had a Irish surname which was associated with a Catholic area.

We were English, living in a Protestant area as Catholics. I remember starting (a Protestant) school and my Mum explaining that some of the children might not speak to me.

I have just watched 'Peace Babies' on BBC1 and it made me think about some of the things I would have experienced as a young child.

I am no contact with my entire family so no one to ask. My only memories were our lovely garden and my first (and best) school teacher. It was the best time in my childhood.

Did my parents take a risk moving there - I'd just like to understand a bit more about it.

Many thanks if anyone can help.

Edited by MNHQ to remove identifying information

The Loyalist paramilitary feud where they've recently split into the UDA and Real UFF (RUFF).

Ah thank you.

@LadyEloise1 if you do a search you'll find the details, for example: https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/shots-fired-at-flat-in-newtownards-linked-to-ongoing-north-down-drugs-feud/1899379513.html

There's always been a strong/active paramilitary element in the area, well known families, but in recent years it has evolved a lot, and now includes both drugs trade and legitimate businesses.