In the late 1950’s Josie Pickering was leading a double life. By day she was a ‘proper’ 1950’s housewife – married and looking after her young children. But at night she visited the lesbian bars and clubs of Manchester. Eventually she left her husband for another woman. Josie’s story is typical of those examined in a new book - Tomboys and Bachelor Girls 1945 - 71 by Rebecca Jennings - which looks at the lesbian history of post war Britain. Clare Jenkins has spoken to Josie Pickering at her home in Manchester and Jenni talks to author - Rebecca Jennings - and Lisa Power - Policy Director of the Terrence Higgins Trust who came out in the late 1970’s - about the history of lesbianism in post war Britain.
Tomboys and Bachelor Girls: A lesbian history of post-war Britain 1945 - 71 by Rebecca Jennings is published by Manchester University Press ISBN 978-0-7190-7544-5
