In this week’s Blast from the Past, Bourne Hall curator Jeremy Harte explains why this item was key to having a popular social gathering in 1930s Stoneleigh.

"From its beginnings in 1933, Stoneleigh was a social kind of place.

"A wide variety of clubs and associations provided the glue that held together the new community and gave the incomers a chance to meet up.

"If you didn’t fancy cycling, cricket or the dance club, there was always the possibility of a hand of cards. 

"Among events organised by the newly founded Stoneleigh Residents’ Association were whist drives, and the card game bridge was always popular.

"This little trump indicator was used by Elsie Palmer, who moved to 23 Chestnut Avenue in the early days of the suburb. 

"It has a pointer for the four card suits - clubs, diamonds, hearts, and spades; and for ‘no trumps’, when no higher card could be played in the game. 

"Indicators like these were a very popular thirties’ accessory and came in a variety of creative designs."


Can you guess what this item was used for?

Your Local Guardian: Can you guess what this item was used for?

Email hmatharu@london.newsquest.co.uk with your suggestions and return to epsomguardian.co.uk next week to find out.