"This woman is described by teacher as a well-meaning soul, simple, defintitely dull; she is a milker and field worker - would rather be outside than looking after her home. She is a very bad manager. Described as the worst family in [area], ill-clad, under fed looking, muddle along in abject poverty. Awful house. Family relationships harmonious."

Relatives in survey: Husband 2.23, children 2.24, 2.26, 2.19

"This man is a dairyman, considered dull, awful family."

Relatives in survey: Children 2.24, 2.26, 2.19, wife 2.22

'This lad was very backward at school, had a low IQ, did not sit control exam. Worked in a shop for a time but could not count the change; then on a farm. Is now in the navy. [Male informant] says that he had brains but used them the wrong way; a liar and mischievious. Dr says this boy seems OK now.'

Relatives in survey: 22.3, 22.5

"This man is a railway worker. He is alcoholic, often seen drunk by [male informant]. Had an accident and broke his leg. Family life inharmonious - wife unfaithful, when he is home she deserts and vice versa."

Relatives in survey: 2.31, 2.28, 2.30

"This boy is certified as an educable defective. He attended Special Classes. He was deaf. He is now in the Navy. Formerly worked on a farm."

Relatives in survey: 2.31, 2.28, 2.29

"This boy is still in the first infant class. He suffers from asthma and dermatitis. Has missed a lot of schooling - 151 attendances out of a possible 358. Teacher does not think he is defective despite his poor performance. Father has worked as a shepherd and a gardener. Housing - biggish farm house, very remote. Probably dirty, [subject] has a dirty head."

Relatives in survey: mother 2.35

"This woman is alcoholic. Now a cleaner. She goes about with soldiers and is "not a nice woman at all". All [her] children went wild after a certain age. Dr confirms - definitely daft and queer. Daughter ran away with men at 14, gave the police a lot of trouble."

Relatives in survey: 2.42

"This boy is backward, can read and write but has no idea of number. Mixes well, not reserved, gets into mischief. Father a ploughman, hardworking man. Mother a decent soul. Clean and well fed looking."

'Queer character, a farm worker. Nurse had heard that he is a queer character, single, lived on the farm, does not know his age.'

'Cannot write his name or read the time. Definitely backward. Drives a lorry. Earns £3 a week. Father died of TB. Quite a clean house. No Public Assistance. Father was supposed to live in separate hut but he was always with the family. Minister confirms - physically and mentally weak.'

Relatives in survey: 24.6, 24.52