On the subject of Lily coming to Cynthia and Walter's house in Kent to do some decorating, by Barry Clare:
"I do remember the week we had a visit from Aunt Lily being all taken up by decorating, which I thought at the time to be a bit strange for somebody to come miles, and not have a relaxing week, but get stuck in to hard work. I remember us all being ordered about by this very strict (I thought) lady - but the job certainly got done, and it served as a threat that decorating got kept up "or should we send for Aunt Lily again?" "No, No - I'll do it straight away!"
Dad never forgot being sent scurrying out for more stuff as ordered, nor did I forget scraping distemper off and rubbing down with an abrasive block and bucket of cold water. The threat bit was always brought up by Mum if any slight reluctance was shown at the suggestion of decorating, although I do recollect that in later years she did take on decorating tasks herself, being used to cutting accurately material. In all the years of dressmaking she was good at getting straight edges and trimming round awkward bits."