Many thanks for your mail.
This may be where you're experiencing problems.
Roydon is very close to the Hertfordshire boarders so you may find that some records are kept in Herts not Essex.
My son was at school with the Gumble children, I've asked if he can remember anything but at the moment nothing comes to mind.
Next time I visit friends I will ask for you.
Roydon is only about 45 minutes drive from Chelmsford, it boarders Harlow new town, you may find some of the Gumbles listed in Harlow telephone directory, if not try Nazeing, Hoddesdon, Broxborne.
Quite a few gypsy families settled in Roydon, some used to come to school on horses, the horses were taken back by an old boy who had led the children to school.
My sons were taught to ride by one family but sadly I can't remember their names. Every year the families used to go to the Derby to trade, business was done by a spit on the hands and then a shake of the hands. Regards Jackie (now in Somerset)