| Balshaw's Grammar School |
| brian_forshaw | I attended Balshaw's from 1957 to 1964.
Would like to hear from anyone who remembers me.
If you look at the Friends Reunited website you will find Bill Elliot, Sue Nixon, and me.
What happened to Rodney Blackhurst, Stan Turbett, Peter Baldwin?
|
| noel | I was at Balshaw's at the same time as you Tosh. Joined BTR after school life became a polymer chemist never looked forward since 8-)
Stuart Parker is the only old school mate I kept in touch with though
I live in Lostock Hall ( or Farington Moss not sure, right on the border line)
|
| brian_forshaw | quote:
I was at Balshaw's at the same time as you Tosh. Joined BTR after school life became a polymer chemist never looked forward since 8-)
Stuart Parker is the only old school mate I kept in touch with though
I live in Lostock Hall ( or Farington Moss not sure, right on the border line)
|
| brian_forshaw | Thank you for replying to my message. I have to confess that I do not remember your name but I remember Stuart Parker. There was one occasion when a girl called Carter was absent from school and when the teacher was calling the register it came out out as "Carter away and Parker here."
I haven't heard my school nickname since I left Balshaw's.
Were we in the same form? I am racking my brains trying to remember you?
The names I remember were Bill Elliot, Stan Turbett, Rodney Blackhurst, Peter Baldwin, Sue Nixon, Susan Baxendale. If you look on the Friends Reunited website you will see information about some of these.
I would be interested to hear any of your memories about Balshaw's and if you have any information about former pupils.
|
| noel | quote:
Thank you for replying to my message. I have to confess that I do not remember your name but I remember Stuart Parker. There was one occasion when a girl called Carter was absent from school and when the teacher was calling the register it came out out as "Carter away and Parker here."
Like that one Brian I actually lentyou a pair of cricket whites on the last day at school we had a game first team against second I think can you not remember that? I was in 1b,2a,3a,4a,5a,LIV and UIV . Best friends with Robin Bourne Mick Gray , Barry Chilton, David Blundle ( the big swat!! ) Remember Lucille Wilford . corr.
I married Margaret Iddon who used to know you. I recall you had a yonger brother but can't remember his name . I was in Worden House . I 've just looked at the school photo we had taken in 1957 remember that great big photo and you are within touching distance of me.
I used to play for the school second at cricket, opening bowler . Pop Brown was games teacher, you can write direct on neckton@blueyonder.co.uk my addy.
|
| Lady Griffin | Any relation to Joan???
|
| Lady Griffin | Hi Brian if you're still there.My brain has been working overtime and can vaguely remember Forshaws living on Station Rd ,Bamber Bridge.Florists?
It's a very Lancashire name and probably there are thousands of you.
At least your mates remembered you though.
As for this Pop Brown.There was a very young and handsome teacher name of Brown when I was there at the old school.Surely not the same one.Mad on cricket.
|
| noel | quote:
Hi Brian if you're still there.My brain has been working overtime and can vaguely remember Forshaws living on Station Rd ,Bamber Bridge.Florists?
It's a very Lancashire name and probably there are thousands of you.
At least your mates remembered you though.
As for this Pop Brown.There was a very young and handsome teacher name of Brown when I was there at the old school.Surely not the same one.Mad on cricket.
#
Don't know what's happened to Brian Lady G he didn't reply after I told him I lent him my cricket whites on the last day. Don't think they'd fit me anyway now. Pop Brown, yes he was the PE teacher Rugby and Cricket must be the same one. Brian lived at Forshaw's Farm I think it was along Leyland Lane. My wife used to know him and his family from her younger days.
|
| anacortesdamp | "Pop" Brown was the PE/sports teacher all the time I was at Balshaw's and then some. His son Graham was in my class through Fox lane Juniors and Balshaw's There was a younger son (Tim?) and a daughter. They lived in the top part of Crawford Avenue. Pop died several years ago. Mrs. Brown still lives in Leyland, I think.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
|
| noel | quote:
"Pop" Brown was the PE/sports teacher all the time I was at Balshaw's and then some. His son Graham was in my class through Fox lane Juniors and Balshaw's There was a younger son (Tim?) and a daughter. They lived in the top part of Crawford Avenue. Pop died several years ago. Mrs. Brown still lives in Leyland, I think.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
Yes that's the one Frank. Tim was a couple of years below me and a useful left handed bat ( took great delight bowling him when his dad was umpire in a inter-house cricket match). Sorry to hear pop Brown's died, I thought he may still be alive. When it was my dad's funeral back in the eighties I was in the cortege with Mackenna's undertakers and we passed Daddy Bull's old house on Canberra Rd. complete with it's window full of books, a real literary character was Mr Bull. I pointed his house out to Mr. Mckenna and told him it was my old English teacher from Balshaws. I remember saying he seemed to live in another world. He does now was the reply, I buried him a few weeks ago.
|
| Lady Griffin | Well at last someone that I remember from way back.Mr Brown was in his first year teaching I think when he took me for history.I was 10.
He had a great sense of humour and the girls especially thought he was a bit of alright.So much so that we would scrap to see who could stay behind after school to chase the cricket balls.Sorry to hear the news.
There were many real characters in those days.You mentioned A.J Bull.I still have a book of his poetry somewhere.He was my English teacher too.A great contemporary of C.S Hilditch who once stood for Parliament I think in Blackpool.Hiditch came out to New Zealand on an educational tour and I met him briefly in Wellington when he retired. He and Wilkie- B.L Wilkinson- were also there for a long time.Wilkie gave up on me where Maths was concerned .He said girls could never master the subject.But he did teach me a fair bit about Classical Music and took a group of us to the Concerts in Preston.Wilkie played the piano for Assemblies many will remember.
Miss Whewell was the Art teacher who offered 5 shillings to any cricketer who could break a window in the top storey of the teaching block.
Miss Probert was the girls'PE teacher-used to make us hang from the wallbars until our arms nearly popped out of the sockets.I hid when it was time for PE and got away with it for a while.There was a little room under the stairs which was quite a success sometimes.Also John Willie -WJ Downer -Classics who produced many of the school plays.
|
| Lady Griffin | Maybe Brian has gone on one of those charter flights to sunny climes.
|
| brian_forshaw | Hello Noel and Lady G.
Apologies for the delayed response but I have been on holiday.
I still do not remember Noel at school but I am flattered that he remembers me.
I remember pop Brown, the P.E. and games teacher. He was quite a gruff character and it was rumoured that he was in the SAS.
I have happy memories of school rugby which he organised.
I also remember Mr. Bull, Mr. Hilditch, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Black, Miss Milroy, Ginger Smith, Mr Downer.
I also attended Fox Lane Junior School when the head teacher was Mr Fenton. Mr Hewitson was one of the teachers who also organised the schol football team.
|
| noel | quote:
Well at last someone that I remember from way back.Mr Brown was in his first year teaching I think when he took me for history.
I remember most of those names LG. Miss Probert wasn't there butthere was a Mrs Pickersgill who took the girls for PE. Joe Leathley ( we called him Joe Egg for some odd reason) Fat Stan Black the chain-smoking music teacher. Wilkie helped me a lot with maths I went from A greade down to C I was doing so badly, eventually I passed A level with a high mark . He used to do amateur photography as well. I'll say no more about that. Oh and there was a teacher who had to walk assisted by crutches , a lady teacher took maths can't remember her name.
|
| rocketmanjohn | Am I right in thinking that Miss Probert became Mrs. Pickersgill ? Mr Brown once told me that he was an ex Commando instructor. Miss Bromley taught French as well as Miss Milroy. I've just come back from the French island of St. Martin, I was amazed how much French I could remember.
I also went to Fox Lane and remember ratty Rawlinson, Mrs. Gaskell and Miss Wane. I also played for the football team under Mr Hewitson, we won the championship that year,[1954 I think], I still have the medal.
Rocketmanjohn
|
| noel | quote:
Am I right in thinking that Miss Probert became Mrs. Pickersgill ? Mr Brown once told me that he was an ex Commando instructor. Miss Bromley taught French as well as Miss Milroy. Rocketmanjohn
I'm not surprised about pop Brown he always struck me as a hard nut. Remember one day somebody had forgotten their pumps, Clive Britton, for PE. Brown made him suspend himself from the top wall bars while he (pop Brown) threw medicine balls at him you remember the weight of those things!!
Miss Bromley once told me off for doing my homework on a sunday. Turnes out she was some sort of religious lay-preacher .
|
| Thornley | You all appear to have very good memories! I too went to Fox Lane and Balshaws, although I must add that this was in the late 60's and the 70's. I left Balshaws in 1977, some of the names you mention I have never heard of but Mrs Pickersgill and Stan Black I do remember. Miss Wane is the only name I recognise from Fox Lane though. I visited Balshaws a few years ago and although a lot of the build has changed it still prompted many memories.
|
| noel | quote:
You all appear to have very good memories! I too went to Fox Lane and Balshaws, although I must add that this was in the late 60's and the 70's. I left Balshaws in 1977, some of the names you mention I have never heard of but Mrs Pickersgill and Stan Black I do remember. Miss Wane is the only name I recognise from Fox Lane though. I visited Balshaws a few years ago and although a lot of the build has changed it still prompted many memories.
My long term memory is very good but ask me where I left my car keys/car/wife I've had it. Keith Smith ? had just started as I went into 6th form, ginger headed games teacher he retired only a couple of years ago I believe. Other younger ones Miss Leach taught chemistry, Mr Barnes biology Wilcocks taught French and Maths , Rigby Physics. I never visited the old school again, the day I left was my last day there.
|
| Lady Griffin | Eheu! Eheu! Postume Postume labuntur anni.In other words Time flies.
With apologies to Horace. Am I the only one who can get back to before the war!
A frightening thought.Maybe I'm the only wrinkly with a computer in the register.Sorry you call us Silver Surfers don't you.
Ginner Smith aka Keith was in the class above me at school.Even danced with him once at one of those House parties.Remember them.He was described as a red headed bundle of enery when he played for Preston Grasshoppers.
Patsy May Leach was in my class and we played tennis together along with Julia Walmsley whose father had a shop I think near the cinema in Leyland sold sweets and tobacco from memory.
I remember Miss Brom and Miss Milroy.Miss Rahill was the senior mistress and didn't let me be a prefect cos I was too quiet.Never recovered from that rejection and left soon after.
Also haven't been back since.
Got into trouble all the time.One science master wouldn't mark my exam paper cos I wrote in sea-green ink.It was such a pretty colour too.I think it was Quink Ink.So my Dad was furious cos I got no marks on my report.Furious with me that is.
Oh well.
|
| noel | Interesting to see that you knew Keith Smith and Pat Leach while they were still pupils. Pat was a new teacher and a bit timid at first. Miss Rahill was there also . Keith Smith I think played for Lancashire as well, took the place kicks.
Remember the toffee shop well , just by the roundabout that's there now , used to be a treat every Sunday going fot some black and white mints. My didn't I live dangerously.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Thornley | I remember Mr Smith too, his wife taught needle work and Home ecc, etc.Their children went to Balshaws too, a nice family.
|
| Lady Griffin | Hi V.Yes I do remember that Gwynneth Hall eventually married Keith.
I can almost see them now twirling round the dance floor at house parties.I have lots of photos taken at the school reunions and they are usually in them.Sent by Connie Rowley (was Sumner) a friend of mine from way back who attends all the do's.
I believe there is one coming up in September.If I win the Lottery will be there.
Watch this space.
|
| Lady Griffin | Hi V.Yes I do remember that Gwynneth Hall eventually married Keith.
I can almost see them now twirling round the dance floor at house parties.I have lots of photos taken at the school reunions and they are usually in them.Sent by Connie Rowley (was Sumner) a friend of mine from way back who attends all the do's.
I believe there is one coming up in September.If I win the Lottery will be there.
Watch this space.
|
| Lady Griffin | Sorry I seem to have developed a habit of sending double doses of mail.
Julia Walmsley and her family took me on a trip to Knutsford May Festival once.Don't think I had ever been in a car before nor as far afield as that.And since they had a supply of toffees which were hard to get then it was even more of a treat.
Knutsford is a lovely memory lots of Morris Dancing and of course ye old Maypole.
|
| Thornley | What wonderful memories, I hope you win the lottery and get the chance to see the dancing again. They were a lovely couple and well respected in the school. I wonder where they are now?
|
| Lady Griffin | Hi V.
Had been told that Keith and Gwynneth live in Cumbria now.
Barbara Wright -was Ward- Head girl when I left mails me occasionally with news.
One of my favourite teachers died fairly recently Tom Speakman.He didn't mind the sea green ink.!!!!Really rankles that after all this time. Tom evidently tried never to miss a get-together.
Reunions are not really my thing but I enjoy the reminiscing.
There are some old Balshavians here in NZ and maybe I'll look them up in time.
Cheers
|
| noel | He was a pleasant chap Tom Speakman, small inoffensive and always had a smile. Sorry to hear about that. Who was the teacher who had to walk with crutches, was that Miss Rahill? She taught Maths . Strange how Brian doesn't remember me, I can't get over that as we used to converse quite a lot at school. He was always smiling and joking, a good laugh.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Very strange about Brian ,Noel.Did you notice he goes off into long silences .Must be the cricket gear.
|
| noel | quote:
Very strange about Brian ,Noel.Did you notice he goes off into long silences .Must be the cricket gear.
Yes I did but didn't want to mention it.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Does anyone know what happened to the statue of the Greek youth examining his toe.
The white statue stood-or posed- at the entrance to the Hall.
Is he still there?
Maybe someone may remember the time he had his toe nails painted red.
|
| noel | quote:
Does anyone know what happened to the statue of the Greek youth examining his toe.
The white statue stood-or posed- at the entrance to the Hall.
Is he still there?
Maybe someone may remember the time he had his toe nails painted red.
I hoped nobody would mention that Glad it was only his toe nails painted red.!! It was sat down as I remember it with one leg raised up resting on his other while he gazed at his foot. Wouldn't have been so bad if he'd had any cloths on.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| anacortesdamp | What memories. I was never that fond of Balshaw's. I made the choice of engineering as a career, so everyone except Bill Rigby (Physics) wrote me off. I had requested Pure Maths, Applied Maths and Physics as my 6th form subjects and was enrolled for French, English and Latin! Mr. Oldland thought I was better at languages and being an interpreter would be a better career. I'd failed O-level Latin!
Unfortunately, I got off on the wrong foot with Mr. Wilkinson, who took me for both Maths subjects. His first report card (Christmas) said I'd never be any good at Maths, so I should leave and get a job. I went to English Electric as a student apprentice the following April.
It was interesting to see the changes between my years there and my brother Colin's, who came through 8 years later. There were only about three staff members who taught me still on the staff when he went. When I started, there were several who had been at the original Balshaw's school on the corner of Golden Hill and School Lane who had taught my Dad.
I can imagine Brom getting a bit ticked at someone doing their homework on a Sunday! She was a local preacher in the Methodist Church circuit. I got to know her fairly well after leaving school since we were members of the Turpn Green Church - she was a lot nicer socially. She died fairly recently in her mid-90's, I think.
Frank Damp
Anacortes
|
| anacortesdamp | I remembered two other things after my last posting.
Mrs. Pickersgill's maiden name was Hutchings, not Probert. I had Miss Probert as home-room teacher in 1C - we were in the pre-fab building on the bank behind the boys toilets and bike shed. I don't remember her much after that first year - certainly she didn't teach any of my classes.
I think the teacher who used crutches was the art teacher, Miss Whewell. Because of limited mobility, I don't think she taught any other subjects. I believe she died in 1959 or '60, while my sister was still at Balshaw's. I remember Wilkie and Mr. Wilson doing Maths. Mr. Wilson also did history, along with Mr. Morgan.
Frank Damp
|
| Lady Griffin | Mr Oldland.Now there's a blast from the past.Things were tough in those days.
Victor Ustace made us all learn the 53rd Chapter of Isaiah off by heart and talked incessantly about vicarious suffering.For about 50 ten or eleven year olds it was all very enlightening.You will appreciate that Noel from your St Ambrose experience.
I remember he questioned our whole form one by one cos someone put orange peel in the classroom bin.Small beer when you consider the misdemeanors today.We were terrified.He had these metal heel tips which clattered and he paced up and down gown a flutter.
I only stood up to him once .That was the day I left.
My sister was sent to Penwortham Girls' as I'd blotted the family copy book.
Miss Whewell was always the Art teacher while I was there and played a mean game of tennis at that time.In fact Tennis is my best memory.
|
| noel | quote:
.He had these metal heel tips which clattered and he paced up and down gown a flutter.
I remember those steel tips well. Every morning as we sat in assembly waiting for him to arrive there would suddenly be a click of the steel tips and we knew he was in the hall. Entry of the gladiator. He retired before I left and Mr. Bleasdale took over.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Frank ,everyone got on the wrong side of Wilky but he could draw perfect concentric circles.
|
| Caroline | I only just discivered this topic! I think I remember 'Tosh' at Balshaw's- I left in 65 , did anyone do Art with Ralph May?
The teacher with the crutches was Miss Lewis, always preceded into the classroom by a girl carrying her bag..she used to say of Algabra problems 'This one's rather Fun!!' which it wasn't..
Miss Whewell had a rather fine moustache, we had to design interlacing strapwork....
'Daddy' Bull used to have milkbottles in the window of his house. At the beginning of each term he had a clean suit which we used to watch being slowly stained over the weeks with various substances. He used to write poems about his girl pupils, apparantly...
Mr.Wilkinson said he could take a budgie and it would be able to repeat by now what he'd been telling me-'but you can't, Johnson!'Called me a toad and sent me out in the corridor for weeping, luckier young girls got taken to Blackpool on days out- yes I remember the Photography bur wasn't going to mention it!......
|
| noel | There were a few excentric male teachers there, Wilson being one.
Daddy Bull debating whether you should use a comma or a semi-colon.
Wilkie used to hold the chess circle and took great pride in playing us all at once, spending about 5 seconds at each board.
Always won!! Remember Wilson chasing a wasp around the room with a window pole. Never got to really like Mr. Hilditch there was something grim about him, however walking my dog through the woods in 1987 or 88 I came across him going for a stroll. He remembered me from 1963 O level General Studies-I think all the class failed , it was a big disaster, the only O I failed. However we exchanged pleasantries . Sadly a few months later I read he had died.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| brian_forshaw | I am flattered that you all miss my contributions so much but I do have a very interesting and time consuming job to do. My work now is concerned with behaviour support in schools. I know so much about bad behaviour from my time at Balshaws and looking at the comments in this forum I learned most of it from you.
I have fond memories of Mr Wilson when he produced the school plays. He was never my subject teacher so when I helped him with his Cecil B. de Mille productions, mainly backstage, it was easier to have some fun with him. I remember once dropping a ball of string on his head when I was up a ladder fixing some scenery on the stage. The Mikado, The Importance of being Earnest and Pygmalion are the productions I was involved with. Actually had a small part in Pygmalion. I feel terrible about about not remembering Noel. I travel over to Leyland quite regularly and as you live nearby, perhaps I should call in sometime and buy you a pint. I enjoy reading all your postings.
|
| noel | quote:
. I feel terrible about about not remembering Noel. I travel over to Leyland quite regularly and as you live nearby, perhaps I should call in sometime and buy you a pint. I enjoy reading all your postings.
Don't worry about it Brian, more important things in life. You probably wouldn't recognise me now anyway, Stuart Parker didn't.
Do you remember my wife Margaret Iddon from Dunkirk Lane, 3 years younger than us. She works for Lancashire Educational Psychology Dept. now dealing with problem children, as a secretary though , merely issuing reports.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| rocketmanjohn | Wilkie can't have been all that bad, I never did well in maths at Balshaws, but just a year or two later I ended up teaching maths to the dimmos in my year at Harris 'Tec while the lecturer got on with the rest of the class. I never failed a year at the 'Tec so some of Wilkies lessons must have sunk in. I remember well that he always wrote in bright green ink.
Mr. Hildich was indeed very strange, but I think it was sarcasm really, to deep for my mind to comprehend. But again, he must have kindled something in me, history is the one subject I read about all the time, can't get enough of it.
They were certainly a bunch of eccentrics, sometimes terrifying, always entertaining.
John
|
| noel | quote:
Wilkie can't have been all that bad, I never did well in maths at Balshaws, but just a year or two later I ended up teaching maths to the dimmos in my year at Harris 'Tec while the lecturer got on with the rest of the class. I never failed a year at the 'Tec so some of Wilkies lessons must have sunk in. I remember well that he always wrote in bright green ink.
That explains why he didn't mind Lady G's green ink. I always liked Wilkie, I got kicked out of A stream maths into C stream in the fifth year he taught the C stream. He took me from potentially failing O level to getting a high pass level, later in the 6th I passed Pure Maths with another high grade. Sadly Mr. Bennison couldn't instill any interest at all in chemistry and I failed that though went on to become a chemist later.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | I think Bennison was the one who didn't like my ink.Grrh!!!!!
He told me I was a troublemaker always wanting to be different.He was probably right though.
Can't understand it really because I was sooooo quiet. VUO told me I was dreaming if I wanted to teach as I was too inward looking and would be better off in the mills.Wish I could tell him I made it despite him.He really got my dander up with that.
.
|
| Lady Griffin | Pleased to see you are back,Brian.What a great job you have-real missionary work.
|
| Lady Griffin | Actually, Brian, could have done with some one like you when all these teachers were getting at me.There were no counsellors then to help students with their traumas.We just suffered in silence.Even prefects could stand in judgement and had their own little court.
Now the pendulum has swung too far and kids know they have the upper hand.
I bet you would have approved of my ink.At least I did the work.It wasn't like Wilky's green but a lovely turquoisy colour.Those were the days when you carried your ink bottle around with you.
Sea Green is Good-Blue is Bad.
|
| Lady Griffin |
Actually, Brian, fountain pens, blotting paper and ink were a good source of fun.1001 things you can do with etc.
|
| noel | quote:
I bet you would have approved of my ink.At least I did the work.It wasn't like Wilky's green but a lovely turquoisy colour.Those were the days when you carried your ink bottle around with you.
Sea Green is Good-Blue is Bad.
Petty bureaucracy innit. I remember Rodney Blackhurst being sent home for wearing his hair too long. And if you were seen without a cap coming to school big trouble!!! Looking at the lengths of the girls' skirts these days I'm surprised they are allowed in. The fashion seems to be to mini skirts with long socks coming above the knee.
Wish I were still at school.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Congrats Noel as you near your century.Don't worry I'll let you stay ahead.My sister comes out here in 4 weeks so will be too busy talking.
Cheers.
|
| Lady Griffin | Re short skirts.At my first teaching post one of my extra- curricular activities was to have all the girls kneel down while myself and another teacher measured the length of their skirts above the ground with a ruler.And that was a girls' school.
I hated doing it and couldn't help remembering our gymslips about 6 inches from the ground as we would grow into them.I wore my first gymslip for about 5 years and even then it wasn't short.
Can't even think about the huge bloomers we wore for gym.You could cover your head with them if they were pulled up sufficiently.
|
| noel | quote:
Congrats Noel as you near your century.Don't worry I'll let you stay ahead.My sister comes out here in 4 weeks so will be too busy talking.
Cheers.
Hi Lady Griffin, wondered what you meant then, my 100th post. Gosh how observant you are.
Lostock Hall Carnival approaches on the 6th July , I'm going to get a few photos if you are interested.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Thanks,Noel.Great stuff.Do you have a digital camera.If so you could send them via dot.com.Am not advanced enough for those things yet but know how to receive them.
My aunt who has recently passed away lived on Leyland Rd right across from the Tardy shops.She always had a great view.
One of my many great nieces was a carnival princess last year.
Cheers.By the way I shall be shouting you all a boddies when I come over to get my two free ones.It could be some time yet so don't hold your breaths.
LG
|
| noel | quote:
Thanks,Noel.Great stuff.Do you have a digital camera.If so you could send them via dot.com.Am not advanced enough for those things yet but know how to receive them.
Yes LG ,my wife bought it for me at Christmas . I have a web address to post them on so they can be viewed directly on the web, it's a MSN "my photos " thingy but I get 30MB of space, very handy for storing photos . But I'll post them direct to you on your NZ address.
address . Any ideas how long the festival has been running?
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Thanks Noel,
Don't know about the festival date but will consult one of my few remaining old rellies.
LG
|
| Caroline | I have to say YES, Wilkie was that bad!
Mr Hilditch did look grim, but we had him for History for a year, I dreaded that , but he was nice. I wasn't very interested in the subject till he taught us.
Mr. Wilson was certainly a one-off....most of his lessons consisted of his telling jokes, wartime reminiscences, just once in a while he would clamp down and put us all in Detto. I'm glad you brought up the thing about prefect's meeetings, Lady G., what a cruel system ,where those who'd had more than 5 detentions were hauled up before them and humiliated. I was a sub-prefect and was reported by a fellow 'classmate' who was a full prefect for not having my hat on in Leyland after school...
|
| Lady Griffin | Hi Caroline.I got lost again in the Agnosticism forum where I posted my reply re prefects.
Love your descriptions of the French countryside.
|
| noel | Prefects were abolished the year I entered 6th form. My chance to hit back after 5 years if intimidation cruelly snatched away. grrrrrr.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| anacortesdamp | Balshaw's Panoramic Photo
I checked into the Balshaw's web site last night and found, under "Old Photos" a 4-piece scan of what is identified as the 1959 school photo. It's one of those they took with a motorised scanning camera. I'm not convinced it was the 1959 picture. Although I can't find myself on it, several of my classmates who didn't go to 6th form at the end of the 1956/57 year are there. The only teachers under 60 are Keith Smith and Pat Leach. Miss Whewell is on it, and I'm pretty sure she died during the 1958/59 school year. Also there are Mr. Bennison and Miss Rahill, both of whom retired about that time. Valerie Metcalfe is head girl, judging by her position in the line-up.
If anyone is interested in checking identities, the web site is at http://www.balshaws.lancsngfl.ac.uk/. I'd love to hear from anyone, either in this forum or directly by e-mail, who can pick out people they knew and can identify the year it was taken.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
|
| Lady Griffin | Will definitely check out that site Frank and the photo.Thanks.It was quite a ritual as the camera moved from one side to the other.
PML Patsy Leach would have left roughly when I did in 1953 so she could well have been teaching at Balshaw's in about 56.
I didn't think Bennison was around much after the early 50's .He seemed quite elderly when I first went to B but then the young teachers were all away in the war and just starting to reappear in 46.
Cheers
LG
|
| Lady Griffin | Just checked and printed out .Will study later.Saw Bennison and Spotted Miss Milroy and Anne Doherty.
LG
|
| noel | quote:
Balshaw's Panoramic Photo
I checked into the Balshaw's web site last night and found, under "Old Photos" a 4-piece scan of what is identified as the 1959 school photo. It's one of those they took with a motorised scanning camera. I'm not convinced it was the 1959 picture. Although I can't find myself on it, several of my classmates who didn't go to 6th form at the end of the 1956/57 year are there. The only teachers under 60 are Keith Smith and Pat Leach. Miss Whewell is on it, and I'm pretty sure she died during the 1958/59 school year. Also there are Mr. Bennison and Miss Rahill, both of whom retired about that time. Valerie Metcalfe is head girl, judging by her position in the line-up.
If anyone is interested in checking identities, the web site is at http://www.balshaws.lancsngfl.ac.uk/. I'd love to hear from anyone, either in this forum or directly by e-mail, who can pick out people they knew and can identify the year it was taken.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
Frank,I'm pretty certain that is the 1957 photo which was taken the year I joined Balshaws. I can see me and all my first year colleagues on there, even Brian Forshaw who can't remember me!! next to Mick Gray
Roger Roocroft is there, I was best friends with his brother Neil. Roger and Valerie Metcalfe married and produced Amanda Roocroft the famous opera singer. I've got that self same photo somewhere,I'll dig it out and let you know for certain. Did you know Anthony Bourne? He was head boy around that time, I was a good friend of his younger brother Robin. Anthony was killed in a car crash in America , a very intelligent man , sad loss. Thanks for that URL it's very interesting one.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| noel | If you look at photo 1 "1959" I am next to top row, 6th from right. then left of me as you look at the photo is Bill Elliot who is now a well known golf magazine editor, Mick Gray, and smiling cheekily as he always was, BRIAN FORSHAW or Tosh as we all called him.
Gawd I look miserable.Roger Roocroft is 3rd row up, 8th left from the Teachers the big lad was called Mackay or Macauley-3rd left from teachers
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Caroline | I'll check out the photo and get back...if I'm on it, it's got to be 58 or after as I started Balshaw's then.I was taught by Miss Whewell for a year or two, so it can't be 57. Remember Macauley being head boy, probably in my first year.......
|
| noel | quote:
I'll check out the photo and get back...if I'm on it, it's got to be 58 or after as I started Balshaw's then.I was taught by Miss Whewell for a year or two, so it can't be 57. Remember Macauley being head boy, probably in my first year.......
I've found my copy Caroline. It's May 1959 as the web-site says.
I kept looking at it at work on the web ( no I don't actually work at work) thinking I was older then some of the lads. One nearthe front with white/blond hair who we called foggy for some reason was a year below me, he became opening bowler for the first team. I only managed opening for the second. So many faces I know on there.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | The other photo is interesting as well with an assortment of uniform.The picture looks familiar.
Is it different uniforms over the years.The boy looks very young.
There's the panama and the velour on the same shot.
The summer dress used to be green, yellow or blue check made up in your own style- The colours of the Houses- but don't remember there being any red.
What was the name of the shop where you had to buy everything uniform -wise?
|
| anacortesdamp | How'd it be if we move this topic to the Leyland Chat forum? Can you fix that Martin, please, starting with my post about the picture.
I will try to put together a row by row list of everyone we can identify between us all. I won't post it, as it would get way too big, but I'll give status reports from time to time. I'll e-mail the current version to anyone who requests, after I've built it up a bit. Give me a couple of weeks to get enough data to make it worthwhile.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
|
| noel | quote:
How'd it be if we move this topic to the Leyland Chat forum? Can you fix that Martin, please, starting with my post about the picture.
I will try to put together a row by row list of everyone we can identify between us all. I won't post it, as it would get way too big, but I'll give status reports from time to time. I'll e-mail the current version to anyone who requests, after I've built it up a bit. Give me a couple of weeks to get enough data to make it worthwhile.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
I trhink both ideas are good ones Frank. I'll start racking my brains. We should maybe apply a row number and seat number so we can identify each person.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| anacortesdamp | I will organise the list of names on the basis of :
1. Picture segment 1 thru 4
2. Row, counting from the bottom of the picture
3. Position in the row, starting with number 1 at the left end of the frame.
Where the scans obviously overlap, I'll flag the repeats. Where we haven't yet idetified the person, I'll put in a string of ???
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
|
| noel | I've jotted a few I think are correct Frank, to start off. I've done it off-line though looking at the photo so I just started row from top, (my row) and worked left to right.
I'll try to identify the ones I remember. If anyone disagrees, thinks I have got the wrong name, speak now ( or forever more be silent).
next to top row left hand side on the end Albert Woods then Barry Hill
Just below Barry is Moore , not sure of his first name., pass one, then David Briers, Wright, Ken Ryding,pass,pass,pass, David Blundle,(boy genius) pass, David Tilston, BRIAN FORSHAW, Mick Gray, Bill Elliot, NOEL ECKTON, Hoyle or Horsefield???? pass pass Dickenson,then pass the next 26, all above my year. John Cooper, Stuart Parker,pass next 10, Gregson?? Jeff Dean,Stan Turbett? pass,then row drops steeply to Robin David Laurence Bourne, one of my best pals,pass next 5, Paul Dickenson( brother of one whose first name I forgot. Charlie Crabtree??? finally pass.
That's a bit for you to chew on Frank, I'll have another go in a day or two.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Caroline | Foggy was in my year, he was Philip Hodson, I think he must've been called Foggy because of the general impression- white hair, pale face, thin, ghostly.....I'll be able to supply a lot of names for the bottom row, first form girls including my sad self, as soon as I print off the photo. I'm still in touch with a few of them..
|
| Lady Griffin | Noel I hope you will send the part of the photo with you and Brian on it to him as PROOF.
|
| noel | quote:
Noel I hope you will send the part of the photo with you and Brian on it to him as PROOF.
Well I know I knew him as a good friend. If he had written more to our forum I could have maybe jogged his memory, but obviously he has more important things to occupy his mind.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Well I still think that Brian may be an Easy Jet pilot and spends most of his time sunning himself and sipping Sangria.He'll pop up again.
LG
He did start this topic and it's lasted several pages.
Come in Brian !
|
| noel | Right here goes again Frank. The main ones I can remember were either in my year or brothers of those in my year. I am having problems with the girls in my year, bit it is a long time ago. I found that a stiff malt whiskey helped refresh parts of my brain that others cannot reach.
After this list I will be struggling and in need of sustinence.
2nd row up ( first boys row) starting at left.
Ken Dagger, John Baker, David Lawton ( son of the solicitor at that time) Gordon Milloy, skip next 10 Phill Walters( below K.Smith) Pass, George Parker I think. Pass 3, Ian Blackhurst, pass 4 Rodney Blackhurst( ist on women teachers side) skip 21, Neil Roocroft, John Shorrock, pass, row ends.
4th row up, girls, right hand side.
pass,pass, Heather Worcester, pass3, Ann Nelson,Enfys Jenkins pass 2 Carol Stubbins??? Jacky Sowman, pass13, Linda Richardson,Carole Blundell, pass,pass, Anita Lee, ( remember the class singing happy birthday sweet 16 to her, the old git) Judith Fairhurst,pass,pass, Kathleen Ursyla Jackson (KUJ) with the blond hair, pass pass, Ann Thompson???
Now I'm struggling. Maybe another malt tonight could drag some more memories. Where I have put a ??? I'm obviously uncertain, the name is a correct one from the school but
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| noel | quote:
I'll check out the photo and get back...if I'm on it, it's got to be 58 or after as I started Balshaw's then.I was taught by Miss Whewell for a year or two, so it can't be 57. Remember Macauley being head boy, probably in my first year.......
Can you identify any of the pupils in your year on the photo Caroline?
I can remember most of my year but I'm struggling outside of that.
I remember a few younger ones, Foggy you've identified. Remember a girl called Walters, her brother Phillip was in my year. Heather Worcester I can see her, I used to sit opposite her at dinner time, pining.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Caroline | Noel, I know what you mean about Heather, she was SO pretty- and she had a really sweet character, too.You should've offered her some of your plum pudding, I'm sure she had a sweet tooth! I thought she ended up in my year, though...
To the work in hand-
Girls bottom row (A) from left:
3- Hilda Rukin 4 Kathleen Cookson 5 Irene Baxter
7 Kathleen Kazer 9 Caroline Johnson 10 Margaret Bagley
11 Anne Thompson 12 Ann Davies 13 Mary Hall 14 Barbara Ratcliffe?
15 Sandra Pickthall 16 Elsie Milroy? 22 Sheila Hutchinson 25 Jeanette Lowe 26 Enid Thomlinson 27 Christine Dalton 41 Anne Salisbury 42 Kathleen Smith 43 Elaine Saul 44 Hilda Cocker 54 May Butler? 56 Pamela Beales 57 Kay Lucas
Boys second row up ( B) from left:
5 John Slater 6 Chris Hall 9 Jeffrey Fearnly 10 Veitch 11 Bracegirdle? 12 Keith Jackson 13 Philip Hodgkinson 29 John Weaver 33 Eric Green 35 Derek Forrest 43 Graham Barton 48 Geoffrey Hill 51 Keith Baker.
They don't make names like that anymore, do they? My partner, Al, who kindly printed out the photo with much swearing so that I could stick it all together, says the lads on the back row look like the ones in 'Billy Liar', and most of the girls look just frightening..... need any identification of Staff?
|
| noel | quote:
Noel, I know what you mean about Heather, she was SO pretty- and she had a really sweet character, too.You should've offered her some of your plum pudding, I'm sure she had a sweet tooth! I thought she ended up in my year, though...
Heather was in the year below me Caroline, I guess that was your year?
The only names of yours I recognise are Veitch, I had picked him out as well but didn't name him, and Bracegirdle but I don't remember him loking like that. He was a good rugby player and I remember playing wing in a house game and beating him down the wing, he was full back but failed to tackle me, I ran all the way along the touch line and dived over the try line, only for Smith!!! to say " I thnk you put your foot in touch there Eckton" and the try, the most magnificent I ever scored was wiped out.
Agree about some of the girls, the one 7th from right bottom row is having a "reet good stare " at the camera isn't she?
teachers I have from left 2= Smith, Wilcocks Wilson Rigby Fat Stan, Brown, Downer , now isn't the little chappy with the glasses the woodwork teacher who died shortly after this, think we called him scrat Harry. Morgan???Speakman, Leathley, Wilkinson, Hilditch,Smith, Bennison,Oldland, Rhall?pass next 5, ma Bromley,,pass. Pickersgill,pass, Leach,pass.
Think I'll have to jot them down Caroline unless Frank is doing so, not heard from him for a few days.
Oh the puddings by the way if you remember were invariably rice pudding with a blob of jam in the middle. Not a very romantic gesture ?
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Am much impressed by your ease at putting names to faces.You folk always get back to FOOD.
LG
|
| Lady Griffin | Is the teacher between Miss Brom and Anne Doherty my elusive Miss Probert!(Ida?}.No gown so assume she may be PE.
LG
|
| noel | quote:
Is the teacher between Miss Brom and Anne Doherty my elusive Miss Probert!(Ida?}.No gown so assume she may be PE.
LG
I think that was the Mrs Pike whose name-sake taught LD at Manchester Grammar she taught Latin there?
And Hygiene I think at Balshaws. I vaguely remember her telling me to clean our finger nails ( she didn't like my nail polish, pink like Becks)
Also remember her teaching about food types, carbs, proteins etc.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| noel | quote:
Also remember her teaching about food types, carbs, proteins etc.
The significant owl hoots in the night.
Woops, and there I go , back to food again!!!
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| noel | Caroline could you check the numbering on your lists please.
The boys second row up I have looked at it from my photo at home and I get your listing one number out. Foggy comes in at no 15 from left ( David Lawton the little blond lad 3rd in is doing his best to sit with the girls but he's being a bit naughty) but I've got Phillip Walters on position 16 . Phillip is the one below Keith Smith, with the humungous quif. There is somebody between Foggy and Phill but no number available for it and I'm going loopy trying to work out where it's gone wrong.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| anacortesdamp | Yes, folks, I'm working on a list. Summer arrived in the Northwest last week, so we're making the best of it before it disappears. Hence, not much input from me.
I've built a set of tables in Microsoft Word to match the layout of the photo and am putting the names in. I haven't added the latest inputs from Lady G and Noel - should get to that in the next couple of days.
The teacher between Brom and Miss Dougherty is Miss Probert. She was my home room teacher in 1C. I guess she may have married and become Mrs. Pike. I don't remember having classes with her after first form.
I'm stuck on the woodwork teacher's name. Was it Higginson? I'm also having a bit of trouble keeping the numbers straight. I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly, Noel, as your first two messages identify two different kids as you!
My next step is to print out all four segments and stick them together, so we're not tripping over which segment we're talking about.
More news soon.
Frank Damp
|
| noel | quote:
I'm stuck on the woodwork teacher's name. Was it Higginson? I'm also having a bit of trouble keeping the numbers straight. I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly, Noel, as your first two messages identify two different kids as you!
My next step is to print out all four segments and stick them together, so we're not tripping over which segment we're talking about.
More news soon.
Frank Damp
Good, Microsoft Word is pretty universal. I was trying to piece bits up so that I could remember who I'd named and who I hadn't. I have some names like Ronnie Gott, a big blond haired lad, Susan Rothwell, others whom I cannot see on the photo.
It's like mind games, I remember their names and their faces but can't see them in the photo. Maybe they were absent that day. Then there are others whose faces I remember well, but have forgotten their names. It's not an easy task Frank and we're relying on you for some of the 6th formers, even though I recognise a lot of them. It's a pity Jeff Demack isn't on the forum, he was a year or two higher and would have known a lot of them, particularly as he recently organised a reunion of 1957/1958 new comers. I couldn't make it as I had a weekend quality course at the time. Most annoying.
I thought the woodwork teacer was nicknamed "Scrat Harry " for some reason. Then I associated it with Harry Morgan. Does that ring a bell? I know he died while I was in the 3rd or 4th form.
As for me , maybe I was one of those naughty kids who ran round the back to be on the photo twice
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Have heard about those people who appeared twice on the photos.It was the stuff of legends even in my day.I sat cross-legged dutifully on the 46 photo- front row left.Frizzy hair.
Have mailed Balshaws and the I.T chap there is going to look for photos from an earlier era as well-when the hols are over.
Am most impressed by your memories for names.
There was no woodwork in my time -must have come in when the school became a High School.At least I can't recall any.
Does anyone remember the caretaker who was there at least in 53.He was a Scot and wore his kilt on special occasions.Handsome chap.I remember he wore it on the day George V1 died when he came into the school Library to tell us.FEB 6 1952.
|
| anacortesdamp | Lady G:
I started at the old pile in 1952 and there was woodwork then. The classes were held in a specially equipped room on the east (Bent Bridge) side of the school, south of the dining hall. It was a boys-only class, and was equivalent to Domestic Science for girls. I think the woodwork shop was underneath the Domestic Science room. If I remember, you made the choice before starting 3rd form whether to take Music, Art or Woodwork.
I remember the nickname "Scrat Harry" but didn't know its origins, and I think the last name was either Higginson or Hewitson. I think he died of cancer.
Frank
|
| rocketmanjohn | 'Scrat Harry' was so called because of the deformed finger nail he had, it was more like a black claw, when he wrote on the board it would scratch and squeek even worse than the chalk. It 'edged' my teeth something cronic. Hence 'Scrat Harry'. What was his surname?
John
|
| rocketmanjohn | I've had a go at the school photo. Starting at the left, ignoring the 2 lads in the girls row:
2nd row down, 6th from the left, Bob Deacon: 7th David Wilson: 19th Mick Rowley: 20th John Shorrock; 24th John Baker: 25th Brian Morris: 28th Fred Waring: 29th ? Marsden: 30th Peter Mockett: 33rd Bert Unsworth: 34th Me: 35th Graham Blezzard: 42nd Brian Curran: 59th Alan Gregson:
Back row, 17th from left, John Unsworth: 39th Ken Mawdsley: 40th ? Haskell: 41st Jackie Eaves: 45th ? Moore: 47th Geoff Demack: 57th Ken Ormerod: 58th Bill Ashton: 63rd ? Sharples: 64th Alan Wayne:
For some reason I can only recognize Franks sister Jean amongst the girls, come on Frank, where is she? I should know more, after all I was in love with half of them
Edited by - rocketmanjohn on 23 Jul 2002 03:06:39 |
| Martin | John, I'll upload the school picture you emailed to me onto a schools page. As more people join the forum, they might want to send in their school photographs too.
In The Pink |
| noel | quote:
Lady G:
I started at the old pile in 1952 and there was woodwork then. The classes were held in a specially equipped room on the east (Bent Bridge) side of the school, south of the dining hall. It was a boys-only class, and was equivalent to Domestic Science for girls. I think the woodwork shop was underneath the Domestic Science room. If I remember, you made the choice before starting 3rd form whether to take Music, Art or Woodwork.
I remember the nickname "Scrat Harry" but didn't know its origins,
and I think the last name was either Higginson or Hewitson. I think he died of cancer.
Frank
Heavens above Lady G, A High School!!wash your mouth out
It only became a High School in the seventies I think. The woodwork was held on the boy's entry side, you went through the main arch into the playground and it was the last class on the right facing the school field. He taught me all I know about woodwork did scrat Harry, I think his name may have been Hewitt , Frank, Morgan keeps comoing to me but we had a glass blower teacher at The Harris who looked like him, it may have been that *his* name was Morgan. Certainly not Hiiginson rule that one out.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| noel | quote:
Lady G:
I started at the old pile in 1952 and there was woodwork then. The classes were held in a specially equipped room on the east (Bent Bridge) side of the school, south of the dining hall. It was a boys-only class, and was equivalent to Domestic Science for girls. I think the woodwork shop was underneath the Domestic Science room. If I remember, you made the choice before starting 3rd form whether to take Music, Art or Woodwork.
I remember the nickname "Scrat Harry" but didn't know its origins,
and I think the last name was either Higginson or Hewitson. I think he died of cancer.
Frank
Heavens above Lady G, A High School!!wash your mouth out
It only became a High School in the seventies I think. The woodwork was held on the boy's entry side, you went through the main arch into the playground and it was the last class on the right facing the school field. He taught me all I know about woodwork did scrat Harry, I think his name may have been Hewitt , Frank, Morgan keeps comoing to me but we had a glass blower teacher at The Harris who looked like him, it may have been that *his* name was Morgan. Certainly not Hiiginson rule that one out.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| anacortesdamp | Noel:
Another confusion maybe in the similarity of nicknames between "Scrat Harry" who taught woodwork and "Slats" Morgan who taught history.
Frank
|
| noel | quote:
Noel:
Another confusion maybe in the similarity of nicknames between "Scrat Harry" who taught woodwork and "Slats" Morgan who taught history.
Frank
Yes I bet that's it Frank. Hope you are enjoying your summer, get out and have a barbeque, these names are buzzing around in my head. I have also discovered a few errors in others ( rest of you please tell me if I'm wrong on any ) John Shorrock for example is 2nd row up next to end on right ( 4th section). The John Shorrock John identified I'm pretty certain is Paul Shorrock his elder brother. I used to mate around with John , he lived down Moss Lane on it's corner with Bow Lane. Seem to remember a farm around the back, Millers? Farm. Oh ecky pecky ( hope that doesn't get censored Caroline, ) what have we started here. It would be good Frank if you could forward the finished article onto the school ???
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Caroline | Noel, it depends if Heather 'feather duster') liked rice pudding or not, I would've welcomed it... I still get Foggy as 13th from left, and I have my stuck-together-correctly complete photo, where are we going wrong?
As for Hygeine teachers, my report for Autumn Term 58, says, Hygeine- Good. CJJ, or is it CSS? same initials for Physical Training, Quite Good.
Teachers- Rahl, Miss Milroy, Miss Lewis, Miss Doherty, and I wonder if the next one's perhaps the mysterious CJJ, after which, can't help!
Lady G., you say how good our memories are- well if everyone else is like me, most of those names and faces are etched into my being as with a branding iron! When I went to the Balshaw's site to get the photo, I had a feeling of dread when I saw the picture of the front of the school, and didn't want to press 'Enter'! It wasn't all bad, however, I'm still in contact with some ' girls' who were and are good friends.
We had Mr. Boardman(!!!) for Woodwork , in the 4th and 5th. form.
I wasn't too sure about Bracegirdle, Noel, it's just I remember his having a big load of lank greasy hair....... i've just noticed that more of my year are on the 4th row up -we artists are REALLY observant, y'know- and I know some of them, but I'm tired, the proficient owl hunter shoots in the night over here ......
|
| Lady Griffin | You are all doing very well.
Miss Lewis -absolutely!
Never taught me but now I remember.I went to the Balshaw's site too and pressed ENTER.Also clicked by accident a forum called Domeus and ended up being welcomed in German to the site.Couldn't translate it but got the gist.
Where is Miss Ball? Had she left by the time of the photo shoot.Taught me Cookery- but didn't succeed.My potato soup turned out BROWN.-the only one.
We all sat round with our jam jars of soup for marking.29 white soups and one brown.
Don't any of you ever turn up in Aotearoa expecting culinary delights from me but turn up any time.
Remember Owls do cry.
LG
|
| anacortesdamp | Lady G:
I think Miss Ball is the one sitting between Brom and Mrs Pickersgill (who you probably remember as Miss Hutchings - Girls Phys. Ed.)
Rocketman:
Jean is the fourth from the left on the fourth row (the second row of girls). She's the second one wearing the white shirt on that row. She looks a good deal slimmer then.
Eileen Nixon (Mrs. Damp since Aug 64) is the 62nd person on the 6th row. She is helping me with some of the identifications.
Maybe by the end of next week, I'll have the list finished. There are only about half a dozen where we have multiple names, which I think is very impressive.
I'll get in touch with the Balshaw's web master once we're finished as far as we can get, to see if the data is of interest. I'd like to see maybe the 1955 or 56 strip, as I'd be on it and all those of my classmates who didn't stay on into Lower VI.
Frank Damp
PS - This thread is getting a bit cumbersome at 7 pages - how about whoever puts up the next post does it as a new topic - say "Balshaw's 59 photo"
|
| Caroline | This thread nearly broke, it got so cumbersome! Anyone remember the school caretaker who locked a flock of girls in the cloakroom ? He was also apprehended drunk in charge of a bicycle on Chapel Brow, when approached by the officer, he was heard to say ' I hope they win the Cup!' I recall him dancing with his broom on the school stage when we were in there for Private Study.
|
| brian | Hello, Noel, Lady G and all the other contributors to this forum,
Thank you for your continuing concern about my welfare.
I have just returned from holiday. I read one comment about names for the 1959 photo. You asked about a lad called Moore and I remember a Godfrey Moore with fair hair which was always immaculate. He played on the wing for the rugby team and he was pretty quick as I remember. He had a strange accent and we used to tease him about the way he replied to the register. His name came out as Mughhhhh Sughhh instead of Moore Sir.
I am glad that you all have plenty of time to spare adding these fascinating messages. Keep up the good work. One day I will learn how to print off a copy of the 1959 photo and find your catalogue of names to go with it.
|
| noel | I'm glad you are enjoying our little anecdotes Brian, and really it doesn't occupy much time, just maybe 10 minutes every other day. There aren't a lot of postings so it's really easy to keep up with it all.
I'm still devastated you don't remember me. As the song goes "Am I that easy to forget".
It could have been Godfrey Moore but I remember him as brownish hair colour with a very neat parting, very fast runner yes, think he was in Farington House. You were in Clayton weren't you? I was in Worden ( come on you blues).
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Welcome back Brian nice to read your post.As you can see we have kept your topic going for you.
Don't know that song,Noel,does it begin,"Can I forget you or does my heart remind you!"
Or there is always "Unforgettable-that's what you are!"
I only know old old songs.
LG
Have been invited to a re-union at BGS this month but will have to give it a miss-I think it's the group from the mid 40'-50'.
If I come into heaps of money in the next 7 days I may make it.
|
| Lady Griffin | Really pleased to hear you do have holidays,Brian.Remember all the old sayings about Work.Don't think I got those words quite right Noel- yous and mes in the wrong place.
LG
|
| noel | quote:
Don't know that song,Noel,does it begin,"Can I forget you or does my heart remind you!"
Or there is always "Unforgettable-that's what you are!"
I only know old old songs.
LG
It is an old song LG , it's on a LP called "The best of Jim Reeves" I still have from 1962. The title is "Am I that easy to forget". I would sing it for you but somehow it may lose something.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Jim Reeves eh!Thanks.
Well if I sang it for you all would really be lost.
Have just enjoyed the 4 CD set of the tribute to the Queen Mother.Lots of variety there.
Back to the topic.
The Griffin I understand stands for Vigilance in Heraldry.There are a number of schools here in NZ which also seem to have adopted it as their emblem.Haven't seen a silver one though.
Have just unearthed from my junk a cutting from the write up when CS Hilditch retired.Seems that he chose the house names Farington Cuerden and Worden but Wilkinson and Bull came up with Clayton.The Griffin must have been chosen about that time.
Also found a good picture of AJ Bull reading from his poetry -like walking back straight into the past.
Where was the older building of BGS before it was transferred to Church Rd in 1931?
|
| rocketmanjohn | Balshaws was in the school at the end of School Lane at the junction with Golden Hill. My mum went there.
John
|
| brian | Noel,
I think you are correct about Moore's hair. It did have an immaculate parting. I was in Worden House.
Lady G.
it is very good of you to continue your dialogue with us despite the fact that you are of a different generation.
I know the old Balshaw's Grammar School in School Lane because I lived in Balshaw Road, which is off School Lane opposite the school, from the age of eleven and my mother moved out about four years ago.
Brian.
|
| William R | Hi Brian, Just a quick one - I read that you live(d) in Balshaw Road, is there a family named Sherlock still around. Father was called Bob, mother was Pat. Knew them 50 yrs ago. Regards Bill.
|
| noel | Brian my wife Margaret Iddon who used to live down Dunkirk Lane remembers you from a farm she refers to as Forshaw's Farm on Leyland Lane Is that correct? Moore must have been Godfrey, we always referred to surnames so he was always Moore, I was Eckton or Ecky as Rodney Blackhurst called me , unless of course one's nickname was Tosh. I played for the Under 15 Worden Rugby team but cricket was my forte I opened the bowling and batting for the second team captained by Alec Lawrie.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| Lady Griffin | Ciao Brian,
Hope to chew the fat with you over a pint of best bitter one day.I can still perch on a bar stool.Incidentally isn't a generation 25 years!
Don't run too far away.
LG
|
| noel | quote:
Ciao Brian,
Hope to chew the fat with you over a pint of best bitter one day.I can still perch on a bar stool.Incidentally isn't a generation 25 years!
Don't run too far away.
LG
LOL Nice one Linda. I was keeping quiet.
The significant owl hoots in the night. |
| rocketmanjohn | What a coincidence. Alec Lawrie [ should be Alex really ] is my cousin, we're in contact by E-Mail, spoke with him only last week.
John
|
| noel | quote:
What a coincidence. Alec Lawrie [ should be Alex really ] is my cousin, we're in contact by E-Mail, spoke with him only last week.
John
Really ? Does he remember me John. Alec , that's how I knew him I think well actually we called each other by surnames which was the Balshavian way.
The significant owl hoots in the night.
Edited by - noel on 14 Sep 2002 20:03:51 |
| dampslad | First time I've looked at this lot.
I was at Fox Lane in Mr Fenton's time, too. He died suddenly in the summer holidays after I left (1961). Went to Balshaw's after that. By the way does anyone know when and how come it turned into Balshaw's CofE High School?
Among the teachers mentioned, Wilkie, Brown, Leathley, Hilditch and Miss Bromley are all dead. Hilditch did stand for parliament, I think in 1951 as Labour candidate for Blackpool South - a safe Tory seat at a bad time for Labour! I always assumed that we called Leathley "Joe Egg" because he was bald as a coot. Miss Bromley was indeed a lay preacher - for the Methodists. Keith Smith (I remember his nickname as "Ginner" rather than Ginger) is still with us, I think, living in Euxton.
Glyn Wilson went on to be bursar at Runshaw College, but is now retired. He still keeps in touch with Pa Brown's widow, I believe.
One pupil I can tell you something about is Stan Turbett. He was in the police for donkey's and like they do retired after 30 years. I think he now lives in Stranraer of all places. I am still in touch with his younger sister, Anne, who lives in Preston with her second husband, Richard. (Her first husband, Peter Jones who was also in my year, became a tutor at UMIST but died of cancer about 10 years ago). Anne is head of fashion design at Wigan Tech - if it's not the University of Worsley Mesnes by now.
More reminisences when I've got more time
Colin Damp
Plymouth |
| Lady Griffin | Thanks for info re teachers.I'm assuming that John Willy aka WJDowner is no longer with us- March of Time and all that- but then again he was a pretty tough chap and no one dared to cross him so maybe he is hanging on.
Hilditch was indeed the Parliamentary Labour candidate for Blackpool South, Middleton and Prestwich-didn't stand a chance of course but put up a noble fight.
He also used to run WEA classes in Leyland and my friend and I went -subject- History of Philosophy -great discussions.
You're right about Ginner not Ginger-very much a hero to us girls especially.
Where are you,Brian? |
| Lady Griffin | I thought that the change from Grammar to Comprehensive happened amid general changes in the Education system when Grammar schools were seen rightly or wrongly as the domain of the elite.
It was shortly after I left in 1953 and when VU Oldland retired.
While I was there Balshaws seemed to be almost an exclusive training ground for professions rather than offer an all round learning climate and it was quite difficult to be accepted as an out of zone student-don't know about Leyland young hopefuls- did they go through the same vetting process-having to read to the Headmaster and be passed by him etc before they could enter.
There were ,I think, three levels: Grammar Schools, Technical Colleges or stay at Council Schools till about 14.
I had the choice of Balshaws ,Chorley and can't remember the other.
Linda |
| William R | I have read with interest the postings regarding acceptance at Grammar schools, post war. Comment is made that entry to Balshaws was the domain of the elite, indeed this was the thinking in the years before the War, as the ultimate goal of students there was towards the Arts. As a pupil of Leyland Secondary Modern School as it was known, the future terminated at age fourteen, and a plan had to be given as to which track you were going to go along; Trade, Commerce or The Arts. Trade was of course to take up an Apprenticeship in a recognised trade, Commerce was in the field of administration, local authority etc, or the Arts which in those days took in many fields; music, theatre etc. Over all schooling at this time was the shadow of inevitable conflict in Europe, which gave an air of uncertainty in how one should be educated.. It was an era of industry which was due to expand, and skilled craftsman would be required to replace those taken for service to their country. Therefore many trade apprenticeship were taken up. As a Leyland Motors apprentice, my decision was made about 12 years of age, the emphasis being on Mathematics, English and Technical Subjects. At thirteen I took an Entrance Exam for Leylands, was interviewed and accepted as an App. Tool Maker, my working future until twenty-one specified and agreed. The working week was five and a half days, including one day at the Day Continuation School, later to be Two Days at school on Jig and Tool Design fundamentals. War was declared, but schooling continued - one day at Harris Institute and three nights night school at Harris after work, one year rising to four nights. This was in pursuit of H.N.C. Eng. From Sec. Mod. School others went on to the Commercial College in Preston, Commercial side at Harris and some to Wigan Tech. Coll. I remember one who finished up as a leading Home Office pathologist, but many went into the Forces. At twenty years and six months, all wartime apprentices were deemed to have "served their time" and were called to the Forces, with the option of returning to Leylands after hostilities were over. This is view from the other side of the fence which possibly some may find of interest, or indeed may relate to. Incidentally, my late wife went to Chorley Gram. School on a scholarship and at Eighteen was given the option, join the forces or go into industry, she chose industry. Regards. Bill. |
| Lady Griffin | All that fits in with what I remember Bill.I moved on to Balshaws in the final year of the scholarship system 45/46 to be replaced by the 11 plus and was sad at having to leave good friends at the Council School.Most of the girls seemed to leave school early about 12-14 and went into the mills or shops etc and I have to say I envied them at times because they had independence and money to spend.Also they were allowed BOYFRIENDS.There were a few cases of pupils who actually passed the exam for Grammar but didn't go because of lack of money and the need for another wage to come into the house.
I'm sure my dad would have known you as an apprentice at LM.
Linda
|
| dampslad | For THORNLEY:-
|
| dampslad | Hi Thornley, Lady Griffin, Noel.
Re Fox Lane and Miss Wane - remember anyu of these...
1A Mrs Jephtha (was Palmer but was widowed and remarried); 1B Miss Marland later married Mr Young - see below; 2A Miss Rawlinson; 2B Mrs Gittings (was Julia Walmsley of sweetshop); 3A Mr Young; 3B Mrs Salisbury; 4A Miss Wane; 4B Mr Stephenson. Floating (Games & Geography) Mr Hewartson.
All these c.1958-61
Lady Grffin remembers the statue at Balshaw's having his toenails painted red. I remember him wearing a condom! It was there for a week before anyone in authority noticed.
Noel - the maths teacher on crutches was Miss Lewis. Badly injured in a car crash going home one night, I believe. Lived in Lytham, I think.
More another time
CLIN DAMP
Plymouth |
| Caroline | Colin, I was pleased to read your correspondance about Anne Jones, as she was when I knew her at Wigan College in the late eighties. Last saw her around '92, could you please say Hello from ' Caroline the Model '? And you could give her my website address at http://perso.club-internet.fr/al_cal so she can see what I'm up to, or am I asking a lot?!!!
I remember the condom incident or something done in the same vein, haha!!!!
Mum had to fail her 11 plus as her family were too poor to afford the uniform, we had to fulfill her dreams for her, which was a bit of a nightmare for US! |
| Lady Griffin | The Condom affair must have been after my time -we were far too naive for that- at least the girls were.
Julia Walmsley was a good mate of mine and we could share a lot of stories but not for these pages I think.Maybe one day.
Linda |
| dampslad | Brian.
Just noticed your piece from June or July about Mr Wilson's productions at Balshaw's.
Did he do "The Importance" more than once? I know "The Mikado" was before my time, but I remember "Pygmalion" with Derek Forest and Elsie Milroie and I actually appeared in his "Importance" in about 1966 with Frank Riding (Algernon), Peter Watson (Jack); Christine Sumner (Gwendoline), Linda Kidd (Cecily); Vivienne Ratledge (Lady Bracknell), Elizabeth Nightingale (Miss Prism).
I played TWO parts - the butler Lane in Act 1 and the vicar Dr Chasuble in Acts 2 & 3.
erryman, the butler in Acts 2 & 3 was played by Ian Bleasdale (no relation to the headmaster) who went on to drama school and has been playing the paramedic Josh in "Casualty" for about 20 years now.
Talking of professionals, does anybody know if Balshaw's has ever produced an MP?
Colin Damp
Plymouth |
| noel | quote:
Originally posted by dampslad
Brian.
Just noticed your piece from June or July about Mr Wilson's productions at Balshaw's.
Did he do "The Importance" more than once? I know "The Mikado" was before my time, but I remember "Pygmalion" with Derek Forest and Elsie Milroie and I actually appeared in his "Importance" in about 1966 with Frank Riding (Algernon), Peter Watson (Jack); Christine Sumner (Gwendoline), Linda Kidd (Cecily); Vivienne Ratledge (Lady Bracknell), Elizabeth Nightingale (Miss Prism).
I played TWO parts - the butler Lane in Act 1 and the vicar Dr Chasuble in Acts 2 & 3.
erryman, the butler in Acts 2 & 3 was played by Ian Bleasdale (no relation to the headmaster) who went on to drama school and has been playing the paramedic Josh in "Casualty" for about 20 years now.
Talking of professionals, does anybody know if Balshaw's has ever produced an MP?
Colin Damp
Plymouth
You may have to wait a while for Brian's response Colin, he doesn't write very often Were you at Balshaw's in 1964 the year I left?
Not aware of any MPs eminating from the old school. I remember Mr Hilditch being quite active for the Labour Party. You would think one pupil would have disgraced himself and become an MP wouldn't you.[:D]
[img]http://usa.venus.co.uk/weed/agifs/images83/owl.gif[/img] |
| noel | quote:
Originally posted by dampslad
Brian.
Just noticed your piece from June or July about Mr Wilson's productions at Balshaw's.
Did he do "The Importance" more than once? I know "The Mikado" was before my time, but I remember "Pygmalion" with Derek Forest and Elsie Milroie and I actually appeared in his "Importance" in about 1966 with Frank Riding (Algernon), Peter Watson (Jack); Christine Sumner (Gwendoline), Linda Kidd (Cecily); Vivienne Ratledge (Lady Bracknell), Elizabeth Nightingale (Miss Prism).
I played TWO parts - the butler Lane in Act 1 and the vicar Dr Chasuble in Acts 2 & 3.
erryman, the butler in Acts 2 & 3 was played by Ian Bleasdale (no relation to the headmaster) who went on to drama school and has been playing the paramedic Josh in "Casualty" for about 20 years now.
Talking of professionals, does anybody know if Balshaw's has ever produced an MP?
Colin Damp
Plymouth
The Mikado featured Valerie Metcalfe ( I think) as Yum Yum. She married Roger Roocroft and produced Amanda the famous opera singer.
Don't think we produced an MP there again my opinion of MPs has dropped somewhat . Hopefully we didn't produce one.
[img]http://usa.venus.co.uk/weed/agifs/images83/owl.gif[/img] |
| brian | Hello everyone,
I am pleased that the topic of school productions has generated some interest. I remember Derek Forest and Elsie Milroy taking the lead parts in Pygmalion. I had a small part in the crowd scene at the beginning where my one and only line was;"He ain't a 'tec' he's a blooming busybody, that's what he is," refering to Professor Higgins taking notes about Elisa's accent.
I left Balshaw's in 1964 and during my time there had been a production of, "The Importance of being Earnest" I had another small part in this one as the photographer's assistant. One of the Shorrock brothers had the part of the photographer. Was it Peter Shorrock? He was a smoker and spent many breaktimes in the boys toilets smoking his cigs. If there was a production after 1964 this would explain the reference to two performances. Did I mention in an earlier posting that for Mr. Wilson's productions I helped with constructing sets and backstage jobs. I remember once dropping a ball of string on Mr. Wilson's head when I was up a ladder. He saw the funny side of it. If I am repeating myself I apologise but it comes with old age.
Best wishes to you all and keep posting.
Brian.
|
| Thornley | Hi, just seen the post about Fox Lane it brings back many memories. I remember Mrs jeptha, she used to nip people (this maybe just a childhood nightmare!) and many of the other names mentioned. I still have fond memories and would love to be able to visit the old place. I think it is a nursery school now? |
| Caroline | I painted scenery for the school play in '65, can't remember which, but there were toadstools in red and white ....Brian, Elsie Milroie changed her name to Sylvia and her own life was a bit like Eliza Dolittle's. I visited her at the British Embassy in Paris & she made us feel very welcome........ |
| noel | Think the smoker would be John Shorrock Brian, he was a close friend of mine at the time. I remember one day he came looking for me out of school time I was up in the fields with my dog. The grass was quite high and the dog very small. I was playing games with the dog hiding in the grass so he had to find me. Suddenly as I looked up from the ground there was John. "Having fun" he said.
Peter was the older of the 2. I remember the Importance of Being Ernest very well, probably next to Mikado it stays in my fading brain cells. |
| rocketmanjohn | Peter Shorrock left Balshaws in 1959 or 1960, John was about 3years younger. Peter was in my year, but he was a year older than me. I seem to remember him leaving at the end of the 4th year.
John |
| Lady Griffin | Great stuff about the drama productions.
My small job was to help students learn their lines in the late 40's early 50's.W J Downer produced the plays in those days and nearing the performance stage he got so stressed we all made sure we kept our heads down in class.
There were some excellent productions.Some were quite intense in subject matter Greek drama like" The Antigone" However the costumes were magnificent and to counter the serious choice there was a short production of the lighter" Pygmalion and Galatea." Downer also produced " St Joan" and Jane Austin's "Emma"
Can't remember the name of the student who had the main part in all those -Judith ? springs to mind .Have often wondered if she pursued a career in acting as she was so good.
Linda |
| PaulD | Hello Brian (Forshaw) - a surprise to see your name, so writing to wish you well. Many years since the days 'up Paradise'. All the best. Paul (One of those in the 1959 'photo that others are tabulating). |
| noel | quote:
Originally posted by PaulD
Hello Brian (Forshaw) - a surprise to see your name, so writing to wish you well. Many years since the days 'up Paradise'. All the best. Paul (One of those in the 1959 'photo that others are tabulating).
I'm one who's in the photo too, and trying to tabulate , Paul.
Good to hear from you again. Brian hasn't written for quite a while now. |
| Lady Griffin | Please come back Brian!
I promise not to hassle you! |
| brian | Evening All,
It really makes me feel good that you all miss my scintillating messages on this forum.
Paul D. good to know that you are alive and well. I have very fond memories of the time we spent at Tattersall's farm. Looking back, I think it was a large part of our spare time but great fun and very educational.
My mum comes into contact with your mum quite often, more so a few years ago when they were part of the same women's organisation. I think they only meet occasionally now.
Lady griffin,
my daughter has just spent a few weeks in New Zealand and I have put it on my list of places I would like to visit if the pension will stretch that far.
Dear All,
On another forum someone has suggested a meeting sometime over Christmas and the New Year. I am prepared to risk it if we can arrange a suitable time and place. I just hope it isnt a ruse for some spotty teenager to hassle a sincere mature person like myself.
You hear such such terrible stories about these internet meetings.
Regards,
Brian |
| dampslad | Someone mentioned Dick Bennison, chemistry master and deputy head in my time ('61-'68). Did you know he was colourblind? We discovered this when he came to school one day in identical brogues, except one was black and the other brown. He was sent home at once to change them - quickly followed by another teacher to ensure he ddn't come back in the other "odd" pair.
Naturally, we took the mick unmercifully. "It's a fine green precipitate" he'd declare, holding up a test tube. "No, sir. It's red..." You get the idea.
He was also responsible for one of the biggest faux pas in my time. Miss Doherty interrupted his sixth form chemistry lesson to complain that as Deputy Head he's timetabled her to teach a period of English at one end of the school and invigilate an exam in the hall at the same time. After whispered promises to sort it out, he turned to the class and announced "You'll have to excuse me for a while. I've got to see about Miss Doherty's periods."
Ho-hum!
Colin Damp, Plymouth |
| Lady Griffin | Good story about Bennison.I remember him well, he was rather quieter than most.He was in charge of lost property in the late 40 's and went the extra mile to do detective work in order to recover my beautiful new Conway Stewart blue and green mottled fountain pen which another student had 'acquired'
That's probably because I cried copious tears all over him as my dad was giving me Hell for having 'lost' it.
Wouldn't get much support now in that area and would be told to get over it I expect.
|
| brian | Greetings,
I have suggested on the 'Welcome' Forum that anyone is interested in meeting all these strange people who put messages on this forum might like to meet.
The Suggested date is Tuesday 31st December at the Eagle and Child at 12 noon for a sandwich and a pint. The Historical Society is holding a meeting at the museum at one o'clock followed by a walk and this could be an opportunity to continue talking or get away from all these odd folk.
Regards,
Brian |
| Lancashire-Lad | Hi guys, what a trip down memory lane reading all the E-mails. I'm Christina Bennett and attended Balshaws from 1947 thru 1952 as Green. Was raised in Lostock Hall at the bottom of Ward Street until emigrating with my husband to the U.S. in 1958 (joke is that we were part of the 'Brain Drain'). We have lived in Michigan for almost 45 years, but our parents and sisters have visited regularly and in their teens our daughters spent their summers at home and went on holidays with the Leyland Youth Club. The airlines have made great fortunes from our trips home too (every couple of years or so). Wilkie helped me enormously in Maths ( I have a Masters Degree in Business Admin.) and own 3 or 4 poetry books by Mr. Bull. Mr. Brown taught Geography when I was in 3A and during one test I drew my fingers across my throat indicating how horrible it was and suddenly a voice boomed out over the classroom saying, "No Christina" , and he commenced to demonstrate how he would stetch my neck and then tie a knot in it. Very hilarious. He was a great character and everybody laughed!! After my husband & I were married we lived in Latham St., Preston, adjacent to Avenham Park and Miss Whewell & Mr. & Mrs. Pickersgill lived next door, so we saw each other regularly until we emigrated. I would like to find Auriol Bleasdale and Dorothy Moore if anyone knows where they are. My sister Enid Armstrong (nee Green) sent us a photo of Ginger Smith and his wife when they were retiring from Balshaws. Would love to keep in touch. Happy New Year to you all, Chris. |
| Martin | Hello and welcome Chris
I'm sure there will be plenty more to read on here in the coming year.
Happy New Year to you and everyone else across the water. |
| Lady Griffin | Hi Christina
Guess I must know you, though I started Balshaw's a year earlier than you and left for NZ the same year you left the country.
I'm Linda Sinfield as was and went to St James Council School from 39-46.Though I did live in Bamber Bridge during that time.
Most of my friends were the Tardy side of the Railway Bridges but I did know Barbara Grimshaw quite well.She may well have lived in Ward St- as my memory is a bit blurred now-grey hair syndrome!
Also Marina Tuson who lived in the houses near the station.I have a photo of a re-union group with Auriol in it and think she would have been at the last reunion September just passed.
That year meets regularly and my friend Connie Sumner sends me news.
Nice to hear from you.
Cheers
Linda |
| William R | Hello Christina, May I add my best wishes at you joining the Forum (it makes Martin and Haley happy) I`m one of the "golden oldies" who wandered onto the Forum. Sorry I didn`t go to Balshaws, I used to run my school ruler on the railings as I ran past in the 1930`s (sorry) on my way to school (trainee vandal??) Have fun with us. From the White Rose county, Bill. |
| David Briers | Just stumbled on the Forum and did a double-take whan I saw my name! However, Noel has mis-identified me on the 1959 photo - the person he thinks is me is actually my younger brother Lester (Les). (I am at the other end of the photo.) Is this a dead issue now, or does anyone still want some blanks filled in? If so, I can help with some of the oldies (I was in Lower Sixth at the time). |
| noel | I think I was in the same class as Lester ,same year anyway though time has been cruel to me. I do remember you . Frank Damp was keeping the record fire away if you can , I'm struggling with some of the older ones. |
| David Briers | OK - here goes. I'll try not to repeat any that have already been identified, except where I think an error has been made, or to clarify any confusion.
Back row: 4. Schofield; 11. Birchall; 12. Frank Yates; 14. Derek Hodgson; 15. Wiggins; 16. Frank Wilson; 17. Unsworth; 22. Baxendale; 23. Neil Speakman; 33. Derrick Robinson (Head Boy, 60-61); 34. Ken Jolley; 35. Dickinson; 44. Derek Houghton; 48. David Briers; 49. Jeffrey (Geoffrey?) Gray; 50. John Lawton; 65. Tom Taylor
Next row: 5. Lester Briers; 19. Roger Hoyle; 33. Roger Thrippleton; 34. Alan Mattinson; 54. Mervyn Robinson
Next row: 45. Sheila Mayor
Next row: None
Next row: 5. Elsie Speakman; 6. Sandra Snape; 7. Dorothy Grimshaw; 10. Pauline Afflick; 26. Cynthia Davies?; 27. Margaret Smith; 37. Eileen Hoskins? ; 50. Margaret Freeman; 54. Barbara Hill?; 56. Judith Prendergast; 59. Margot Fraser; 79. Audrey Bland
Next row: 12. Alan Davies (Head Boy, 59-60); (Teachers:) 26. Hewitson (woodwork); 31. Bull; 34. Rahill; 37. Lewis; 38. Ife (formerly Probart); 40. Ball; Pickersgill (formerly Hutchings); (Pupils:) 58. Jean Walsh; 59. Barbara Hitchen; 64. Mary Ellis; 65. Edmondson; 66. Ann(e?) Smith (Head Girl, either 59-60 or 60-61)
Other rows: nothing to add
Quick note on myself: a confirmed globetrotter, my places of residence after leaving Balshaw's went London, Lancashire, London, North Wales, New Zealand, Surrey, New Zealand, Germany, Dundee, North Wales, Surrey, West Wales. Last post was Professor and Head of Physics at Kingston University, now semi-retired and living in Pembrokeshire. I married Elsie Speakman (see above) in 1965, but Elsie sadly died of cancer in 1985. We had no children. I have since re-married and have two stepchildren, now grown up, of course. |
| noel | Yes I can remember a lot of those names now David.
I've been staring at them thinking "umm, I know that face.!!! "
Very sorry to hear about Elsie . But glad to hear from you. How's Lester? I think we were in 1b together or was it 2a,3a,etc. |
| penny |
Hi everyone I have just spent a very cold Sunday afternoon reading about your escapades at Balshaw's.
I particularly relate to Lady Griffin as I seem to have followed in her footsteps. I too went to Lostock Hall Council School from 44-50. I lived on Leyland Road close by Eccles furniture shop.I am Joan Eccles (nothing to do with furniture) and I remember a teacher at school called Miss Griffith (I think)she taught the nursery class where you had a sleep in the afternoon on camp beds which I strongley objected too.
I took the 11-plus there in 1950 and found myself at Balshaws in 1c I think Miss Dougherty was our class teacher. I refused to take Latin in the second year because Mr Leathley would teach me.I had forgotten that we called Mr Oldfield Victor Eustace. He used to come into the hall to teach us R.E and tell us to read some passage out of the Bible, then disappear until the end of the lesson only returning if the noise rose so that he could hear us in his office. You have mentioned many names that I recognise but none in my year.I left in 1956 when I was in the lower sixth because I did not want to be a teacher or a scientist and it seemed that they were not interested in any other career. I am only in contact with a couple of people, Valerie Ashton and Irene Ainsworth but I hear bits of news from Val. I married Ken Heywood who went to Wellfield lived in Farington and we now live in Derbyshire on the edge of the Peak District.
Keep up the good work I really enjoy reading all your messages.
|
| rocketmanjohn | Penny, you must have been at Balshaws the same time as my sister, Judith Burrell.
I also remember 'Vic' taking R.I., he used to sweep into the hall with his gown flowing behind him, give us something to read and then leave, what a waste of time.
I also encountered the 'if your not an academic, you're a waste of time' attitude that 'Vic' had, he refused to let me have time off to go for an interview for an apprenticeship with UKAEA, I got 3 nights detention for going anyway. I got the job, and it's served me well throughout my career.
John
|
| Lady Griffin | John you are so right about the 'if you are not academic attitude of the time'at many schools of the era.
I'm sure that many young people met that personal challenge and did well despite the put offs.
I've said this before but I can still remember the individual interviews in the sixth form by Victor Eustace.Took place on the stage in front of the whole pack of the sixth formers assembled.Very intimidating, and he said to me you'll never make a teacher because you're too quiet.
Would love to have been able to tell him I did and survived a lot longer than most. Still those were the sort of words that got my dander up and still do if anyone says I can't do anything.
Maybe that was part of his master plan to spur you on.
Incidentally a memorial bench has been placed in the school garden in memory of Tom Speakman-a lovely man.
I read in the Leyland Today paper that there are huge plans for the school-900.000 pounds to be spent on upgrades.
There were less than 800 students when I went first in 46.
Penny, I was in 1C to start with, with Miss Doherty- she was new then and I believe still attends the re-unions.It was a pre-fab at the back left of the school.
The 50th year of my lot leaving has just been held in September.
Miss Smith at St James Council School was the infant mistress when I arrived in 1939 barely 4 years old.They took us early because of the war and I do remember the sleeps.She retired about 1964 and am not sure whether she actually married Mr Griffiths -the headmaster later on.
A remarkable woman and loved by all the countless numbers of children who passed through the front door to her and then progressed through the double doors at the back of the infants area to the BIG school.It was a source of great mystery -what was behind those doors that lay ahead of us.
The place still looked the same when I looked from Moss Lane two years ago.I remembered the school yard being criss crossed with the trails we made as we made slides in the ice, and the cookhouse for school dinners -not forgetting the bomb shelters that we seemed to spend so much time in.
Cheerio from NZ
|
| anacortesdamp | John/Linda:
You're both absolutely right about the Balshaws hierachy's antipathy to careers other than "the classics". I think they wanted us all to go to Oxford and become Greek or Latin teachers!
I decided in about 3rd form that I wanted to go into engineering. Once that became known, I was immediately excluded from even the rudimentary career counseling that Balshaw's had. I very specifically set things up to do A-levels in Pure Math, Applied Math and Physics. Imagine the shock to find, at the opening assembly for the new Lower 6th., that I was placed in French, English and Latin, particularly as I failed O-level Latin (admitted this was a deliberate act!). I was in Vic's office before he'd had chance to sit down after "flowing" out of the assembly. I think he was taken aback by my belligerence - I called him quite a few choice names. His argument was that my natural aptitude was for languages and "the staff" thought that was my best career path. He was sufficiently "impressed" by my attitude that he did fix the class assinments. Unfortunately, "Wilkie" was so oriented towards the girl students that I got no help at all (in two of my majors) so I decided to bail out in April of my lower 6th year. I got on immediately at EE-Warton as a Student Apprentice.
They may have been right about the aptitude, but I sure didn't want to be an interpreter/translator. Like Rocketman, I've had a very rewarding career as an engineer. It's not the most remunerative career in the world, particularly if you decide not to chase the line management career path, but it's a very satisfying job. Maybe, if I'd known more about the field back then(thank-you, Balshaws, for the career guidance!), I'd have gone for an apprenticeship with BOAC/BEA rather than English Electric/BAC/whatever they're called now, and ended up in airline engineering oroperations instead of the airframe manufacturing side of the industry.
On balance, though, being in the airframe side of the business made a job with Boeing possible. My wife and I are very grateful that Boeing moved us to this part of the world and also alloowed me to travel extensively as part of the jobs. We wouldn't swap NW Washington State for anywhere else in the world.
Frank Damp
Anacortes, WA, USA
|
| William R | Hello Forum, I feel that I have to break my silence to join in the discussion on the denigration of engineers. I have read the comments made about the attitude of staff to potential engineers at Balshaws, you were not alone. At Leyland Secondary Modern School, pre-war I let it be known that at the age of 14 yrs I was joining Leyland Motors to become an indentured apprentice to Tool Making. Derisive laughs all round, however, I took the entrance exams and was accepted. Due to this, I was in a reserved occupation until the completion of my "time", then into the Army to be told to forget all I had learned at Leylands, the Army would make me into an engineer. Under silent protest I did as I was told, and "did it their way". Proud and proficient I waited to put my new found skills to use, only to be moved at a moments notice to the staff of the Provost Marshall, of which I shall say nothing, until the final day of service I was informed that, as I was not prepared to become a "Regular" I was transferred back to REME for one day for Demob. Back to Leylands to my old trade, only to be told that there was no time for "fancy" tool makers, output was all that mattered. I realised that the pride of being a time served engineer counted for nothing, so it was time to make a change. It would take too long to chronicle the following years, suffice it to say that I was able to apply my knowledge in "true" engineering in the Paper Industry and the Friction Industry. I was head hunted because I was "available" and to be in a position because I was regarded as a "proper" engineer was compensation for the years of being regarded as second class because I had not been to College or University. Such phrases as "good fault finders should be good fault menders" and "we want men to do things, not talk about them" mean nothing to me now, for I see that there is now a shortage of artisans, people to work with their hands, people who can manage when the power goes off, people to get you going again. I look back down Life`s highway and see all the mistakes which were made, and all the artisans who got the wheels back on the track to progress to where we are today. Engineers are not, and never have been second class, they are the men (and women) who keep us going. Long may they flourish. Sorry if I`ve gone on a bit, but I`m very sad about the way the industry of this country has been traded for frivolous things we regard as essential to our way of life today. In deference to Martin, should I say that the foregoing is my opinion, and does not reflect on any person living or dead., Cheers, William R. |
| Martin | quote:
Originally posted by William R
In deference to Martin, should I say that the foregoing is my opinion, and does not reflect on any person living or dead., Cheers, William R.
I think we know what you mean Bill... by the way have you noticed that the member rankings have changed slightly? |
| David Briers |
I too remember Tom Speakman with some fondness - he was one of the few teachers to strike the right balance between strictness and fairness. I also remember his account of a trip to the States, and having tea with Einstein!
Here are a couple of stories about the other charismatic teacher of those days, Mr Wilkinson (Wilkie). Remember his fan club? To find him at lunchtime or break, all you had to do was look for a crowd of junior girls, and Wilkie would be at the centre of it. He also used to choose one of the girls to take on holiday - to act as model for his photography. He had the approval of her parents, and I believe he may also have taken a chaperone, and I am sure it was all above board (he even showed us the photographs afterwards), but can you imagine this being acceptable behaviour today? The other incident concerned the Chess Society that Wilkie used to run. He was a former county chess player and had a standing offer of five shillings to any pupil who beat him. In my final year, I used to wander down to the Chess Society on Friday afternoon and have a game with him. On one occasion, he made a fundamental error and I had him checkmated. I'll never forget his reaction - he pushed the board away in disgust, stood up and without a word walked over to watch one of the other games. He never did pay up - but the incident gave me enough confidence when I went up to university a few months later to join the Chess Club and I soon found myself playing for the university second team (and my college's first team).
David Briers |
| Lady Griffin | David ,the seat was I believe fairly recently organised by the Old Students' group of the year of my leaving .Barbara Ward was Head Girl then and Tom Speakman until his death in his eighties used to drive from London to attend- a very staunch supporter of the group.I didn't join them, being quite pleased to escape after 7 years at the school, but I do hear news from time to time.
Miss Venn -present Principal- is apparently very welcoming of ex- students.
I've lived in many parts of NZ both South and North in the 45 years since we arrived here and presently live in the West of Auckland - close to the Waitakere Ranges.Was living in the Avalon area of Lower Hutt at the time you would have been there in the 70's close to the recording studios, as my husband was stationed at Shelly Bay and I taught Latin at Naenae college.
Nice to hear from you and welcome back ,Bill.
Our first home was in Marlborough -currently known for its wineries- but back then it was very quiet - a beautiful spot with the picturesque Marlborough Sounds and many references in the names of Bays and inlets to Captain Cook in his journeys round the area.
St Heliers is a lovely part of the Bays around Auckland Harbour.
Sir Peter Blake would have been disappointed to see the way the yachting is going especially after the defections to the Swiss team.
He was a great man and a great Ambassador for this country with tremendous vision and energy.
|
| rocketmanjohn | I did'nt wish to hammer Balshaws too hard. I must have learned more than enough maths from Wilkie, when I went to Harris Tec I was a long way ahead of the rest of my year. Consequently I was given the dimmo's of my year to bring up to scratch, which I enjoyed a lot. It was different from school, everyone wanted to learn instead of just dreaming through lessons. We had an excellent lecturer from Leyland called Meadows, and an eccentric one called Jock Hulse, who was a lot like Magnus Pike. He was so good that lots of students would stay after class to listen to him, I never knew maths could be so interesting.
Engineering training is no better here in the 'States. We get graduates straight from university with umpteen high flying degrees, who can't do anything. It's many years before anything productive comes out of them. It's not surprising that the technical base is vanishing fast, and I don't know where it will end. We can't all survive on service industries, there won't be anything left to service. Should I say anything produced in the West.
John |
| noel | I can't praise Wilkie enough. He rescued my failing maths when I got booted our of maths A stream into C stream year before O levels. Never looked back after that and ended up passing A level Pure Maths with flying colours.
Mind you he did like his little girls around him as David said . I somehow don't think it would be allowed now . |
| Lady Griffin | Have to say that on reflection I have been softening my stance quite a lot re the old school.Maybe I have been too harsh.
I came out of there with a love of music, literature, the stage,classics,tennis and I hope with a reasonably liberal attitude and life skills.
I have also got to backtrack on characters like Wilkie on, though he didn't teach me any Maths and could be dogmatic,he did try to convey his musical knowledge and he was an interesting person.He was a true cynic I realise now and showed a lot of honesty with it.
You wouldn't find many teachers now with the same memorable qualities.
Anyway Balshaws is moving ahead from the rigid stance on the broader curriculum which those of us in the pre and immediately post war years remember.
I,m told that in March they are applying for Maths -Engineering College status.
LG
|
| David Briers | Another story about Wilkie. At one of the school parties (I think the prefects' party, either 1960 or 1961), Mr Downer decided to set him up and roped in Derrick Robinson and me as accomplices. The idea was that as one of the acts in the "entertainment" he (Mr Downer) would draw a name out of a hat, followed by a topic that the unfortunate victim had to speak on for two minutes. Of course it was all a setup - both Derrick and I knew that we would be the first two names out of the hat and we were told what our subjects would be so that we could prepare - mine was "The private life of the prawn" and Derrick's was "The sale of bicycle pumps - does it lead to inflation?" The third name was Wilkie - and he had not been warned! And the subject? - "The advantages of co-education." At the time I thought it was just a harmless bit of fun, but now that I am older (and more cynical) I wonder if it was actually a serious message from the rest of the staff to Wilkie about his relationship with young girls? I guess we'll never know.
David Briers, Pembrokeshire |
| jackal | You youngsters should not be too hard on balshaws. I was there from 1933 to 1937 when VUO was in his prime... and I seemed to be his prime target for sarcasm! Ioften look back and wonder if holding up a child to ridicule before his peers was the best way to encourage him to do better.But what do I know. Any way the education at Balshaws was the only education I got, but was sufficient to come to Canada,get a job raise a family and eventually retire with a reasonable income. I trust Balshaws still does as much for the kids of today! My highlight in recollection was the school trip to Spain,Italy and Gibraltar This took place in 1934 or 1935. The chaperons were C. S. Hilditch and M.A. Rahill. I soon found out that the crew had chips and sausage and eggs for breakfast ,compared to porridge etc to the passengers and I was adopted y the Stokers and given a little boiler ,a small shovel, a sweat rag and some coal to keep the fire going. M A R was somewhat bemused to discover me thus employed when she was conducting an official tour of the vessel. (The Doric Star) Spain was OK too |
| Karen | Hello John .... fellow refugee from the old Leyland site!!!
My best cyberpal ... watch out folks ... this guy is HOT!!
But remember ... I'M your best cybergal!!
Welcome .... Luv ya.
Karen.
x x x |
| Karen | Oops sorry ... that's Hello Jackal ...etc ..... |
| brian | I have been following the recent postings about the quality of teaching at Balshaw's before 1960. I suspect that many ex pupils succeeded despite the teaching rather than because of it. It is a tribute to yourselves that you have achieved so much.
Brian. |
| Caroline | Got to add my tuppenceworth - you potential engineers weren't the only ones to be dissaproved of . When I told Fred Bleasedale I wanted to go to Art School, he laughed openly . I got the impression that the opinion was- Oxbridge, excellent. Any other university, very good. Training college, acceptable. Art College, a joke .
I too remember Wilkie's 'favourites'- trips to Blackpool, photos, sweeties, what a creep!
Neither was I helped in my attempts to get Maths O level by his calling me a 'toad' or by his ' I could get a budgie and it'd be able to repeat back to me what I've been telling you, Johnson !!' I was sent out to the corridor for weeping........
Of course, none of this has affected me affected me affected me.........and I can report that I followed my chosen path and am now a pennyless artist sitting in a freezing room warming my hands on a computer screen. |
| Thornley | Hi all, my sister (a few years older than me, she will love me for that:>) ) tells me that she is going to a reunion in September. It is to be held at Balshaws and there will be a guided tour! I think this is only for her ex peers, I think they left in 1973. Perhaps we could gate crash!!!!!
Vanessa |
| Lady Griffin | Am returning for a look at the old school at the beginning of April-being taken there by a few old friends from the 40's and early 50's-haven't seen them for 50 years -should be enlightening -and nervewracking too.Am sure I can remember the exact spot where I sat cross-legged in 46-third row back left from the stage-end of row.
That is unless I get too scared!!!! Certainly will need a sedate chair this time.
Will report back on the experience.
LG
|
| dampslad | Caroline - you had a similar experience to my cousin, John Baker, with Bleasdale. He found the ideal course for his needs, but it was at Richmond Polytechnic and Fred was outraged that he didn't want to go to a university. He was so paranoid about having an ever longer list of pupils who'd done so in each year's Speech Day programme that we quite beilieved the rumour that he was paid a bonus for each one.
As to career advice, when I fell by the wayside abd had to drop one of my three A-level subjects, Careers Master Downer's only advice (delivered with a sigh) was "Oh well, banking or the Civil Service, I suppose."
Colin Damp
Ex-Journalist and one time TV producer
PLYMOUTH |
| Caroline | Thanks for your comment, Colin. A friend of mine was being groomed by Fred for Oxford or Cambridge. Partway through the extra year needed , she decided she didn't wish to continue with this , and went along to his office to inform him. Fuming with anger, he turned shades of red, then purple, then strode to the door, and bade her a curt and tight-lipped 'Goodbye, Kathleen!!!' |
| LeylandGB | Frank,
Not sure where you got to re naming names on the 59 photo but if you check out www.angelfire.com/ex/reunion_balshaws_74 you will see how I set up the 72 photo for identification.... we currently have 113 names left to find out of 757. Good luck . |
| Martin | I could easily set up a school photo gallery with spaces for names here on Leylandtown.info. If somebody supplies the photos, I will do the rest. |
| Thornley | Hi, |