School Reunion 2002

It was an idea that developed from the 'little illustrated book'  I produced in 2001 to celebrate some of the 1959/60 experiences of form 4a [and others] at Ushaw Moor Modern both during and after school days. It was not an easy event to organise especially as I was doing it from the south east of England. I had hinted that it would take a couple of people, situated in the North East, to ensure a good job but  that help did not materialise; that is not a criticism merely an observation. It took place in a Brandon pub and the food was fine albeit  we started to consume it rather late in the afternoon!

Sticking with maiden names we had Audrey Thompson flying up from the south and not looking a day over forty. Two of our more lively pupils Edith Smith and Pauline [senior moment - I know Pauline's married name] attended and were full of life and vitality; they were a joy to talk to.

Big Malcolm Gibb was there and as rational and friendly as ever. I say big, and frequently refer to him as the gentle giant, but hasten to add that he is a finely built man of reasonable proportions not a candidate for a circus!

Margaret Ayre attended and fully contributed to the event and by that I do not mean that she swung from chandeliers - I suppose she might have done had there been any. No that is not right she is far too dignified, sensible and friendly.

It was a pleasure to see John Vasey again and he still takes a good photograph, even after an interval of forty nine and more years.

Then it happened! No not the arrival of Barack Obama - rather it was Harry Barlow. Both Edith and Pauline were especially thrilled to see him and both showed it and said it! It was also a pleasure to see his wife Betty who has also been a teacher at the school. Wallace Hayton arrived at the same time as Harry and Betty and I recall his kindness and dignity.

 The only sex education I recall at school was one formal lesson that Betty gave us. It did not amount to much - something along the lines that 'when you get a bit older you will experience a surge of interest in the opposite sex. Thanks Betty.

Towards the end we had flash bulb time; that is to say our photographic session. It really was like Blackpool Illuminations or a film premiere. Several people were clearly reluctant to go home and wished to savour every last drop of the event - that was good to see. 

I have not mentioned everyone of the attendees but it was grand to see them all. They all grew up rather well and many achieved positions of significant responsibility which is pleasing to know. 

WB