Memories flood back for the class of ’58

A retired school master was top of the form when more than 30 pupils he taught 50 years ago hosted a special champagne reunion party.

The class of ’58 from Springhead secondary modern school included a former pupil who played rugby for Great Britain and others sharing sporting achievements.

The reunion was the brainchild of Gary Cooper, a former Springhead resident and school pupil, who — with the help of the Oldham Chronicle — traced classmates from across the country.

Gary (65) decided to stage the unique reunion at Springhead Liberal Club after recovering from a heart attack.

He said: “Once I got the all-clear from the hospital, I thought it would be nice to get all my old school pals together again.

“I contacted the Oldham Chronicle and luckily found a link to one of our old teachers, Bill Garratt, who in turn put me in touch with other pupils I had shared time with at the school,” he recalled.

“We had a remarkable turn out – people have travelled from Anglesey, the North-West coast and parts of Yorkshire to attend the party. I’m hopeful it will become a regular event.”

There was a special celebration for 92-year-old Bill Garratt, who taught at the school for more than five years, and cut a cake at the party.