Party tribute to Junction Joan

Joan Carr, founder and organiser of the Middleton Junction reunions, who died in January

THIS year’s get-together of Junctionites — former residents of Middleton Junction — will be a sadder affair than usual.

For the woman who founded the annual party for people like herself, Joan Carr, died after Christmas, three months before the celebratory 15th anniversary.

The night, held every year at the Radclyffe Arms, welcomes all former Junctionites, which potentially makes it open to thousands of people.

Originally it was aimed at those who, like Joan, had grown up in the area around the Forties and Fifties.

The party usually attracts 100-250 people. This year’s reunion will be on Wednesday.

“I did wonder whether the event should go ahead, but everyone I have spoken to in the last month or since Joan died said it should continue, as a tribute to her,” said Mr Gerald Carr, Joan’s husband.

“So it goes ahead — and not just this year but for the foreseeable future.

“This year we are only expecting around 50 people, since I just haven’t been able to get in touch with everyone.

“But hopefully anyone who reads this and hasn’t otherwise been contacted will come along.”

Gerald can be contacted on 01706 655331.

Joan, who lived with Gerry in Milnrow, has suffered chest problems for five years and suffered steadily worsening breathing, her husband explained. She died in her sleep on January 6.