KBGS Old Boys' Forum

A place to discuss Keighley Boys' Grammar School. 


Terms of use.  Anonymous, offensive, or malicious postings will  be deleted. School-related topics only please. If you need to add a "family notice" reply to any of the current messages in that thread, and remember to change the Subject to the name of the newsworthy person.

 

 

KBGS Old Boys' Forum
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Re Arnold Boddy

It is with deep sorrow that I have to inform you that my brother Arnold passed away today following a short illness. He was 79 years old and was at KBGS from 1950-1954. His photo is on the 1st XI in 1953. He is seated at the right hand side. He is also featured on the 1995 reunion photo (1) and photo(2). He worked for Martins Bank and eventually Barclays before retiring. He was then able to put more time into his passion for music. Arnold will be sadly missed.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-64

Current location (optional) Keighley

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-64

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: Family Notices

Since I brought the news to the forum that John Bailey has died I’ve been asked to post the news on Family Notices.
I knew John mainly through my association with Cowling and then KBGS. He was the son of the village butcher, George. We both used to play for the Cowling football team on Saturday afternoons and then spend Saturday evenings at The Imperial ballroom Nelson. His Mum used to provide a warm bed and a full English breakfast the following morning.
John was an excellent linguist, mastering Latin, French and German. After gaining his degree at Nottingham University he went in to teaching languages. He told me he used to use Jim Hall’s as his main text book.
The last school he taught at was Walton High, Nelson (The old Nelson Grammar) whose headmaster was Mr. Williams- the ex KBGS English teacher (who died in 2010/11?).
After a short illness John died of bowel cancer in March 2008. He left a widow Carole and three grown children, Mathew, Mark and Stephanie. As a keen field sportsman he requested his ashes spread over The Forest of Bowland.
Perhaps others can add to this tribute to a very generous friend.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1958-1965

Current location (optional) Brighouse West Yorkshire

Re: Family Notices

Aged about 14, a group of us from the Highfield area of Keighley would often walk over to Cowling Pinnacle (am I remembering the name right)? On one such excursion on a sunny day in the summer holidays we encountered John plus air rifle, practising his shooting skills. He let me have a shot and I pointed the gun at a starling that had settled on a rock. It was first time lucky for me and unlucky for the poor bird. I decided that the starling was going home to feed his/her kids and I felt terrible! So, whilst I've never held a gun of any type since, I know that for John, shooting became a lifelong passion, and he was well placed in his Pennine location to pursue field sports expertly. It was he who once suggested going grouse beating in August. A quid a day -riches beyond anyone's dreams: a whole half LP. So off we went, and whilst he strode out over the moors, expertly beating his flag, yours truly attempted every short cut in the book to make the activity expend least physical exercise. So, whilst he would carefully skirt any moorland obstacle (like a bog), Jonah would favour trying the shortcut and jumping across it. But, then, Jonah being of the heavy variety, didn't quite make it, and landed up to his armpits in bog. I seem to remember John didn't manage to keep a straight face. I too had visits to the flat above the butcher's shop in Cowling. John had an older brother, I seem to remember. Anyway, in the sixth form he and I along, along with Jim Hall and others, opted for the Latin/French/German curriculum. So we were a close knit group and it's so sad for me to think that both Jim and John are no longer with us. I was, through this site, able to have a brief email exchange with John. On reflection, it must have been around the time he became ill. We arranged to meet up at Colne Blues Festival that year, but unfortunately the meeting never happened. I'd really looked forward to catching up with him properly. Anyway - good memories and many more that I will reflect on tonight. Bill, thanks for letting us know.

Re: Family Notices

Yes as I said earlier John Bailey and I were just two who went to Nottm Uni in 1965. There as also a girl from KGGS, her name was Jean (possibly Greenhalgh). John was in Lenton Hall, right opposite mine, Lincoln Hall. But he was Arts, I was science, so we soon developed our own circles of friends in depts and Halls, so I saw him infrequently after the first couple of terms. Jim wrote several French text books under the name C. James Hall. They were still being used on the Wirral when we moved here in 1988, whether they still are I dont know. Must have been better than Milton and Fox (Clarendon French Course)

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

Re: Family Notices

I thought the Clarendon French Course was very good for 1939-45.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1952-60

Current location (optional) Lincoln

Re: Family Notices

So did Harry Blinks, with some pride 20 years later!
I recall him telling our class that any invitation by Oxford University Press to attach the name "Clarendon" carried enormous kudos. (Wasn't "Clarendon" the name of a particular type face they used, or something along those lines?)

I can't really pass judgement on the course myself, never having had anything with which to compare it. I remember the books well, though, and they seemed to do the job, at least in the more esoteric atmosphere of those days. KGS dumped them rather quickly and unceremoniously on Harry's retirement.

Apologies for continuing discussion of this in the wrong "thread"

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1958-65

Current location (optional) Dudley, West Midlands

Paul Greenwood

Paul Greenwood, who taught music in 1958 passed away tonight 12/02/2013.
I do not know what years he was at KBGS, but I think he left in the summer of 1959.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1958-1964

Thread

Adrian Greenwood

I have to report of the death of Adrian Greenwood-ex K.B.G.S.- a great supporter of the Grammar School and a good friend to all who worked for him.

Thread here

Geoffrey Stuart Newiss

I am sadly registering the passing of my brother Geoffrey Stuart.
He attended KBGS (1955-1960)
Geoffrey passed away in Airedale Hospital on Thursday February 28th

The funeral (Celebration of his Life) will take place at St Barnabas Church, Calton Road, Thwaites Brow on Thursday March 14th at 12.30pm. to be followed by cremation at Oakworth Crematorium

God Bless
RIP

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1950-1955

Current location (optional) KEIGHLEY

Mike Dean

My father Mike Dean passed away suddenly on 16th December 2012 of a heart attack. His funeral was on 22nd December in Perth. He leaves a wife and three children Jonathon (39), Andrew (34) and Sarah (29) and a grandson Ollie (1).

We moved to Scotland in March 1990 due to dads work commitments and have lived in a village called Errol ever since. Dad fell in love with the house after seeing the garden and views of the river Tay from the living room window and decided to buy the house before seeing the rest of it! He purchased the house without my mum ever seeing it (luckily she loved the house too when she saw it the day we were moving in!).

Dad worked within the bus industry for 48 years, latterly with Citylink aiming to get to 50 years before eventually retiring.

Dad was happiest when pottering in the garden or winding myself and the dog up and he will be missed greatly.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58 - 64

Current location (optional) Perth Scotland

Re: Mike Dean

I note from the Keighley News that Don Newiss passed away on Monday after a long illness. He was 67. I knew him only slightly but I am sure there are others on here who knew him well

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

Don Newiss

Is this the Don who lived somewhere up near Exley Head, a very good self-taught pianist who appeared on the radio once. Dark-haired, self-effacing fellow. Open to correction but I think that was Don Newiss.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1958-65

Current location (optional) Leeds

Re: Don Newiss

Yes Shaun it is.
He played keyboards for many years with a band called The Black Sheep.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-1964

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: Don Newiss

NEWISS Donald On January 12 2014 after a long illness, Donald aged 67 years. Dear father of Jake and Johnathan, loving grandad, loved brother of Graham and John. Funeral service and cremation will take place at Oakworth Crematorium on Monday January 20 at 10.45am. No flowers by request but donations would be appreciated to Manorlands. A box will be provided at the service for this purpose or may be sent to David Gallagher Funeral Directors, Airedale House, Skipton Road, Utley, Keighley, BD20 6DT.

Donald was my cousin and brother of Graham (KBGS) and John
GOD BLESS
RIP

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1950-1955

Current location (optional) KEIGHLEY

David Pennington

Died at home on 20th February 2014. From the Lund Park area, David had had a serious stroke 17 years ago which had left him seriously disabled and had badly affected his speech. Pam, his wife cared for him at home throughout those 17 years.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1954 - 1960

Current location (optional) Embsay, Skipton

Re: Keith Waddington

Very sorry to hear that, I knew Keith well.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

David Pennington

David Pennington (b June 1946) has passed away aged 67. Didnt really know him but Im sure he went to KBGS. Announcement is in Keighley News this week.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

Charles F D Ruddock

Extracted from the Keighley News Feb 27th

RUDDOCK Charles Frederick David (Charlie)
Passed away on February 14, aged 75 years, with his family by his side at the Royal United Hospital, Bath.
A much loved husband of Anne, dear dad of Liz and Sue, special grandad to Jack, Alex, Ben and Harry.
The funeral took place on Monday, February 24, in Bath.



Known to his KBGS schoolboy cricketing team mates, as Charlie "Tonker" Ruddock

R I P

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1950-1955

Current location (optional) KEIGHLEY

F,K.(Keith)Whalley

Sad to report that Keith Whalley passed away on Thursday, 26th of June, in Airedale General Hospital. Keith regularly attended School reunions along with his wife, Edith and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. His funeral will be held on Friday, the 4th of July, at All Saints Church, Highfield Lane , Keighley, at 12.45 pm

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley(still)

Re: F,K.(Keith)Whalley

Sorry to hear that David. I didn't know Keith well but I did meet up with him on my last two visits home at the Retired Mens Forum. He was keen to hear about an old work mate of his who came down to NZ in the 60s and is married to my cousin.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1947-51

Current location (optional) Auckland, New Zealand

Re: F,K.(Keith)Whalley

F K Whalley is one of the names I remember well from when I entered KBGS back in 1945. He would have been in the 6th Form then and maybe a Prefect - a high jump specialist. Sorry to hear that he's gone.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945 - 50

Current location (optional) Norfolk

John Moffatt

We have received (via Chris, in Singapore) an inquiry from Dr Martin Edwards of Queens College, Oxford, about a former OB, John Moffatt, who died last December.

John left KBGS in 1940 to take up a scholarship at Magdalen College, Oxford, clearly did well academically, and returned to Oxford Queens in 1950, as a junior lecturer in Physics. He remained at the college all his professional life and was elected Provost in 1987, an office he held until his retirement in 1993. Dr Edwards, a self-confessed Lancastrian (from Wigan GS), describes Moffatt as "the most modest Yorkshireman [he] ever met". At School, JM was, apparently, a reasonably good medium-pace bowler, and he never lost his love of cricket.

Dr Edwards has soon to write an obituary for the Queens College Annual Review (having earlier this year 'had the privilege' of giving an address about his former moral tutor, at a major College event) and has asked if we could perhaps provide him with any ammunition about John's schooldays.

So, do any of our older members remember him, did anyone know him personally? Gareth - or maybe Mike Nichols - having recently been concerned with old numbers of 'The Keighlian', have you come across the name? I have to confess that I had never heard of him (though memory could be failing me here). But wasn't there a Moffatt's shop/business in town in my early days - or is that just fantasy on my part? Anyhow, I hope we can come up with something in memory of someone who might well be thought of as a distinguished OB in his field.

Thanks,

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

John Keith Davies (aka 'JK' or 'Jake')

I always seem to 'post' in the wrong section when it comes to 'Obituaries'.

Sorry to hear that one of my mates from Holycroft Infants, Ingrow Primary and KBGS has died.

His death was published in this week's Keighley News (see 'General Forum)

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959 - 1966

Current location (optional) Shoreham-by-Sea

Brian Hargreaves



Brian Hargreaves was a contemporary of mine. We both spent our childhood in Sutton-in-Craven and we both passed the eleven plus and went to Keighley Boys Grammar School. Although I cannot recall seeing him after I left the Keighley area, we did exchange the odd letter and email. We had a common interest in art , for him a profession, for me a hobby! Not having heard anything for a few years I scoured the web and found that he had died in September 2011. Brian was a man with many achievements, a man highly regarded as a result of his work. Perhaps he should be added to the list of Famous Old Boys? News of his death was reported in the newspaper circulating in Rye, Sussex, where he lived.

Rye artist, Brian Hargreaves died aged 76 yrs following a heart attack on 30th September 2011. Brian was the foremost butterfly artist in the country illustrating Collins Guide to Butterflies of Great Britain and Europe published in nine languages. He was commission d by the Royal Entomological Society to paint butterflies in the grounds of Buckingham Palace and his work was presented to the Queen to mark her Siver and Golden Wedding Anniversaries. He has illustrated postage stamps from all over the world.
Brian's work gained him international recognition following radio and television broadcasts.
Born in Sutton-in-Craven in 1935, he attended Keighley Boys Grammar School and trained at Keighley School of Arts and Crafts. He completed his studies at Camberwell School of Art after which he worked on church restoration for a number of years. He worked on several well known churches and cathedrals and on St Paul's Cathedral where he gilded the Cross and Ball atop it's summit. It was whilst working on a display at the Natural History Museum that he received a request for sample illustrations for Collins book on the Butterflies of Britain an Europe which led to a commission to illustrate the entire book. This led to a period of intense focus on drawing and painting butterflies and moths including illustrating the book Butterflies on my Mind by Dulcie Gray, the actress. This publication won the Times Educational Supplement book Award.
Brian's work has been extensively exhibited.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945 -1950

Current location (optional) Norfolk

Re: Brian Hargreaves

Thank you, Denis. He does deserve being in the list of Famous Old Boys.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1937-1944

Current location (optional) Huntingdon

Re: Brian Hargreaves

This message has been passed to me by a facebook friend, Christine Brunskill who apperas to have been Tony Edens niece

It is with sorrow that I have to announce the passing of....
Tony Eden
On the 4th March at Bournmouth Hospital 2015.
He was classics master at K.B.G.S. untill the early 50s. The family moved then to Evesham where they stayed untill retirement then moved to Ferndown in Dorset where their daughter Jennifer lives. They were good friends of my parents. Uncle Tony was 98 yrs old & he & Jean have just celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. R.I.P. xx

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

Re: Tony Eden

One thing about this website, it never ceases to surprise you! Your note, Brian, about Tony Eden - though he was always known at School as 'Joe' - certainly comes out of the blue. Hadn't thought of him in years, but remember him well as Wilbur Bloomfield's predecessor. He was a Kentish man who was fanatical about cricket, when Kent were regularly in the bottom two or three places of the old County Championship. A very pleasant, kindly man, as I remember him, so yes, RIP.

Doug Thompson

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Cottingham, East Yorkshire

Re: Arthur Woods Seeley

I am so sorry to have only just seen this, and offer my sympathy to David, Sione, and other family members

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-64

Current location (optional) Wirral

Re: Arthur Woods Seeley

Like Brian, I too have only just read this news, it was always a good read from Arthur, beautifully written and always informative and entertaining!
My sincere sympathy to David, Sione & family.

Current location (optional) Torquay

William Brian Pugh

I was saddened to learn of the passing of Brian Pugh in February of this year. He was the same age as myself and went through Eastwood School and KBGS(B Forms)with me, playing in the same Rugby XVs, U14s and Colts, during the years 1945-50.
He initially missed out on National Service after failing his first medical but after gaining his degree at Manchester University, he re-applied and passed, joining the Army as Chaplain to the Forces and served from 1967 to 1988. His tour of duty took him to Northern Ireland and Germany. He retired with the rank of Brigadier.
During his earlier career in the Army, as a Captain, he reportedly shared digs with a certain Captain Mark Phillips!
I'm grateful to Peter Norton, his cousin, for details of his Army career. David

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: William Brian Pugh

I too was saddened to read that Bryan Pugh had died but the news probably gives an explanation to why I never received a reply to an e-mail which I sent to him last December. Like you David, I played rugby with Bryan when we were both members of the Keighlians. I pushed in the second row whilst he hooked!
I'd heard that Bryan had been honoured by being made a freeman of Windlesham after many years of service to the local community and I thought that congratulations were in order. We had a long telephone conversation but I never had a reply to the follow up e-mail. Perhaps he wasn't in the best of health. But I'm glad we spoke.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945 - 50

Current location (optional) Norfolk.

Re: John Derek Lee

I met Derek Lee in 1955 when I was in the fourth form and he was well left. I had joined a group of young instrumentalists who were trying to play together as a band. I was recruited in the yard at school by Howard Thompson. Most of them were either pupils or old boys: David Scott; Bill Emmott; Howard; (later replaced by Michael Nicholson); Trevor Hargreaves.

Pretentiously we called ourselves The Hillside Six - later The Hillsiders when we augmented to seven. We were practising with no great degree of discipline in the Ilkley Road Methodist Sunday School. One Saturday afternoon Derek dropped in as he was passing, sat and listened , added a few suggestions and left. He was to come back to subsequent practices which were held on Saturday afternoons with more suggestions and he took over the conduct of the practice by getting us all to play the same piece at the same time in the same tempo. This took some doing.

We made it big in time for a Sunday School concert in the Autumn and took an offer of an engagement (“gig” in modern parlance) for a 50/50 dance in a church hall in the New Year. We had a repertoire of about 10 numbers and 2 or 3 months to enlarge it for the dance. We all worked hard. Derek saw to that and we made it in time to provide a whole evening’s dancing. We were kept busy in the district for the next 5 dance seasons – due in no small part to Derek.
Derek was also a scout leader of the 3rd Riddlesden Troop and for several years a youth leader of the Ilkley Road YPF.

An active member of the church, Derek sang in the choir and put in all these activities with young people in addition to his full-time day job as teacher at St Anne’s School.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1952-1960

Current location (optional) Nirvana

Re: William Bryan Pugh

Thank you for your input, Denis. It seems that that Bryan kept going quite well towards the end of his career. Additional information about Bryan shows that he held the honorary title of "Chaplain to the Queen" from 1985 to 1988, and ended his working years as Chaplain at Heathfield School in Ascot between 1988 and 1995. David

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: Tom Punt


I have just picked up this emailed message from Tom Punt's daughter. A sad loss to us all.

Doug


Dear Doug

It it with great sadness that I am writing to let you know that dad passed away on Friday. His period of illness was mercifully short and when the end came it was quick and peaceful. Mum is obviously devastated; they would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary this September.

I know he was hoping to be with you for this year's reunion, and had already coopted my husband to drive him up. I hope, instead, you will all raise a glass (or several) to a fine man and wonderful father.

I should be most grateful if you would pass on this news to anyone who knew dad and also ensure that his name is now removed from your mailing list.

With kind regards
Cathy Kent

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Greve-in-Chianti, Italy

Re: Tom Punt

Very sad to learn that. Tom was always gracious and enthusiastic in my communications with him.

I first got an email from Tom in Feb 1998! I reproduce it below.
Chris
--------------

Dear Mr Firth

Your note in www.knowwhereco.uk/board/kb583 .html mentions a site you
constructed for your dad but without a www address. do you have this ? I
would be interested. I was at KBGS from 1940-1948 and went from there to
Cambridge. I haven't lived in Keighley since 1952. I have completely lost
contact with anyone I knew at school and guess I may be somewhat older than
your dad? Any pointer you can give me to this site would be useful.

Many thanks

Tom Punt

Re: Tom Punt

Yes, Chris, 'gracious' is the right word for Tom. He and I disagreed politically and from time to time had our exchanges (on Facebook) about specific issues, but he never descended to rhetoric or abuse, his tone was always level, courteous and rational. A very civilized man whom I wish I had known better.

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Greve-in-Chianti, Italy

Re: Tom Punt

It is always sad when you hear of the passing of someone from your early days. I recall from my early days at KBGS that Tom was a prefect so we were worlds apart. When we had a brief contact on here a few years ago, I reminded him that when I was a mere 11 years old, Tom was the biggest man I had ever seen up until then. He was gracious enough to suggest that with the passing of time the difference in size would probably not be so apparent. How true, at 6'4" I fill a fair space myself. I always enjoyed reading Tom's posts on here. RIP Tom.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1947-51

Current location (optional) Orewa, New Zealand.

Re: Tom Punt

I have the 46 Panorama in the Hall and always cast my eye over it and see Tom there . Mary and I did call to see him at his home south of London and shared a few memories of the old school . A real gentleman and not a bit like his school photograph . RIP Tom.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 43-46

Current location (optional) Tasmania

Jack Broadley

Published in the Keighley News on 12 November 15
BROADLEY Jack Nelson On Thursday, November 5, 2015, Jack passed away suddenly but peacefully at Bradford Royal Infirmary, aged 88 years, with his family by his side.

He was born in Bradford, but moved with his family to Keighley during the war and lived in the town for the rest of his life. He was a pupil at Keighley Boys Grammar School.

Although I am the same age as Jack, I am afraid I don't remember him at school.



Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1937-1944

Current location (optional) Huntingdon

Re: Peter Neville Coleman


Sad to report the passing of Peter Coleman whom I knew as a child, for he and his family lived opposite us in Wardman Street, Bradford Road, Stockbridge. After he was married (to Enid Petty) he bought the house next door to us - the house in which he had actually been born. He was a contemporary of Jack Martin, Alan Burridge, Peter Nicholson and our own David Seeley. Six years older than me, I inherited both his school satchel and his copy of 'Deutches Leben', the latter in anticipation of learning German at KBGS, which I dearly wanted to do, but never did.


Published in the Keighley News on 17 December 15

COLEMAN Peter Neville On December 12, 2015, Peter aged 81 years of
Stockbridge passed on peacefully at Airedale Hospital. The dearly loved
husband of Enid, loving dad of Susan and Stewart, dear father-in-law of
Chris, much loved grandad of Emma and Claire and a proud great-grandad
of Isla. Relatives and friends please meet at St Mary’s Church,
Riddlesden on Monday, December 21, at 10.30am, for service prior to
cremation at Oakworth Crematorium. No flowers please but donations would
be appreciated for Cancer Research UK. Provision will be made in church
for this purpose or may be sent to Lyndon M. Leeson Funeral Director, 51
Bridge Street, Oakworth, Keighley, BD22 7PX.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: Peter Neville Coleman

I also noted Peter's obit. in this week's Keighley News and would confirm his arrival at KBGS from Eastwood, the same year as myself, which was 1945. Peter appears on the 1946 Panora(section 3) standing behind and between, teachers Burton and Rannard, with Jack Martin next to him, standing between teachers 'Spike'and Preston. Moving six pupils left of Peter and standing behind 'Frizzy' and Freddie Firth, is yours truly with arms folded and in need of a haircut, it seems. RIP Peter

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley

Lord Asa Briggs

Reported in today's Telegraph. Asa Briggs died today . Probably our most famous old boy. R.I.P

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 43-46

Current location (optional) Tasmania

Re: Lord Asa Briggs

Sad to note his passing. He very kindly sent us a message of congratulations on the School's 300th anniversary last September. He was, as you say, Mike, probably our most illustrious OB as both the first Vice Chancellor of the new Sussex University and his elevation to a life peerage for his services to higher education. I didn't swap stamps with him but did attend some of his lectures when he was Professor of Modern History at Leeds University in 1959.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Melbourne

John Poppleton

POPPLETON JOHN Passed away peacefully in the care of Clifton Hospital on 16th May 2016 in his 89th year. Dearly loved husband of Joan. Loving Dad of Sarah, Stephen and Claire. Dearest Grandad and Great Grandad.
Funeral service to take place at Lytham Park Crematorium on Friday 27th May at 10am.
John and I started at KBGS in 1937 in Form 1, the last year before it divided into 1A, 1B etc and became the 11 plus entry forms, and went through school together until 1944.
At the request of John(AKA Hubert)Gough, another slightly older Old Boy, I tried to contact John Poppleton yesterday with a view to obtaining contact details for his school friend Ronald Dickson and was met with the news firstly that John had passed away and secondly that Ronald had also passed away, both within the last ten days. They both lived in Lytham St Annes and one of John's daughters is married to one of Ronald's sons.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1937-44

Current location (optional) Huntingdon

Ronald Dickson

DICKSON Ronald On 17th May 2016, peacefully in the loving care of Hedges House, Lytham, Ronald aged 90 years. Beloved husband of the late Margaret, much loved father of Christopher, Graham and Nigel, a dear father in law and loving grandad and great grandad.
Service of Thanksgiving to be held at St Annes United Reformed Church on Tuesday 31st May 2016 at 12.45pm preceded by a private cremation.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1937-44

Current location (optional) Huntingdon

Stephen (Steve) Johnson

Although any death is a sad occurrence, when someone younger than you dies then it seems to be so much worse.

From 'The Craven Herald':

JOHNSON Stephen (Steve). On Saturday, May 7th 2016.

Steve passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family. Darling husband of Sharon, brilliant dad of Angela and Kirsty and fun-loving CBeebies - tolerant granddad of Finey, Mia, Gerry and Eleanor.

Steve was the much-loved son of Joan and the late Harry Johnson and loving brother of Martin, Susan and Harry. A service to celebrate Steve's life will be held at St. Michael and All Angels Church, Linton Falls (near Grassington) on Monday May 23rd at 1.00 p.m., which will of course be followed by drinks and the chance to share happy memories. The cremation will be for immediate family only. No flowers please, if you would like to make a donation to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance or Manorlands Hospice there will be a collection plate at the church or alternatively please send your donation to H.H. Birch & Son Ltd., Nab Wood, Shipley, BBD18 4BG

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-1966

Current location (optional) Shoreham-by-Sea

Re: Re Arnold Boddy

Sorry to hear this sad news, David. I remember your brother as secretary of Charlie Peach's stamp club in the early to mid '50s. I wonder - did he pursue that hobby in later life or, like most of us, retain a vague interest that didn't actually amount to active collecting any more?

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: Re Arnold Boddy

Thanks Doug he did keep up his stamp collection

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-64

Current location (optional) Keighley

Raymond Land 1948 - 2016

To KBGS via Highfield Infants (Mrs Swales' [Reception] Class ) in the summer term of 1952, and then Holycroft Infants and Ingrow County Primary, it is with sadness that I have to report the untimely, but peaceful, death of Raymond (Ray) Land on October 5th 2016. Raymond's cremation Service will take place on Friday, October 21st, at Oakworth Crematorium at 11.30 a.m.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959 - 1966

Current location (optional) Shoreham-by-Sea

Re: Raymond Land 1948 - 2016

Many thanks to Dave Baldwin for posting news of Ray's death. Ray was a quiet and unassuming person. On leaving KBGS in 1964 he took up a job at Ramsbottom's on Cooke Lane. His heart was set on working for the Ordnance Survey but sadly that was not to be. He remained in the radio/tv/audio world for the whole of his working life. Dave Baldwin, David Boddy, John Ackroyd and I have fond memories of reunion evenings spent together in the Boltmakers' Arms on East Parade where, despite the availability of Landlord and Golden Best, Ray always drank lager. His final years were difficult, especially following the death of his wife Sylvia in 2012. He was good friend, I had known him for 64 years and he will be sadly missed.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-1967

Current location (optional) Ebberston, North Yorkshire

Re: Henry Bird

It is with very great sadness that I note the passing of Henry Bird, who first taught me as an eight-year old at Eastwood Junior School, when he was doing his teaching practice from (I think) Bingley Teacher Training College. He then went on to a full-time post at Parkwood, where he remained for several years, certainly teaching my younger brother (by eight years) at that School. He spent several years teaching in the Far East - Singapore and Hong Kong - and it was when I myself was working in Singapore ('65-'67) that I ran into him by sheer chance, at an Amah's market in Serangoon Gardens. We subsequently lost touch again after my return to Britain, but I was delighted to find him and his wife, Beth, at the first of the September KBGS Reunions I attended, in 2007. He and Beth were regular attendees until Henry's ill health prevented their coming last September. He was always a great guy, full of fun and 'stories' and, indeed, what made him very popular as a young teacher was the stories he wrote, and regularly read to us, on a Friday afternoon.

RIP

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick (Cumbria)

Re: Henry Bird

I was sorry to read of the death of Henry Bird. He and I met on rare occasions - usually at the reunion dinners when we always had pleasant conversations. He was a delightful man! Henry had flown in Lancaster bombers and he was interested to know that I had painted a watercolour of the aeroplane in flight for another ex serviceman. He was chuffed when I provided him with a copy! We will miss him.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945 - 50

Current location (optional) Norfolk

Re: Henry Bird

Never realised that the picture was yours, Denis - they have it framed, in the hall at Ben Rhydding!

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick (Cumbria)

Re:David Bryan Baldwiin

Sad to report the passing of David Baldwin wo died peacefully at home on the 11th of March, aged 83 years. David, who lived at Long Lee, was at KBGS the same years as myself although in a different Form, and was a Solicitors Clerk during his working life.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: Gordon Milne Warin

Sadly also, to report the passing of Gordon Warin of Glusburn, who died peacefully at Beanlands Nursing Home, Sutton, on the 5th of March. Gordon was in the same Form as myself all through our time at School. He was a good cricketer and played with me in the School 1st X1 in 1950.
I spoke to Gordon's wife Marjorie, on reading about his death in the Keighley News, and the subject turned to Frank Wellock, a teacher at the School and a well known local sportsman, who married one of Gordon's cousins. Margerie then mentioned that Frank was also in 'Beanlands'. He is now 94 years old but his memory is 'not very good'. David

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945-50

Current location (optional) Keighley

Re: Re:David Bryan Baldwiin

Sorry to read about the death of my namesake with whom I spent many a boozy Friday and Saturday night in the Con Club playing thee card brag for 6d stakes.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-66

Current location (optional) Shoreham-by-Sea

Re: John Waddington-Feather

It is with great sadness that I receive news of the death of John Waddington-Feather, with whom several of us corresponded over a number of years. Allan Robinson wrote to tell me, this afternoon:

"Ian Dewhirst rang me yesterday to tell me that John Waddington-Feather died last Friday. He had sounded very frail the last time Ian had spoken to him on the phone. I'm not exactly sure how old he was, probably in his mid-eighties, but he was still writing stories, essays and poems almost to the end of his life. An admirable feat considering his life was dependent on dialysis for many years. Ian is writing an obit for the Keighley News. I thought I'd let you know (though you might have already heard) as I gather you corresponded with one another."

Farewell, and RIP John.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: John Waddington-Feather

John (Waddy) W-F was a great man who taught me English at KBGS and introduced me to a life-long love for literature, especially Dickens and Conrad to whom I have returned throughout my life. He was a natural born enthusiast who will be remembered for many things, not least his publication The Muse that encouraged many of us to overcome a boyhood shyness to write poetry. Always pupil-focused he never raised his voice or threatened violence and knew when to switch from teaching English to entertaining us with tales of his prowess at boxing and his years of National Service. I wrote to him on many occasions in later life and he never failed to reply with warmth and enthusiasm. A lifelong Christian he was never shy about his faith and work as a prison chaplain in Shrewsbury. There is much I could write about J W-F but he will be remembered with affection by many and sadly missed.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1959-1967

Current location (optional) Ebberston, North Yorkshire

Re: Barry M Craven

I vaguely remember Margaret Messenger who lived at the far end of the village of Oakworth, from myself. Roughly bisecting the line between our houses was the church.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1953-58

Current location (optional) Brighouse

Re: Family Notices

Not easy reading this thread. I wonder does anyone know the whereabouts of Mike Hopwood? He went on to Cambridge University I think. Went camping and hitch-hiking ( extinct now just about) with him in our last year at school.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-66

Re: Family Notices

would someone in authority plese delete my above post and this one.Many thanks.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 58-66

Re: Family Notices

alanb
would someone in authority plese delete my above post and this one.Many thanks.
There isn't anyone "in authority" any more. What's posted stays posted!

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 55/60

Current location (optional) Harrogate

Re:Robert Bracken

I have just had a phone-call from Robert Bracken's daughter to tell us that her father has died in hospital from Covid19, following a collapse at home as a result of a bout of pneumonia. He had been suffering from dementia for a year or so, as indeed, has his wife, June, who is now also in hospital, where she too has contracted the Covid virus (as did Robert). Robert was my predecessor as organiser of the KBGS reunions, for many years, and he and June attended several even after he had given up the task of organising, but not in the last seven or so years since he gave up driving, Beverley being rather too far off the map for them to attempt to get to Keighley and back by public transport. Robert was Head Boy at School in, I think, 1946, and I remember there are some photographs of him in the School play for that year, 'Twelfth Night', if ever we could retrieve them! Robert was a schoolteacher, in Essex, I believe, and eventually a headmaster. He was 93. When I still had a house in East Yorkshire I used to call in and see them periodically, always enjoyable visits, but it must be seven or so years since I last saw them, though we always corresponded at Christmas.
RIP Robert.

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: Re:Robert Bracken

I’m quite a lot younger than Robert but I do remember him well. He was a prefect and in the upper sixth form in 1945 when I started school. As a small, short trousered eleven year old I recall being amazed at the size of those ‘big boys’ in the 6th form. By the time I’d made it into the 6th form Robert Bracken had long gone and it wasn’t til I started attending the old boys reunion lunches that I met him again and he was still as good looking some 65 years later. But I do have one recollection you might like to hear even though Robert was not personally involved in the story. People who know me will know that I keep myself occupied in retirement by painting. I had been commissioned to paint a house portrait of a detached house in Cononley up the Main Street. It was meant for a person living in Bedford who had relations who had once lived in the village. I planned to do the job whilst up in Keighley for the reunion but it was pouring down. No chance - so I decided to take a photo and work the picture up at home . The obvious place to get the picture was from an elevated yard in the house opposite and permission was given by the householder, a pleasant lady who generously supplied me with coffee cakes and conversation. I told her that I was in the area to attend an old boys reunion at Utley and she immediately told me that her cousin used to organise the event. Small world! The only other thing I remember was that both Robert and the lady (who made great cakes) had Farnhill/Kildwick connections. Sorry to hear that the lad has gone.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1945 - 50

Current location (optional) Norfolk

Re: Re:Robert Bracken

Robert Bracken must have been a prefect when I was at KBGS . As a small short trousered lad the sixth formers were way up there with the teachers . I wonder if you ,Denis , could point out Robert on the 1946 panorama of the school . It would be interesting to see if it brings any thing to mind .

Current location (optional) Tasmania

Re: Re:Robert Bracken

After posting the previous note on R Bracken ,I have had a search and found the photo of the school prefects for 1945-6. R.J.Bracken is the Head Prefect . As there is nowhere to post a photo , the rest of the prefects are ,. FK Whalley. S.W.Dawson J.G.Bancroft L.Helliwell J.G. Holt K.Paver J.Sharp and W.R.Marchbank
Guess not many around now to remember them

Current location (optional) Tasmania

Re: Re:Robert Bracken

Denis,

Robert was from Kildwick and I remembered him telling me that he always went home for lunch when he was at the School - a feat which seemed well nigh impossible to me! Would you have been able to do that to Sutton and back in what an hour, an hour and a half?

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: Stanley Holt


I have had an enquiry from someone who is trying to trace this person who was at KBGS between roughly 1958 and 1965, Does anyone remember him? Does anyone happen to know where he is now?

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria

Re: Stanley Holt

Doug, I attended from '58 to '65 and I'm pretty certain that he wasn't in that cohort.

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1958-65

Current location (optional) Leeds

Re: Stanley Holt

Thanks, Shaun. Apparently he was tall, fair-haired. and a good rugby footballer - possibly played for Keighlians.

Doug

Years at KBGS e.g. 1958-1964 (optional) 1951-58

Current location (optional) Keswick, Cumbria