ECCLES GRAMMAR SCHOOL

ESSAYAN

Headmaster:

H.H. Fairweather, M.A. (Cantab.) F. R. G. S.

Editors:

No.15.

Summer . 1963

School Officers

PREFECTS:

Girls: Kay Bardsley, Elizabeth O. Bent, Pat Coade, Susan C. Gunn, Diane V. Partington, Pauline McCormick, Enid A. Shepherd, Pauline A. Twine, Jacqueline C. Walton, Anne Withington.

Deputies: Carol M. Johnson, Beulah O'Hara, Lynda Webster.

Boys: G. Ainscow, G. Brookes, R. Griffiths, G. Dyson, M. Hartland, K. Hodson, I. Legge, M. Little, J. Parkinson, P. Pomfrit, T. Robinson, A. Salt, K. Westbrook, A. Worthington, G. Johnson.

Deputy: J. Dodd.

HOUSE CAPTAINS:

SCHOOL LIBRARIANS:

J. Parkinson, G. Hayward, K. Redferm, R. Mills, D. Bommer, D. Grimshaw, J. Caldwell, P. Johnson, G. Morgan, R. McCune, N. Brierley, M. Ramsbottom, Jennifer Jones, Sandra Guest, Marion Pritchard, Rosalind Norton, Mary Bowden.

Editorial

In spite of a vigorous advertising campaign, there has been insufficient interest shown in your magazine. The voluntary contributions were few but some were of a high standard and much hard work had to be done by the editors selecting the best material. The Essayan presents a unique challenge but we should like to see more people rising to the occasion.

During the year it is pleasing to see how much co-operation there has been with other schools in music and athletics. Our one outstanding achievement in competition with other Grammar Schools has been the winning of the Manchester Schools Chess League by our Intermediate team, for which a cup was presented by the Manchester Evening News.

The School and parents in giving money to support the Christmas Fair, the Freedom from Hunger Campaign and the buying of Charity Christmas Cards have been most generous but the pressure needed to persuade them to do such things as attend the School Concert was quite considerable

This year some French pupils from Narbonne are again coming in the Summer holidays to stay with pupils of Eccles Grammar School. Since the "twinning" of the towns, the enthusiasm for this special relationship has not declined and surely this, if anything, leads to a greater understanding and awareness of the peoples of the world

To all the French pupils and all our readers we wish a happy holiday.

M.L.

Staff Changes

At the beginning of the School Year we welcomed to the Staff Miss Jean A Pratt to teach Mathematics. In her spare time she sings in the choir.

Mrs. Marion C. Rutland has taken charge of the Domestic Science Room. She plays games and sings in the choir when not cooking. Mrs. C. Barlow has helped us part time with our English. At Christmas Mr. J. B.Law B.A., joined the English Staff - to our profit and pleasure. Miss B. M. Renshaw did not leave; she merely changed her name to Mrs. B. M. Smith.

In July we shall finally lose Mrs. E. M. Broadley (Mrs. E. M. Bryan). For the last two years she has been taking Needlework part time after having been Gym. Mistress since 1925. Mrs. Broadley goes to live in retirement at Minchinghampton and our best wishes and most grateful thanks go with her. Miss Judith C. Brown, who has helped with biology for the past three years, is going to Bristol University to learn more and still more Biology. Her work and personality have been appreciated by us all. Her future success will give us very great pleasure.

Mr. John F. Smith has reigned in the Woodwork Room, that room of personalities, since 1957. When he was not working in wood, putting up the stage and trying to convert people, he was travelling with School Parties to Italy, France, Switzerland, Spain and Scotland. On one famous occasion, he is reputed to have carried, unknowingly, a large rock in his rucksack. He is going to Loughborough College for a year to learn Metalwork.

Mr. J. B. Watson M.A. Historian, Debater, Liberal -- to our very great regret is seeking pastimes new, where he hopes there may be even more eager grazing than here. A man of many parts, he has touched and influenced most sides of School life for the last seven years. His job has been well done. Our gratitude must be great.

Christmas Fair

Once again the School set itself the task of contributing as generously as possible to our own School Charity, the Sunshine Homes for Blind Babies. As usual during the long months of work before the Fair, the Sixth Form organizers were dismayed and disheartened, being sure that the response would fall far below what was required, and once more, "all was well on the day". When the time came, we had a huge accumulation of saleable goods and articles, and all was ship-shape and ready for the opening by Mrs. Jessel. The smooth running and the absence of last-minute complications was entirely due to the organisation and foresight of the Staff, the Sixth Form, and, above all, to Miss Jackson.

As a result of a magnificent combined effort from the whole School, the record-breaking sum of £250 was sent to the Sunshine Homes.

Congratulations and thanks to all concerned for a fine achievement

Nor was this our only effort to help others;- the Christmas Cards raised £53-17-0, which was divided between the various organizations caring for thalidomide babies, and we sent £ 35, collected in support of the "Freedom from Hunger" campaign.

Nevertheless, let us not be self-satisfied and complacent. We have done something - but need we stop there. The crying needs continue and all of us can and should help.

Pictured here are parents and pupils of Eccles Grammar School at the cake stall at the Christmas Fair organised by the Sixth Form on December 12th, in aid of the Blind Babies. Approximately £ 200 was raised. Photograph by Darrell Jackson, 407, Worsley Road, Winton, Eccles.

Christmas Fair Quiz 1963

School Christmas Cards 1963

The sale of Christmas Cards designed by Pat Coade and Linda Webster raised £ 53-17-0 for charities to assist thalidomide children. This was distributed as follows:-

Society for the Aid of Thalidomide Children £22- 9-0

Chailey Heritage Hospital and Craft School £21-l8-0

Lady Hoare Thalidomide Appeal £9-10-0

W.

Speech Day 1961

Speech Day was held in the Free Trade Hall, Manchester, on November 23rd., 1962. The evening began at 7.30 p.m., with the singing of the School Hymn before an audience of ex-pupils, relatives and friends.

Mr. Fairweather M. A., (Cantab) F. R. G. S. then gave his report on the School's progress over the last year. This was followed by the choir singing J. L. Hatton's "Softly fall the shades of evening". The Chairman, Mr. J. P. McDougall M. M., J. P., was then called upon to make his remarks, after which he introduced our guest speaker, Sir Francis Hill C.B.E, Pro-Chancellor and President of the University of Nottingham.

Sir Francis distributed the prizes and certificates, after which he gave the address. He opened his speech by referring to our headmaster as "young Harold" to the amusement of many of the lower school. He then went on to the more serious subject of how we can best serve our fellow men. He told us of many different kinds of voluntary work we can do as well as working in our chosen careers.

The Choir then sang Arthur Sullivan's "Brightly dawns our wedding day" from "The Mikado". A vote of thanks was proposed by His Worship, the Mayor of Eccles and was seconded by Ald. J. McCann, M.P. The Head Boy, Paul Robinson, then led the School in the customary cheering and the evening was brought to its close with the National Anthem..

Pauline McCormick 6.US.

Open Day

In a School Magazine some years back, an optimistic editor pointed out that a rumour was going around saying that, "Eccles Grammar School, approaching its fiftieth birthday will be superceded by a new building - perhaps some impersonal monster of glass, concrete and corrugated iron!" Although we celebrated our jubilee two years ago and the "smoke blackened edifice" as she put it, still remains as our Grammar School, what may be termed as a minor revolution has since taken place inside its walls.

For, during the summer holidays, the School was overrun by busy painters, rickety ladders, messy pots of paint and planks, all waiting to be tripped over, being accompanied by a chaotic row of banging, shouting, shuffling and whistling with the tinny sounds of transistors blaring in the background. To view in its place a new, tidy, clean and so white looking sight is unbelievable. The long waited for laboratories are now the proud possessions of the happy Science Department, whilst the Library has been redecorated and now owns hundreds more hooks than it did before.

It was to "show off" our magnificent splendour in these alterations and new expensive equipment that an Open Day was held in October. To make the occasion more interesting and entertaining the Sixth Form Boys worked at experiments in their impressive, white, lab-coats in front of an appreciative audience. Next door, in the Biology Lab., huge mobs collected to admire (?) the dissected rats and other animals and similar interesting specimens.

All this time activities continued below, where samples of work on all subjects for all age groups were being displayed. About 50 brave parents, in spite of their offspring's pathetic warnings, undertook their first lessons in that unfathomable subject, Latin. Others surveyed the colourful Domestic Science displays with great interest, eagerly gazing at the neatly arranged delicious-looking dishes. P. E. skills were demonstrated, in the gymnasium, with great success, all under the control of Mrs. B. Smith, who is almost always on the move.

Throughout the school that day there was a buzzing atmosphere of enthusiasm and enjoyment which maintained its height right up to the time when the bell went.

Jennifer M. Jones 6 Lower Arts.

School Concert 1963

The programme opened with a Choir favourite, the Madrigal from the Gilbert and Sullivan opera 'The Mikado'. This was followed by Gervais' "Three Dances", popular in the first Elizabethan age, from the orchestra, who later played, still in the vein of Elizabethan dance, Byrd's "Pavan, "Salenger's Round"; and "Saraband and Rondo" by the Belgian, Juriaan Andriessen, who, although living in the era of another Elizabeth, still achieves the preciseness inherent in sixteenth century music. Continuing this dance theme, Paul Robinson giving his now expected polished performance, played Stravinsky's immensely virile "Tango".

"Small Choir" captured the sadness of unrequited love in the hauntingly beautiful strains of Benet's seventeenth century love song, "Weep, O mine eyes", contrasting with the following gay and unmistakeably English air "In these delightful pleasant groves", of Purcell.

The most difficult composition attempted (and with some trepidation) was undoubtably Alexander Goehr's witty setting of William Blake's paradoxical words into "A Little Cantata Of Proverbs", and consternation was rife among more conservative elements as to its reception. Personal observation made at both performances showed these fears unnecessary.

The first half ended with the full choir's interpretation of Britten's "Hymn to St. Peter", its gloriously soaring solo soprano part, blending finely with the plain-song responses of the rest of the choir.

Music from Parts I and II of Haydn's oratorio "The Creation" of whose musical merit little can be said which has not been said effectively before, comprised the remainder of the programme. Moreover, one could venture the opinion that the choruses together with the solos of L. Woodward, G. Ainscow, T. Jones, A. Salt and P. Thornley were received with the same high degree of appreciation always gained when performed.

To conclude, little criticism would be valid, either of its varied content or the standard of its execution and thanks are offered to Mr. Ellis and all who helped in its production.

R. L. N.

The School Play

The first thing one noticed about this year's play - Goldsmith's "She Stoops to Conquer" - was the set. Instead of the old proscenium, with its ugly cherubs flitting across the top, there was an arrangement of curtains and double-sided screens which made it possible to change the scenes quickly, the stage remaining open to the audience throughout and the scene-shifters getting laughs as well as the actors.

The main theme of this comedy is the story of Miss Hardcastle (Jean Powell), who finds that young Marlow (C. Farlow) the husband chosen for her, is suitable in every way but one - he is completely tongue-tied when talking to respectable women. "But still, he'll do", she says, and starts a plan which involves pretending that her house is an Inn and she is the barmaid - the sort of person young Marlow has no difficulty in talking to. Meanwhile, the love affair of her cousin, Miss Neville (Hazel Brown), and Hastings (C. Coxhill) is meeting opposition. After some very funny complications all ends happily.

Although one or two of the cast were inaudible at times, they were on the whole very good. Especially good were J. Sandham. as the bewildered Mr. Hardcastle, who finds that the "Polite" young Marlow treats his house like an inn and orders him around like the landlord; R. Hollinson, as Tony Lumpkin, Mrs. Hardcastle's son by her first marriage; and Doreen Manson, as the ageing Mrs. Hardcastle, who alternates between addressing her son by over-affectionate terms and hitting him. The highlight of the play was perhaps the scene in which she kneels before her husband, who she thinks is a highwayman, begging him to kill her, but spare her innocent child - who is skulking guiltily in the background. When she finds out his trickery, murder is almost done.

This play was certainly the best-advertised ever, and despite last-minute illnesses, lived up to its publicity. A well known newspaper critic judged it "A flawless presentation".

L.D.

Lament

Each year the eternal question rears its ugly head. And yet, I have received no satisfactory answer. The annual search continues. The never-ending strife goes on, and The End is still nowhere in sight. Neither is the beginning. It seems as if I am to be denied forever, the elusive answer to my question. My queries have brought forth no worthwhile response and consequently I feel despondent. My life is becoming meaningless. A solution to this problem must be found. I cannot possibly go on in this way, year after year. My conscience is dogged by the horrible knowledge that my life is incomplete; that the work expected of me is not yet conceived.

I must face the dreadful truth. I must accept the realization, that the answer to my question, is not yet placed within my grasp

Can no one aid me? What can I write for the Essayan?

N.Emo 6 Omega

The Wreckers

At an unmentionable hour one spring morning, the smug suburban calm was widely shattered by the arrival of the "Wreckers" van, optimistically claiming to remove anything, anywhere. The neighbours were already comfortably esconced behind their lace curtains when, out of the cab, hopped four typical examples of the back-bone of British Society, heavily laden with such inevitable essentials as the tea-caddy and the milk-bottle. We were later informed somewhat pointedly that mugs and sugar are usually provided.

Having passed an hour in the back-breaking task of observing the quantity of furniture to be transported, the British workmen then adjourned to take refreshment in the form of the usual beverage, and then to work! It soon became apparent, even to the most untrained onlooker, that we were in the company of real experts - with a system to which they worked faithfully; namely to remove all seating first, and then to arrange it tastefully in the middle of the road, thereby causing an insuperable obstruction to any unfortunate motorist, who had previously succeeded in circumnavigating the van, also tastefully arranged in the middle of the road. For three chaotic hours the working-class wonders laboured, sustained at intervals with tea and chocolate biscuits; at last they withdrew, taking with them, in a final excess of zeal, all washing apparatus and all tea.

Slowly peace ventured to the shattered district; the neighbours reluctantly replaced their curtains and returned to the nether regions to debate the mornings viewing.

Ex Native

A Trip to Kandy

We had just arrived at Columbo in Ceylon from Australia on the S. S. "Orsova" when we were told coaches were waiting for those who had ordered tickets to go on the coach trip to Kandy, the old capital of Ceylon. We climbed aboard the bus and sat in our seats, Mum, Dad and I were behind the driver. Many of our friends were with us.

We passed through the streets of Columbo and saw some old London buses in the streets. There were many people about as it was a hot day and nobody needed cardigans on. As we came to the outskirts of the town we saw Hindu and Buddhist temples which were very elaborate. Children waved to us. We then came to the country where the workers were rebuilding a road. We also saw baby and adult elephants picking up logs and carrying them to wherever needed. After a while Singalese women wearing fine saris of many beautiful colours appeared on the road carrying their goods from market. We passed many villages, rice fields and coconut plantations At last we stopped for a break; some tourists were buying bananas, but we were warned not to buy any because of infection. Some, like myself, went for a drink of water. After about ten minutes we rejoined the bus and set off for Kandy, arriving at about 1.30. p.m. Then we went to a hotel for lunch, an English meal (thank goodness). The waiters were bare-footed and when they walked the floor shook. Mum, Dad and I had lunch with our friends; they had wine or beer and I had a lemonade.

We then had a conducted tour of the Temple of the Tooth when we had to take our shoes off -- much to our amusement. The guide then took us inside this elaborate Hindu temple. He showed us the exterior as well; two carved stones were some of the elaborate sights.

The coachman took us to the Botanical Gardens and showed us a very varied collection. One was a very sensitive plant because if you touched it the leaves would curl up into a ball. We boarded the coach again and drove past a new college. It was beginning to go dark when we arrived at a cafe for a snack and something to eat. We had a drink and stretched our legs. After about a quarter of an hour we set off to Columbo to our ship. A hot meal awaited us when we returned. I fell asleep after a very exciting day.

Gwen Riley 2b

The Cherry Tree

Colin Robinson 1 C.

Story with a Moral

Kiwanda was the proud Chief of a tribe of head hunters. The hunting of enemies, and the shrinking of their heads to preserve them, was an age-old tradition and Kiwanda kept in a large casket all the heads which his ancestors had shrunk. This casket was kept under guard in the Temple of the Sun God.

One day after Kiwanda had killed his worst enemy and shrunk his head, he decided that it should go in the casket. He told the Temple priest to make ready for the ceremony of opening the casket. At sunrise the next day all the tribe, led by the Chief, marched to the Temple. The secret ceremony was performed and finally the casket was opened. As the Chief bent forward to put the new head in, he saw that the casket contained only dust. Two of the heads had been bitter enemies and had fought and killed all the heads in the casket. The moral of this story is:-"Don't put all your heads in one casket".

Enid Brookes, 4C.

The Goat of Mendes

We waited breathlessly --

The electric light flickered and went out, plunging the great room into shadow. Suddenly a violet, phosphorescent mist began to rise out of the pentacle, swirling with increasing rapidity, gathering height and bulk, spreading and taking form. An awful stench of decay, which yet had something sweet and cloying about it, filled our nostrils as we gazed with repulsion, at a grey face that was taking shape several feet from the floor. The eyes were fixed upon us - malicious and intent. "Surely, this must have come from the pit itself", whispered my neighbour, fearfully. Even as he spoke, the manifestation took on a clear shape. The hands, held forward almost in an attitude of prayer but turned downwards, became transformed into two great cloven hoofs. Above rose the monstrous head of a gigantic goat, appearing to be at least three times the size of any other we had ever seen. The two slit eyes, slanting upwards and down, gave out a red baleful light. Long pointed ears cocked upwards from the sides of the shaggy head, and from the bald, horribly unnatural skull, which was caught by the spluttering light of the long black pitch and sulphur candles, two enormous horns spread out -sideways and up. Before the apparition we knelt as the goat rose, towering above us , it seized from the Satanic altar of glistening red stone, whereupon reposed the ancient "Devil's Bibles" containing all the liturgies of Hell, a golden crucifix, set with precious stones, and with one movement the Holy Cross was flung to the floor where it broke into pieces.

All was ready, the horrifying and macabre ritual of the Black Mass could now commence.

D. Brown 5 Sc. L

The E. G. S. Union

The E.G. S. Union is the successor to the Literary and Debating Society of previous years, and fulfils the same purpose. However, although it was hoped that the Society would be reinvigorated by a change of name, attendances at meetings and debates were no improvement on last year. Perhaps the most lively debate proved to be the one concerned with the rights and wrongs of legalized abortion.

The brunt of the organization of the Union fell upon the shoulders of the committee, to such an extent that not only did the committee plan the debates, but its members also spoke from the platform with regularity. We would have appreciated more "extra committee" members leading the debates; we thank the few who did. Maybe next year will see a considerable improvement.

In the inter-house debates the trophy went to Stuarts who defeated Tudors in a close contest which could have swayed either way.

Our thanks are extended to Mr .J.B. Watson for his interest in our meetings and hope that there will be someone to show the same interest in the Union next year.

P.L. Thomley, President.

Junior Literary and Debating Society

This has been a very successful year for the Junior Literary and Debating Society.

The first event was the Annual General Meeting to elect officials. J.A. Smith and P. B. Gilkinson were elected President and Vice-President respectively. Committee members were elected to represent each year. Jean Shelton was elected as Secretary but resigned in the Spring Term, and was replaced by J. B. Lancaster.

By far the most popular event was the discussion with an attendance of over one hundred and fifty. The most outstanding feature was the competition to find the champion form in which 4S1 were the winners.

We are indebted to Mrs. Smith for her unfailing enthusiasm, and we would also like to thank all the form teachers who judged the inter-form debates.

J. B. Lancaster, Secretary.

C. E. W. C.

Interest in current affairs has continued to grow amongst sixth-formers as attendance at C. E. W. C. lectures this year has shown.

In the Autumn Term we attended an interesting and entertaining lecture, at Manchester University College, on American teenage life, by Mr. Penry Williams, former senior History master at this school, who had recently returned from a trip to the States to study educational systems there. Later this term, a conference on Cuba was held at Stretford Girl's School, which was followed by tea and a square dance.

During the Christmas Holidays 3 members of 6 Lower went to the C.F.W.C. conference in London.

The last evening lecture of the year was held again at the Tech., the subject being the problems facing coloured immigrants living in Manchester, the lecturer giving us an insight into the problems and a better understanding of the plight of these people.

At the end of the summer term it is hoped to send a party to a full day conference at Manchester University, which will be devoted to the subject "Russia - Past and Present".

R. Norton.

The Stretford Conference

On March 27th a party of Sixth-Formers attended the Annual Conference, organized by the Commonwealth Institute at Stretford Grammar School. "The Developing Countries of Africa" formed this year's subject.

Sir James Harford introduced the first of the two main speakers. Mr. John Hall, Commonwealth Correspondent of the "New Statesman" who gave a well planned and informative talk on the political social and economic problems facing the "new" countries of Africa, while Mr. Ali Mazoni, himself an East African, provided us with an interesting and versatile review of East African Affairs, and gave us a valuable insight into the African view of the Western Way of life and its impact on African Culture.

The morning drew to a close with the division into groups to discuss the evidence and to produce some searching questions for the speakers.

After sampling the delights of a good school dinner, we were invited to watch a film and join the throngs in the Sixth-Form common room.

The Answer is Prehistoric

(H. Hesford 2 A)

Could it Happen to Me?

I have read in newspapers about accidents and I have felt sorry for the people involved, but they happen to other people, not like you or me, or 50 we think.

Try to imagine friendly people lifting you out of the wreck of a car, and being laid on a grass verge with a coat spread over you to keep you warm. People gathering around you, calling out to parents who didn't answer and hearing snatches of jumbled conversation -- "The woman's still trapped", "He's only a boy", "The man can stand", "The two men from the other car are lying in the road", "Stand back everyone", "Thank God! Here's the ambulance".

What was in fact about forty minutes seemed like forty hours ending with an ambulance journey, with the siren sounding. Imagine the hazy glimpses of nurses and doctors cleaning up bruises, stitching cuts and being pushed around on trolleys. Oh How cold an X-ray table is at 1 o'clock in the morning when you are clad in vest and pants.

My father does not appear to be too seriously hurt. Is this a dream? What has happened to my mother? The hustle and bustle is now over and I am pushed into a cubicle whilst they decide whether I should be admitted or discharged from hospital. Fortunately after a further two hours I am able to make another cold, miserable ambulance journey to my grandparents. home. It is now 3.30 a.m. and I am told that once again I will be picked up at 10.30 a.m. to return for further X-rays and treatment.

This experience happens to other people, but also people like you and me. I know, because it happened to me!

Stephen Boardman 1 C.

Childhood Memories of Various Members of 3C

The clear vision that I can visibly memorise is not that of my first day of school but the second. This indeed was a memorable occasion for I had at length decided that I detested my class-mates and form-mistress. To get me from my home to school was no mean problem that morning. Firstly I had decided that I wouldn't dress (but after forcibly dressing me my mother made sure I arrived at school by dragging me). On arriving four minutes late I stormed into the classroom and was met by a blast of angry babble from the teacher and several clean neat pupils staring at me in disgust. Without further ado I promptly sat down and "wet" on the chair (which met with much disgust from the teacher!) ... ... ... ...

I remember being made to stand in front of an audience consisting of my mother, father, two aunts, some friends and a woman with a loud voice who kept on shouting and who rather frightened me. Before this formidable audience, I, scarlet faced and very self-conscious, was made to recite the alphabet and the numbers which I got wrong. When they started laughing I burst out of the room, for I hate to be embarrassed in any way or made a public spectacle. Another thing I remember was when I went to Sunday School, I was rather nervous and to reassure me my mother told me to do whatever John, a friend of mine did.

Everything went splendidly at first, then the teacher told John to take the collection box round, and so off I toddled after him. He picked up a box and I finding none picked up an imaginary one and followed him around the class holding an imaginary box in two sweaty, grubby little hands while all the class tittered at us . . . . . . . . .

At Blackpool once my friend and myself were allowed to ride on the donkeys. We did, but they both became rather wild and I slid gradually down the saddle, but before I could fall off the donkey kicked and I rose high in the air and landed in a rut in the sand. I have never been on a donkey since ... … …

My mother was at work; it was a Friday tea-time. My father just home from work was going to fry an egg. He put the egg on the table telling me to leave it alone. This I could not resist, I shook the table leg making the egg fall off. My father was annoyed and picked up a shovel to retrieve the egg. He showed the egg to me and lectured me. I thought he was going to throw the egg at me so I grabbed a tomato and threw it at him getting into more trouble. He tried to hit me so I ran up to my grandmother's, hiding in the airing cupboard. In there I fell asleep and can't remember anything else … … … …

Charade

Margaret Dudley

Chess Club

This year we entered an Intermediate and Junior Chess Team in the Manchester Schools League, the Intermediate team for the first time. The League is divided into the Southern Schools, such as Sale Grammar, and the Northern Schools, such as Bolton, The Intermediate team proved unconquerable and won the Southern Division of the League. They then went on to beat Rochdale Grammar, winners of the Northern Section, thus becoming League Champions and holders of the Manchester Evening News Trophy which has been held monotonously by Manchester Grammar School for many years.

In the Junior League we were unlucky not to win but we were close runners-up to Manchester Grammar School, and the only team to beat them. The teams were as below:-

INTERMEDIATE Riordan G., Riordan B., West, Scholes, Perks, J.A. Smith, Fildes.

JUNIORS Hosie, Cunningham, Morrissey, Parr, A. Jones, Garner, Ruddock. Reserve: Britton.

Fildes (Intermediate) and Jones (Junior) did not lose a game, but both teams were strong throughout.

After a double round of house matches, Tudors became house chess champions, the result being (1) Tudors, (2) Saxons, (3) Normans, (4) Stuarts.

In the individual chess championships, last years senior chess champion, M. Little, was caught off form in the early stages of the competition and lost. The champion is now Ian Perks 4S1. Michael Parr, 3A is Junior Champion. At the moment there are very few 5th and 6th formers in the Chess Club but it is hoped that the present intermediates will be able to form a senior team in the next year or two.

The various attractions of the Chess Club include the familiar ladder competition now in five divisions, the summer handicap competition, the lightning competitions which require technique and the simultaneous chess displays given by Mr. Turner and Mr. Hardman, and by Mr. Heslop from Swinton Chess Club.

Excellent lessons are given to chess recruits at the beginning of the year, teaching the fundamentals of the game.

We owe many thanks to the girls, who provide refreshments. They often stay late to cater for a visiting team. We offer special thanks for the time and interest put into organising the Chess Club by Mr. Turner and for his help in improving the game of many individuals.

M. Little, 6 U. Sc.

Library

The Library continues to grow in its number of books and its number of uses. The many works of fiction, by a great variety of authors, have expanded the fiction shelves so much that there is a shortage of space. The non-fiction books (particularly in the science section) which have been added to the library attempt to cover the growing need of Juniors, as well as Seniors.

The "Paper-backs" have also been augmented in an attempt to cater for the demands of the Sixth Form. Later in the year the familiar green Britannica Encyclopę dias were replaced by a later edition, which was given to us by Eccles Library. Also during the year two other sets of encyclopę dias have been brought, one being a very up-to-date American set.

The interest in magazines continues to grow, and consequently the range has been widened by the purchase of "Understanding Science" and "Animal Life".

Suggestions for further book purchases will always be welcomed, but, before handing in your suggestions, could you please note the author, title, publisher and, if possible, the price.

Thanks must be expressed to all the Librarians for their valuable work during the dinner-hour and after School, and also for their work in processing the new books for the shelves. Special thanks must also be extended to Mrs. Baxter who works hard ordering and classifying the new books.

Let us hope that the Library will continue to be a place of lively study and interest.

J. Parkinson 6 U. Sc.

Girl's Trip to Switzerland

Easter 63

At the height of 7,000 feet, sitting in a cable railway opposite a man with Zermatt written across his left sleeve we had moments when we wondered why we had come. Luckily we saw the funny side of it as with many of these minor incidents while in Switzerland.

We had left the usual cheerful surroundings of Piccadilly Station at 8.15 a.m. excited at the prospect of arriving 25 hours later in sunny Switzerland. When we did arrive it was raining! This soon changed, however, and for the rest of the holiday it was sunny and warm. We stayed at the picturesque little village of Goldwil above Lake Thun. Herr Friedli and his wife looked after us wonderfully.

Most of the holiday was spent visiting the surrounding countryside. We went across Lake Thun by steamer where, to our delight, we went up an almost vertical mountain railway. The view at the top was magnificent. At Interlaken, Berne and Lucerne most of the party said goodbye to most of its pocket-money.

The most memorable day was Monday. We went to Grindlewald and took the train up the Kleine Scheidegg where we were surrounded by the peaks of the Eiger, the Mouch, and the Jungfrau and saw an avalanche in the distance. Some of the younger members of the party were delighted to find that you could hire toboggans and we soon saw that Miss Gardner and Mrs. Rutland had joined them. We did however manage to get everyone down to Lauterbrunnen in time to visit the Trommelbach Caves and Waterfalls.

Too soon, as with all good holidays, the time came to leave, and, replete from the meal on the Manchester train we arrived at Piccadilly once more safe and sound.

G+G+R.

The Boy's Trip to Switzerland

Easter 63

On the Saturday morning before Easter, a group of Eccles Grammar School Boys, all heavily laden and ready to start their journey, arrived at the familiar surroundings of Manchester Central Station. After a smooth crossing on the boat we all settled down for the long and somewhat tiring journey to Interlaken, where we arrived on Sunday at 10.30 a.m.

After our first taste of Swiss food we were allowed the whole day free, so that we could set off to explore Interlaken. On the following day, we went for a trip across Lake Thun to Spief. Our group reached the landing stage to await the boat for the return journey, their bowler hats and walking sticks - purchased in Spief - caused many a foreign head to turn and stare! On the last complete day at Interlaken we went up the Jungfraujoch by mountain railway; a height of 11,333 ft.

On Wednesday we left Interlaken for Locarno where we were greeted on arrival by true Mancunian weather-rain. Luckily however this only lasted for a short time. From Locarno we made a coach trip over the Swiss/Italian border to Milan where, just outside the Cathedral, we were overwhelmed with traders. However, we eventually managed to shake these off.

On the following Sunday we left Locarno for Basle; we spent several hours at Lucerne and, in Basle itself, had time to see the Rhine by night.

The party arrived in Manchester, one hour late, in true British Railway fashion where anxious parents were waiting for us.

The success of the holiday was due mainly to Mr. Smith, Mr. Turner and Mr. Hardman, to whom we extend all our thanks.

J. Parkinson 6 U. Sc.

Prefects

Sandra Pickersgill (3C)

Susan Sutcliffe (3C)

My Desk

D.Chapman 2B

The Beginning of Jazz

Jazz began its life in 1900 in one of the largest Southern States of America, New Orleans. This happy city, at the slightest excuse indulged in either wildly exciting carnivals, lavish balls, colourful processions or enthusiastic marches. During such marches a profusion of bands would also take part. These bands were playing and experimenting with the negro Spiritual Music.

From this struggle inevitable emerged "Kings" of this era. These fine natural musicians and their music were only then in an early stage of development. They used many makeshift mutes half a coconut shell, a bathroom plunger, an old derby hat and a child's sand pail to modify the sounds of their trumpets and trombones.

It was during this period that piano ragtime developed, as bar and club pianists, imitating the banjos of band musicians had the advantage of being able to reproduce the effect of two, three or even four banjos at once.

Ragtime ran a parallel course with Jazz, until it disappeared after the end of World War I, and the many fine pianists and composers contributed to the improvement of jazz. Jazz later spread across to the other States as well. To St. Louis, Memphis, Kansas, Pittsburg, and eventually New York. In new surroundings the bands found tremendous popularity and acclaim for their music.

One of the most successful bands was that of King Oliver and his Creole Jazzband, favourites of Chicago. Their standard of playing was well above average with regard to their instruments, balance, adaptness, fullness and timbre of tone. A great playing power in the band of King Oliver was a young cornet player named Louis Armstrong.

The centre of Jazz in 1927 was undoubtedly Chicago, where the music was styled and tailored by skillful musicians and greatly improved instruments.

S.C. Nelson, Form 2C.

Arran

Twenty seven Biologists, Geographers and Geologists arrived outside the school at 7. 15 on the morning of Saturday 20th April. We loaded the coach with hammers, hand lenses, bottles and old newspapers for wrapping specimens and set off for the field week on the island of Arran, Scotland. On the way we passed through Gretna Green. We finally arrived at Fairlie Pier, where we caught the ferry to Arran. Our first impression of the island was of steep sided mountains dropping down to the sea at Brodick Bay. Contrary to our expectations we did not have to pass through the customs when we disembarked; instead we were picked up by what must have been one of the oldest coaches in Scotland and taken to the Guest House at Lamlash, which looked across the sea to Holy Island.

The party had been previously divided into groups to study different aspects of the island. Some were to study Biology, some the settlements, others the earth sculpture and a select group were to study the Geology. Enthusiasm and high spirits were dampened considerably by heavy rain in the afternoon of the first day. However for the rest of the week we could not grumble, for there was little rain and the sun shone.

A dull and rather damp Monday was occupied for a trip round the island -- a circular tour of 55 miles. There was a visit to the cheese factory, where we were intrigued by the methods of manufacturing the cheese. In the north of the Island we stopped to watch the Red Deer close to the road. A Fifth-Form group with Mr. Thomas, pretended to be map-reading, but at least one was busy inventing a new sport of throwing the duffle bag and has established the record of 2,000 ft. He now has no duffle-bag.

This party spent most of its time scrambling among the crags of Boat Fell.

For the rest of us there was much walking, sketching, talking to farmers and local characters, collecting and analysing soil samples, identifying and counting plants and finally writing. The tatter covering about a hundred sides of quarto paper. There was time for relaxation. Just!

Grateful thanks are extended to Mr. Miller and all members of the staff who made a working holiday very enjoyable.

J. Sandham 6 LA

B. O'Hara 6 LA

A Hiker's View of Arran

We arrived at Brodick Pier through an afternoon mist on Saturday, 20th April, and after a short ride, in one of the few buses on the island (It looked as though it had been there since the internal combustion engine had been invented!) we arrived at the Holiday Fellowship Guest House, at Lamlash, in which we were staying. The hikers, 8 + Mr. Thomas, were billeted in chalets behind the main building.

Sunday 21st.

In the morning some of the party went for a short walk round the Clauchland Hills. After a splendid lunch the whole party went southwards up Monamore Glen and on to an area similar to the peat bogs of the Pennines. This day Mr. Thomas misjudged the time (or did he) and we arrived back an hour late for tea.

Tuesday 23rd.

It was a beautiful day and a certain member of our party donned shorts. We were taken by Mr. Miller in his "Utilabrake" (the back seats of which are very hard) to Sannox at the entrance to Glen Sannox. We went up the Glen to a disused mine, and climbed up to the edge of a corrie, and then on to a ridge overlooking the corrie. Here Mr. Thomas got stuck in a crack on a slab and required two of us to push him up.

From the ridge-top "Coich-na-h-Oighe" we went over "Mullach Buidhe", and from there across the Stacach arete to Goat Fell (2866'), the highest mountain on the island. We completed the day by dropping down from Goat Fell through Brodick Castle Grounds and returned to Lamlash in Mr. Miller's vehicle.

Wednesday 24th

It was a miserable day and after a short ride in the "Utilabrake" we headed up Glen Rosa. It was a long wearisome climb, the last part of which was in cloud until, just as we reached the ridge (Saddle) connecting Cir Mhor to Goat Fell, the cloud started to lift. We went down a steep gully cut in a dyke, led by Mr. Thomas (from behind) and so into Glen Sannox. The Glen was very marshy and several members of the party had arguments with the bogs; and by the colour of the trousers the bogs won. After gaining the main road we had to walk almost to Brodick, before we were picked up by Mr. Miller. By this time we were almost collapsing with hunger. As we were unable to get any food from the village store as it was half-day closing. We survived.

Thursday, 25th

This was another bright day although we climbed up above the cloud level. Mr. Miller again ferried us to Sannox and from there we went up the North side of the Glen and climbed into Suidhe Fheargas. We then continued across the ridge-top, skirting the treacherous "Witches Step" or "Ceumna Caillich". From there we went onto the "Castles" (2735' to 2817'), an eerie place enveloped in cloud. Which way to go? After some hesitation one route was followed, which, as the cloud lifted suddenly revealed the surrounding land, proved to be the correct route. This led onto another craggy peak "Cir Mhor" (2618). It was on the steep descent of this that one enlightened member of the party decided that it was better to throw his duffle bag fell down into the wrong side into Glen Sannox while we went down into Glen Rosa at the other side of the saddle (1 have no information about a reward for the recovery of the wandering bag)

Friday 26th

This was our free day for which we were very thankful. Most of us hired bikes for the day, at a reasonable charge. The weather was hot and windy, and in the morning several sightings were reported of submarines in the Firth of Clyde.

Saturday 27th

We were awakened very early in the morning and after a reasonable meal we all piled into the old coach - the holiday was over. We would like to thank all the members of staff and especially Mr. Thomas for a very enjoyable holiday.

P. D. Johnson. 5 Sc. l.

Lakeland Trips 1963

On a frosty Sunday last December, a party from school left by coach for the Lake District with the object of climbing Scafell Pike, England's highest mountain. We left the coach at the Dungeon Ghyll Hotel in Great Langdale and climbed up to Esk Hause via Rossett Gill and Angle Tarn. When we reached Esk Hause the party divided, the more masochistic individuals continuing over Broad Crag to Scafell, while the other half descended via Grains Ghyll to Seatoller in Borrowdale. Here we rejoined the coach and returned home via Keswick, stopping at Kendal en route

A further expedition to Borrowdale was arranged in March, and thus one Sunday morning found us once again at Seatoller. En route we had stopped besides the ice-bound Lake Windermere. From Seatoller we climbed up amongst the snow - covered conifers to Sty Head Tarn -- a bleak spot surrounded on all sides by snow covered mountains towering high above us. From here we climbed via Sprinkling Tarn once again to Esk Hause. The main party then descended Grains Ghyll while a small group continued onto the snow-covered ridge of Glaramara. Here certain individuals decided that it would be faster to slide down the fellside -- it certainly was!

Eventually after a few minor incidents we all arrived, one way or another, on foot or otherwise, at Seatoller.

Our thanks go to Mr. Thomas and the other members of staff who take part in these activities.

W. A. Chapman 55c.l

The School Trip to the Scottish Highlands, 1963

On Friday, May 31st, after a school dinner, 38 boys and 3 masters set of for ten days in Scotland. Nine hours later, after a warm journey, stopping at Gretna Green, the coach pulled up outside Loch Lomond youth hostel. Once we had been put into dormitories we were free to explore until bedtime, at 10.30 p.m.

At half-past four next morning most people were awake and at 5 o.clock Mrs. Smith told everyone to "go away and not to be back until 7.15 a.m!" Later, after a cold breakfast, the coach set off fur Luss where we halted. Afterwards we stopped by the river at Killin for lunch and paddled - one boy went swimming unintentionally - before going to a car park at the bottom of Ben Lawers, 3984'. This mountain we attempted to climb, with varied success for the reward of a free bottle of pop. The lucky six were all under 14. It was so hot that some equipment, shed on the ascent, was not retrieved on the way back. When everyone was back in the coach we proceeded to Garth youth hostel, another large country house, for supper and bed.

Next morning, having been awakened at 7 o'clock, a more reasonable hour, some of the party went back to Ben Lawers, to find mislaid belongings, and the rest went on a long hike in Glen Lyon, passing through Aberfeldy. Having returned to the hostel we concluded the day with an energetic game of football against a group of boys from Newcastle.

On Monday the coach headed north. Having stopped at Glencoe (the site of the massacre) Fort William (we stopped to do some shopping) and Dingwall (to stretch our legs), we arrived at Carbisdale Castle youth hostel, built in 1910-12 by the Dowager Duchess of Sutherland, whose ghost haunts the place (we did not see her). This was a self cooking youth hostel, so the meals were not quite up to standard, and our dishwashing stopped up the sink. (Proposed; that some girls or a Domestic Science Course be taken next time!)

On Tuesday morning there was a choice. One could go on a 25 mile "slog" with Mr. Smith, in a competition hike, or a 7 mile amble to Shin Fall's via the railway viaduct, with Mr. Turner and Mr. Hardman. The first party returned muddy and exhausted. On the expedition hike the last team in won, the first team having missed one grid reference. The Shin Falls party had a lazy day, and caught two 1' adders.

In the morning we turned south again to Inverness, to do some shopping, stopped at Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated in 1746, and King Ussie, then on to the Pass of Killicrankie. After walking through this Pass, we went to Strath Tummel youth hostel just above Loch Tummel. Here the meals were cooked for us, and as at Loch Lomond and Garth, we heartily enjoyed them.

On Thursday morning we went to Pitlochry to see the Dam and Fish Ladder, which was interesting, but all we saw was one small trout, and some huge salmon - on a fishmongers slab. Back at the hostel some people went for a swim in the ice-cold Loch Tummel, while others explored.

Friday was the first really wet day we had, but the coach took us to Crieff, Linlithgow, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, Stirling Castle, which we visited, and the Forth Bridge, finishing at Hailes House youth hostel, about 5 miles outside Edinburgh. That evening we went into the city and, having visited the castle, separated for sightseeing.

On Saturday June 8th, a boiling hot day, we went back into Edinburgh and, almost penniless, wandered about the city. At 12 o.clock we heard the 21-gun salute fired for the Queen's birthday, and later, the 1 o.clock gun. We returned to the Castle in the evening to watch the Beating of the Retreat, and then toured Edinburgh again, notably Princess Street and the Royal Mile.

Bright and early, next day, we lugged our rucksacks out to the coach, and left. We had decided to make one stop at Penrith, to save making sandwiches. Then we sped on, arriving at Monton Green just after three in the afternoon. We had had a very enjoyable trip, seen many places of historic importance and much beautiful and varied scenery. We are indeed grateful to the masters who organised and lead this lively party on such a comprehensive tour of Scotland.

R. M. Britton 3A

Art Club

The Art Club has continued to meet though in decreased numbers during the past year. Its most vital task has been the display of reproductions around the school, trying to bring about a greater awareness of painting and good design amongst the unconverted pupils of the school.

Practical meetings still prove to be popular with members, but film shows have proved almost as successful this past year. During the summer months the club does not hold organized meetings but its members continue to draw and paint out-of-doors. The pleasure that can be enjoyed by this spare-time hobby cannot be over advertised. The Art Club would encourage everyone to have a sketch book and make use of it, particularly during the summer holidays, when a personally created record of your activities and adventures will provide you with something of lasting interest and value.

A. Z.

Railway Society

The Society was formed in January this year, after a successful trial tour of Doncaster Works and Shed last October.

The Society meets once a week on Thursday evenings and caters for every kind of railway enthusiast, whether they are interested in steam, diesel or electric locomotives. Several films, outlining the organisation of British Railways, have been shown and members are encouraged to bring their own photographs to exhibit at the meetings. Mr. Coles has delighted many steam enthusiasts with his records of railway sounds which include examples of the Doppler effect.

The opening tour of the Society was to the Liverpool area on February 22nd, but unfortunately the number of engines seen, only 171, was not up to expectation.

During March, two tours were arranged to visit the Manchester locomotive depots. Many members made the trips on bicycle and invariably arrived at their destination before those who used public transport. The once-famous Gorton works which closed in May this year was visited on one of these trips.

The most enterprising tour was on the 7th April when the Society arranged a coach trip to the East Midlands. For those who wonder why a railway society travels by coach, it is because many of the depots are inaccessible and trains on a Sunday are few and far between. Ten locomotive depots were visited and some six hundred engines were seen. Whilst visiting Colwick Depot (near Nottingham) we were fortunate to see a locomotive (number 63639) built by Nasmyth of Patricroft, whose steam hammer is included in our school badge.

Approximately 1,500 engines -- l0% of those on British Railways - have been seen at the 25 depots and 3 works which we have visited so far.

Last but not least we would like to thank Mr. Coles and Mr. Hardman for their support and help.

M. J. Ramsbottom.

Camera Club

With the departure of several of its stalwarts, the Camera Club has been non-operative during the current year, although D. Jackson (4 Sc. I) put in some excellent solo work in preparing publicity photographs for the school play.

The club, however, is being revived and it is hoped to start activities next term There appear to be several boys interested in photography and with their help, the club can serve a very useful purpose in the life of the School. Girls, too, will be welcomed. Watch the notice boards for information.

N

Jazz Club

Jazz Club which was started initially for a few enthusiasts in the Sixth-Form in December 1961, is now a flourishing pastime in the music room during the Tuesday dinner Hour.

Encouraged by Mr. Hardman we have been introduced to such as Dave Brubeck, Benny Goodman, Gene Krupa, Stan Kenton, Artie Shaw, Muggsy Spanier, Glenn Miller and vocalists such as Frank Scnshia, Mel Torme and Ella Fitzgerald. Mr. Hardman has very kindly let us borrow his records which we have faithfully returned unbroken. Our Club has a regular attendance of approx. 25 people, most of whom sit tapping their feet, and just naturally nodding their heads (not sleepily I hope).

The emphasis at Jazz Club is on Jazz and not pop music and to give variety, all kinds of Jazz have been played, traditional, modern, swing and mainstream.

We are all very pleased that Jazz Club's flourishing as it is, and our thanks go to Mr. Hardman for brightening our Tuesday dinner hour.

Fiona Collins 4 Bio.

"There are two sides to every question"

(a) The statement "there are two sides to every question" presupposes that to every question there are two answers, a right answer and a wrong answer. To many questions there is a multiplicity of answers, especially questions concerning ethical problems; that is, questions to which the answer may not be proved correct, but depends on the opinions and views of those concerned. The statement that "Major social issues divide mankind into two groups", is an over generalization. Often two sides resolve themselves in such issues, but more usually the issues divide mankind into many groups with widely differing views. Some deny that any God exists at all; Some say that there is a God, and He is in the form of a person; others say that "God is the ultimate reality", or "a God is the universe", or even "a God is the laws of Physics".

It is true however, that each group presents a certain amount of valid arguments and exhibits a certain amount of self-interests. In the question of the existence of God, each group has reasons for its beliefs, and many of their reasons are founded on sound and logical reasoning. Social issues concerned with the government of a country often divide the people into two main groups, namely those who are against the government and those who support the government. As usual of course, there are numerous people who are neither in favour of the governments action nor completely against it, but support some "middle of the road" type policy. Consider the social issue of whether hanging should be abolished - there are in this case two well defined group's of people, those in favour of hanging and those against it. Those in favour of hanging give as their reasons (1) that hanging is a deterrent, (2) That murderers ought to be punished for their deeds, and that their life imprisonment is not enough. In fact, neither of these reasons is valid - statistics prove conclusively that hanging has no deterrent effect, and the doctrine "an eye for an eye" overlooks the fundamental reason for punishment - to deter the offender from further crime, although hanging does, of course, appeal to the sadistic nature of the retentionists. Thus although the retentionists certainly show a certain amount of self-interest (namely submission to their sadistic tendencies), they present no valid argument. The abolitionists, however, present a host of valid arguments so much so, that during the past five years, over thirty books campaigning for abolition have been published while not a single one has been published to explain the use of the death penalty, unless we can count the 1949 Royal Commission's report on hanging, a classic piece of government contradiction and ignorance.

Hence we can see that the statement (a) while being correct often, namely in issues concerning government, is, invariably incorrect, when applied to issues concerning ethics or moral judgements.

(b) In any situation, while there is usually a plurality of choices, they are, by no means all equally good. From any point of view, there is usually one choice which is more desirable than the others. For instance, consider the methods of selection of jurors. Many ways of deciding who should serve on a jury are possible. Jurors could be chosen at random selection (for instance all jurors should have attended grammar schools), possibly even by age (younger jurors, not being as experienced as older jurors, could not be counted upon to give wide decisions). Clearly the possibilities offered are not equally good - random selection seems to be the least effective way of choosing satisfactory jurors since it includes the possibility of lunatics or felons serving on juries. Selection by age seems to be just as impracticable as random selection - a jury of old, feeble-minded veterans is no more capable of giving wise decisions than a jury of inexperienced teenagers.

Hence we see that although every situation offers a plurality of choice, they are by no means equally good - in the case of jurors, selection by merit is more satisfactory than the other offered.

(c) The statement "there are two sides to every question", means that to every question there are bound to be different points of view. The statement does not imply any moral obligation to hear all the points of view before reaching a decision. It can be argued that there are two sides to every question, therefore we ought to hear them all before making a decision, and therefore all parties to a controversy have a right to be heard.. While this logical argument is correct, it is in fact deduced from the original statement not implied by it.

(d) As in statement (c) "There are two sides to every question" does not mean, "you should never come to a decision until you have thoroughly studied the issues"; although it is quite logical to deduce the second statement from the first. Consider the statement "railways are dangerous". The statement means railways are unsafe places for people to walk about. We can see from this statement; "we ought not to go on the railways" but, in the same way as statement (d) or statement (c) the original sentence did not say this.

K. Knight 6 U.

The Feast of Lanterns

One of the pleasures of holidaying abroad is the novelty of seeing things that are never seen at home. One occasion that I am not likely to forget was a Lampion Fest held in the gardens behind the Kurhaus at Wiesbaden near Frankfurt in Germany. The Kurhaus is similar to the English social centre, hut with additional amenities, such as an art gallery, theatre, casino, and beautifully, set out gardens.

It was dusk on a warm August evening when we entered the gardens. Here we bought gaily-coloured paper lanterns and a candle, and after "lighting up" we joined the crowds who had come to enjoy the Feast of the Lanterns. What a festival it was. Chinese Lanterns hung from all the trees and on the grassy bank of the lake were thousands of coloured "night-lights" forming wonderful floral patterns.

We followed the crowds; children perilously hitting each other with their lighted lanterns; teenagers, in summer dress, larking around and plump haus-fraus, plodding up and down the winding lamp-lit paths.

On one lawn a mannequin parade was taking place, and on another people sat at little tables drinking beer and eating heartily to the music of the noisy band.

The lamp-rimmed lake looked most attractive dotted with small gondolas. There were squeals of delight when fountains, illuminated by coloured underwater floodlights, suddenly rose high in me air. We imagined one of the gondolas rising up into the air, resting on the top of a fountain, until we were told that that the fountains were railed around. It was with deep regret that we left this fairy-land scene to go back to our hotel.

J. Jackson, 5. Sc. II

Post-Girl Lost or

That was the Last Post that was

"Don't worry about dogs" I was told by a friendly postman as I left the sorting office on my first morning in this temporary employment. I soon discovered that a dog is not a postman's best friend, in fact, best enemy is a more apt description. Of my many canine experiences my first is quite typical. On entering one garden I was reassured by the owner, as a huge hound raced towards me, that it was harmless and loved children;

"It doesn't bite ... usually; Rover, put that post-girl down!"

From that day forth I have hated corgies.

Everyone who has participated in this occupation has met the old wooden gate which just won't open unless lifted up but who has experienced the look in the occupier's eye when one is caught with the gate in one's hand and no possibility of returning it to its hinges? Who has peered through the letterbox to ascertain the distance the cards have travelled along the hall only to have one's view blocked by two eyes returning the stare? Who has failed to be caught half-way over a garden wall or even replacing the bricks accidentally displaced?

Such experiences are part of the job; or so I told myself as I found one narrow drive completely blocked by a car and repeating the motto sacred to every G. P. O. employee ("The Post must go through") I jumped over a low wall and, alas, too late to realize that in the dark I had found one of the district's few sunken gardens.

These are a few of the experiences which have scarred my-self and my fellow employees, but as I said to one dear old lady as I handed over a continental holiday brochure, "I think it a worthwhile job".

Highland Monarchs

Christine Sunsburg. 2A

Hunting Pink

Most people say that fox-hunting is a cruel blood sport, but once hunting is in your blood you are its slave for life. The huntsman and hunt servants in their pink coats and black caps, the black and tan of the hounds and the eager, straining horses outside a small country inn is a never to be forgotten sight. The signal to move off is given and the hordes, riders and hounds go to covert-side, the covert being a small wood or copse. The fox is cast for and scented for by the hounds who go away with the huntsman's holloas ringing in their ears. The average hunt lasts for about an hour so hounds are bred for speed. At the end of the hunt, how envious you are of the lucky fellow who receives the white tipped brush, but the tip given to the huntsman in return is rather steep - you are expected to give him one pound!

Carole Patton 1 B

Norman House Report

This year has heralded an all round improvement especially on the boys. side of the house. This began last summer when Normans gained second place in the house cricket matches. This increase in effort was renewed this year and encouraging results in the Junior Football and a sweeping victory in the cross country have given us our best place in the house competitions for a number of years.

The results of the girls. games have not been so successful as we might have wished, although there has been no lack of enthusiasm in our efforts. In the netball matches the Seniors were victorious over Stuarts but were narrowly beaten by Tudors. The Juniors were also unsuccessful. Senior hockey was cancelled because of bad weather and the Juniors, although beating Stuarts, were unlucky to lose to Saxons. In house tennis we were well beaten by Tudors and Saxons but scored a 9-0 victory over Stuarts. In last year's sports, Normans came second in a very keen competition. Let us hope that this year we may go one better.

C. H.

Saxon House Report

The girls. Netball and Hockey teams did not do so well as hoped. The Netball teams were narrowly beaten by Tudors, but the Middle and Junior girls deserve high praise for their game with Tudors. In both the Netball and Hockey we came second to Tudors.

After a good start when the boys finished a close second to Stuarts in the Football, there was a singular lack of enthusiasm, for we finished fourth in the cross-country.

In the house Chess Matches we came second to Tudors and best in the first round of the debating championship to the same house.

During the summer term, with more enthusiasm and determination in work and sport we should be back where we belong - at the top.

B. Almond S. Hosie

Stuarts House Report

Stuarts, once again, did not do very well in the sports last year. It is hoped, however, that we will do a lot better this year.

Stuart boys made a good start by winning the Football Championship. The seniors won all their games and the Juniors won one, drew one, lost one. They followed up this success by finishing second in the Cross Country event though this was the first time they had failed to win it since its inauguration.

The girls, unfortunately, did not do as well. The Senior Netball lost both matches, but the Juniors managed to win one, thus gaining five points. The Junior Hockey team was very unlucky to lose their two matches.

Stuarts won the House Debating Championship by defeating a strong Tudor team in the final. The House was not as well supported as it should have been and it is hoped that in future events there will be more enthusiasm.

P. McCormick & I. Legge

Tudor House Report

We started the year well, everyone trying hard. The girls won the House Netball and Hockey competitions while the boys unexpectedly won one of their football matches through their determination and tenacity. Interest in the House Debates was shown at the eliminating round with Saxons but after the miserable performance given by one of the age-groups in the House Cross-Country competition interest in Rouse matters disappeared. We lost the House Trophy because many members of the House failed to make any contribution.

Discipline in the House was very good at the beginning of the year but this also rapidly deteriorated. We hope that we will succeed on Sports Day (as the girls have succeeded on the tennis courts but the House will never be top House with the present lethargic attitude of many of its members.

T

Oh! For Peace and Quiet

How terrible the city is! The noise, the bustle, the hordes of people rushing about with never a moment to spare Row upon row of wickedly persuasive shop windows coaxing you to buy their shoddy goods. You go down an alley as a short cut then the enormous office blocks, grimy and dirty, overpower you The realization creeps upon you that you are all alone among these seemingly doom-filled buildings, and you begin to run. Then suddenly you are on a crowded street, and everyone stares. What a fool you feel!

However, in the country, there is nothing sinister to fear. No noises except, perhaps, the song of a bird, or the moo of a cow. The wide open spaces expel all fear. Helping with the harvesting, ploughing, and sowing. The wonderful aroma of the overturned soil; the ripple of a blue river; a fresh breeze in the leaves of a tree: These are the things that symbolise the everlastingly beautiful countryside to me.

C. Goodwin 1 B.

Last Saturday's Ride

Jennifer Cooke 2 A

Night Vigil

The dark, musty corridors echo to the sound of footsteps on the cold stone floor, the eeriness amplified by the weak light of the candles, reflecting cruelly against the keys, hanging loosely on their ring: the keys which, to the pitiful, tortured faces, thrust against the bars, mean the difference between liberty and an unbearable existence. Suddenly, a hand makes a vain attempt to reach them. Callously, the footsteps resound, undeterred, mocking the stifled sobs.

Through the high, narrow windows, the sound of a rowdy reveller disappears into the distance - the clock, so near, yet so far, chimes . . . . midnight, the end of one terrible day, the beginning of another; yet for one, the beginning of the end, as a piercing scream fills the chill night air. It dies, a thud is heard, a swift agonised departure has been from the years of mental anguish . . . . the harsh, mocking footsteps continue relentlessly, and disappear into the night.

Janet Cunningham 4 IA

Athletic Sports 1961

The School Sports were held on the 18th July at the school field. As usual a large number of parents were present to see some exciting finishes. As has become the custom in recent years Saxons began with the greatest number of points in the preliminary events and maintained their tenuous advantage over Normans throughout.

Two records were broken in the boys' events but none in the girls.! Nash cut .2 secs. off the record for the Junior Boys. 80 yds. hurdles, and Barraclough broke the Middle Boys. 110 yds. hurdles record by .6 secs., but the best performance came before the Sports Day itself when in the Senior Boys Mile, Salt of Stuarts became the first boy in the school to break the 5 min. barrier, a fine performance.

RESULTS OF EVENTS

80 yds. JUNIOR GIRLS (Record 10.2 secs. J.Bevon 1956)

1. P. Moors 2. J. Cochran 3. S. Harrington.

Time 10.8 secs.

440 yds. JUNIOR BOYS (Record 64.6 secs. S.Hosie 1960)

1. Hosie 2. Beeley 3. Hamblett

Time 67.0 secs.

440 yds. MIDDLE BOYS (Record 57 secs. D.Holden 1944)

1. Hosie 2. Greenwood 3. Grimshaw

Time 60.3 secs.

440 yds. SENIOR BOYS (Record 55. secs. A.Virtue 1957)

1. Salt 2. Barlow 3. Barlow

Time 56.8 secs.

100 yds. SENIOR GIRLS (Record 11.8 secs. C. Hardy 1961)

1. L. Stainton 2.J. Francis 3. L. Woodward

Time 13.1 secs.

100 yds. MIDDLE GIRLS (Record 12.4 secs. S.Wilkinson 1948, S..Moody 1961)

1. J. Yates 2. J. Roe 3. B. Blinkhorn

Time 12.7 secs.

100 yds.JUNIOR GIRLS (Record 12.2 secs. J.Pemberton 1942)

1. P. Moors 2. 3. Cochran 3. 5. Harrington

Time 13.5 secs.

100 yds. JUNIOR BOYS (Record 12.3 secs. Vernon 1960)

1. Hosie 2. Beeley 3. Bradshaw

Time 13.6 secs.

100 yds. MIDDLE BOYS (Record 11 secs. K. Walker 1939)

1. Hosie and Vernon 3. Barraclough

Time 11.4 secs

100 yds. SENIOR BOYS (Record 10.8. secs. N.Jones 1939)

1. Jackson 2. Smith 3. Hoath

Time 11.8 secs.

150 yds. SENIOR GIRLS (Record 18.2 secs. C. Hardy 1959)

1. H. Rothwell 2. L. Stainton 3. F. Nutter

Time 20.1 secs

150 yds. MIDDLE GIRLS (Record 19.2 secs. B. Hampson 1954)

1. J.Yates 2. J. Roe 3. B.Blinkhorn

Time 19.3 secs

150 yds. JUNIOR GIRLS (Record 18.2 secs. J.Bevon 1956)

1. P. Moors 2. J. Cochran 3. 0. Owen

Time 20.6 secs

220 yds. JUNIOR BOYS (Record 26.2 secs. A. Vernon 1960)

1. Reed 2. Martin 3. Draper

Time 34.2 secs.

220 yds. MIDDLE BOYS (Record 25.8 sees. 3. Ryder 1952)

1. Vernon 2. Barraclough 3. Stevenson

Time: 26;6 secs.

220 yds. SENIOR BOYS (Record 24.2 secs. W. Wileman 1958)

1. Salt 2. Jackson 3. Smith

Time 26.2 secs.

70 yds. HURDLES MIDDLE GIRLS (Record New Distance)

1. J. Roe 2. B. Ward 3. J. Walsh

Time 12 secs.

80 yds. HURDLES SENIOR GIRLS (Record l2.6secs. H.Wardle 1954)

1. J.Francis 2. H. Rothwell 3. L. Stainton

Time 13.5. secs

80 yds. HURDLES JUNIOR BOYS (Record 14.8 secs. Powell 1961)

1. Nash 2. Norton 3. Nelson

New Record. Time 14.6. secs.

1l0yds. HURDLES MIDDLE BOYS (Record l7.3secs. S. Hosie 1961)

1. Barraclough 2. Hosie 3. Mortimore

New Record. Time 16.7 secs

1l0yds HURDLES SENIOR BOYS (Record 16.7 secs. Aimson, 1961)

1. Jackson 2. Worsley 3. Scott

Time 18.0 secs.

880 yds. JUNIOR BOYS (Record Zmin.21. J.Hodgen 1957)

1. Norton 2. Ashworth 3. Fergusson

Time 2.26 secs

880 yds. MIDDLE BOYS (Record 2min.20.4. B.Hulme 1957)

1. Vernon 2. Jones 3. Greenwood

Time 2.21.2 secs.

880 yds. SENIOR BOYS (Record 2min 11.2 Mills 1957)

1. Barlow 2. Salt 3. Sharratt

Time 2min 20.5 secs.

4 x 110 yards Junior Girls. Relay-

1st, Saxon; 2d, Tudor; 3rd, Stuart. Time: 60.0 secs.

4 x 110 yards Middle Girls. Relay-

1st, Saxon; 2n, Tudor; 3rd, Norman. Time: 55.8 secs.

4 x 110 yards Senior Girls. Relay -

1st, Saxon; 2nd,Norman; 3rd, Tudor. Time: 51.6 secs.

4 x 110 yards Junior Boys. Relay -

1st, Norman;2nd, Stuart; 3rd, Saxon. Time: 59.9 secs.

4 x 110 yards Middle Boys. Relay-

1st, Stuart; 2nd, Saxon; 3rd, Tudor. Time: 52.7 secs.

4 x 110 yards Senior Boys. Relay-

1st, Stuart; 2nd, Tudor; 3rd, Saxon. Time: 50.0 secs.

Results of Events held before Sports Day

Boys

JAVELIN

Middle: 1st, Greenwood, (S); 2nd, R. Jones, (X); 3rd, Barraclough, (S). Distance: 119ft. 11 ins.

Senior: 1st, Hope, (X); 2nd, J. Smith, (N); 3rd, Monk, (X); Distance: 130ft.

SHOT:

Middle: Joint 1st, 5. Hosie, (X), Barraclough, (S): 3rd, Finch, (X) Distance: 35ft. l ins.

Senior: 1st, Smith, (N); 2nd, Barlow, (5); 3rd, Hartland, (N) Distance: 34ft. 8ins.

DISCUS:

Middle: 1st, Taylor, (X); 2nd, D. Grimshaw, (N); 3rd, Barradough, (S). Distance: 118ft. 4 ins. RECORD.

Senior: 1st, Worthington, (T); 2nd, Jackson, (N); 3rd, Barnes, (X) Distance: 96ft. 5ins.

HIGH JUMP:

Junior: 1st, Nash, (N); 2nd, Martin, (X); 3rd, P. Hosie, (X). Height: 4 ft. 3 ins.

Middle: 1st, S. Hosie, (X) 2nd, Taylor, (X): 3rd,Barraclough, (S); Warwick. Height: 4ft. 8 ins.

Senior: 1st, Ramsbottom, (S); 2nd,Hartland, (N); 3rd,J. Smith, (N). Height: 4ft. 8 ins.

LONG JUMP.

Junior: 1st, Norton, (N); 2nd, Beeley, (N); 3rd, Fergusson, (S). Distance: 13 ft. 11 ins.

Middle: 1st, Taylor, (X); 2nd, S. Hosie, (X); 3rd, Vernon, (S). Distance: l8 ft. 11 ins.

Senior: 1st, Salt, (S); 2nd, J. Smith, (N); 3rd, Owen, (T). Distance: l8 ft. 6½ ins..

MILE:

Junior: 1st, Ashworth, (X); 2nd, Harris, (X); 3rd, P. Hosie, (X) Time: 6mins. 6.2 secs.

Middle: 1st, Vernon, (S); 2nd, R. Jones, (X); 3rd, S. Hosie, (X) Time: 5mins, 13.8 secs.

Senior: 1st, Salt, (5); 2nd, Barlow, (S); 3rd, Hartland, (N). Time: 4mins. 58.2 secs.RECORD.

Girls

HIGH JUMP:

Junior: 1st, J. Cochran, (X); 2nd, J. Wright, (N); 3rd, J. Jackson, (S). Height: 4 ft. 0½ ins.

Middle: 1st, D. Roberts, (N); 2nd, J. Roe, (T); 3rd, V. West, (T). Height: 4 ft. 1 ins.

Senior: 1st, L. Stainton,(T); 2nd, J. Francis,(X); 3rd, C. Hardy, (T)

LONG JUMP:

Junior: 1st, P. Moors, (N); 2nd, S. Harrington, (X); 3rd, S. Hadfield. Distance: l2ft. 11½ ins

Middle: 1st, J. Yates, (X); 2nd, J. Roe, (T); 3rd, B. Ward, (X). Distance: 15 ft. 5 ins RECORD

Senior: 1st, L. Stainton, (T); 2nd,H.Rothwell,(N); 3rd, L. Woodward,(S). Distance: 16 ft. l½ ins.

ROUNDERS BALL:

Junior: 1st, M. Snaith, (X); S. Hadfield,(S); 3rd, P Moors, (N). Distance: 150ft. l0ins.

Middle: 1st, J. Roe,(T); 2nd, B. Blinkhorn (X); 3rd, E. Morrisey, (T); Distance: l78ft. 4ins.

Senior: 1st, B, Thomson, (X); 2nd, M. Ripley, (X); 3rd, P. Brockbank, (S). Distance: 172 ft. 6ins

DISCUS:

Open 1st, B Thomson, (X); 2nd, M. Ripley, (X); 3rd, B. O'Hara, (S). Distance: 73 ft. 5 ins.

JAVELIN:

Open 1st, B. Thomson, (X); 2nd, J. Anderson, (X); 3rd, J. Roe, (T). Distance: 82ft. 4 ins.

SHOT:

Open: 1st, H. Rothwell, (N); 2nd, M. Ripley, (X); 3rd,J. Roe, (T). Distance: 24ft. l0ins.

Individual Champions

Junior Girls Middle Girls Senior Girls

1. P.Moors, (N) 1. J. Roe, (T) 1. L. Stainton, (T)

26 points. 32 points 22 points

2. J.Cochran, (X) 2. J. Yates, (X) 2. H. Rothwell, (N)

18 points. 18 points. 20 points.

3. S. Harrington,(X) 3. B. Blinkhorn, (X) 3. B. Thompson, (X)

Junior Boys Middle Boys Senior Boys

1. P. Hosie, (X) 1. S. Hosie, (X) 1. Salt, (S)

Norton, (N) 32 points. 28 points.

16 points 2. Vernon, (S) 2. J. Smith, (N)

3. Nash, (N) 25 points. 22 points.

Beeley, (N) 3. Barraclough,(S) 3. Jackson, (N)

12 points 22 points. 20 points.

House Positions

1st. Saxons …… . 463

2nd Normans ….. 418

3rd Stuarts …… .. 380

4th. Tudors …… .. 345

Forms

JUNIOR

1. 2B 92 points

2. 2A 75 points

3. 2C 70 points

3B

SENIOR

1. 4L 160 points

2. 4S 132 points

3. 6L 121 points

Cricket 1962

Last year our cricket teams did extraordinarily well, the second XI emerging with a better record than the first, Monk proved an adequate captain leading his side to five victories in ten matches and losing four. The second XI carried away the honours in all their five matches and confounded their numerous critics; the team proved that orthodox strokes also pay.

We were all very pleased to see that Garth Hope has had trials for his County and was chosen on one occasion to represent Lancashire Club and Ground. We wish him every success.

Colours:- Rimmer, Bloomer.

Colours Reawarded:- Monk, Hope, Warburton

1963.

At the time of going to Press the first XI of this season has not had much success due to team rebuilding, but gradually they are settling into a balanced team. With the new 2nd XI the story is different as they have had success in all their matches, which augurs well for the future 1st XI.

1st XI Soccer

This year has been one of rebuilding and reshaping the team after two or three years of having the same successful team Consequently the result sheet does not read like a fairy tale. This should not, and does not, reflect the amount of effort put into the game by the team as a whole. McCormick and Pomfrit especially, worked like Trojans and deserved better luck than they had.

Of last year's team, only Salt and Legge remained and so Mr. Jones was left with the unenviable task of selecting a team from scratch. Because of this, and because of the rather severe winter which restricted practice to a minimum, the team could not settle down to any recognised pattern.

We look forward to next year when, with any luck, there will be a nucleus of players who have gained experience this year. With this experience a successful team could well emerge.

On behalf of the whole team, I would like to thank Mr. Jones and other members of the staff who gave up their Saturday mornings to referee our matches and I am sure the team will echo my sentiments when I thank Mrs. Rutland and the girls who provided refreshments after the game.

Scorers: Riordan (10), Dyson (5), Hosie (5), Smith (3),

Salt (3), McCormick, Pomfrit, Parris, Neil, Legge.

Colours: Salt, Pomfrit, Legge, Thomley.

L D. Legge, (Capt).

The Staff Match

The staff match was held this year with the customary humour associated with this event.

As a football spectacle the only class came from Mr.J. Smith who demonstrated his undoubted ability with those neat back heel flicks in the manner that he has made his own; K. Pallin's cool approach to the full-back position shone like a bright star on a dark night; and the excellent goalkeeping, albeit for only 5 minutes, of Mrs. B. M. Smith a guest star of truly brilliant skill.

The girls of the Junior School soon made their presence known with cries of "Come on, D ... ." and "Give it to G ..."

Mr. Coles responded to the adulation by converting a rather dubious penalty decision given by the impartial staff referee.

Parris opened the school's account with a low left-foot-drive from 12.2 yards. Then came Mr. Coles. finest hour: wiping the mud off his right toe cap he calmly measured his run up (bowing to the applauding crowd in a manner befitting a gladiator) and forthwith sent such a drive with his left toe cap that the poor, unfortunate Finch could not contain the ferocious shot.

The final score was 2 - 2 with P. A. Pomfrit converting one of the corners eventually conceded by the referee. This was a fantastic header from all of two yards which richochetted off the post with venemous ferocity. Mr. Jones scored the equaliser with a lucky last minute header from a pinpoint corner on the left by the superlative Mr. Thomas.

The School Team Was:-

Finch, Thomley, Greenwood, Hosie, Legge (Capt.), Pomfrit , Smith, Parris, Dyson, McCormick, R. Jones.

The Staff Team Was:-

Mrs. Smith; Messrs Pallin, Coles, Hardman, C.Jones, Thomas, Ellis, Farrimond, Smith, Turner, Williams. Referee:- A. Briggs.

IDL + AJLS

Cross-Country

Normans must feel very proud that they are the first house to take the Cross Country Cup from Stuarts, who came second this year, are very disappointed that they could not extend their run of victories to ten years; Normans. Junior, Middle and Senior teams all won their races, although only in the middle boys race did a Norman win. Tudor. and Saxon. took 3rd and 4th positions respectively.

Winners:-

Juniors:- Bradshaw (S)

Middle: - Wallwork (N)

Senior: - R. Jones (X)

Norman. 264 Stuarts 307 Tudors 420 Saxon. 426

Eccles and Irlam

Inter Schools Sports 1963

After one postponement because of bad weather the 3rd Annual Inter-Schools Sports were held at St. Patrick's R. C. Sec. School, Peel Green on Wednesday May 22, when boys and girls from 5 schools took part, viz. Ellesmere Park, Winton, Irlam, Alfred Turner, St. Patrick's and Eccles Grammar

From the first event competition was as fierce and support from biased spectators of all ages as fervent if not more so than in previous competitions, and excitement was at fewer pitch throughout the evening. It was a fitting climax to the meeting when in the final event, Stuart Hosie broke the tape to give us first place in the Senior Boys' Relay - how this brought to mind the 1962meeting! -- or in the final reckoning it was Eccles Grammar who led the field to win the competition by a clear 31 points with Ellesmere Park 2nd with 245, Winton 3rd, Alfred Turner next with 214 and St.Patrick's in 5th position.

The girls triumphed in their sections to retain the trophies held last year, beating by four points Alfred Turner in the Junior and Inter Section, and by 17 points Ellesmere Park in the Senior Section. The boys, however although winning overall by a clear 30 points, had to be satisfied with runners up positions in both sections, losing by a mere 4 points to Alfred Turner in the Junior and Inter-groups and by 5 points to St. Patrick's in the fiercely contested Senior Section.

Although most praise must go for the overall performance of the team, for a 4th place gained in a field event carries valuable points and is just as important as a major win if the team is to triumph, full praise must he given to Jennifer Cochrane, 2nd in the Junior Girls Individual awards, Sandra Moodv and Janice Yates who were 1st and 2nd respectively in the Inter Girls group, and Hillary Rothwell, Jennifer Roe and Barbara Thompson, equal 1st and 2nd respectively in the Junior Section. Ably backed up by their team mates these girls paved the way. to success. No boys entered the three events required for individual honour, competition is to fierce for this!, yet special mention must be made of several nameless reserves who stepped in at the last moment and fought their way to success. The strength of a team is in its reserves has never been a more fitting statement ... and how fitting it was to see youngsters emulate the success of elder brothers in years past and in much the same fighting spirit. Who knows, in five years time the final event might bring yet another Seniors Boys. Relay win for Eccles G. S. this time with Peter Hosie taking pride of place from his brother.

A truly pleasing performance by our competitors (one spectator was overheard to say that even Mr. Fairweather looked pleased!) and full praise to all concerned for the success of the evening, including our hosts St. Patrick's and in particular Mr. Cleare for his very able organization. Trophies were presented by Mr. Fred Ireland at the end of the evening.

Tennis 1962

The season started with every member of the 1st and 2nd VI playing with keen enthusiasm. The 1st VI played well with quite good results, and the 2nd VI slowly improved every match. The weekly practices were attended very regularly by both teams, and the standard of play improved a great deal, owing to the valuable coaching of Mrs. Smith.

The season ended with a mixed doubles match against the staff team, with the staff winning by quite a margin.

Both tennis teams. thanks go to Mrs. Smith who, by her keenness, encouraged us all not to give up even if we were at the losing end, and for giving up a great deal of her time for practices and matches.

Tennis Colours were awarded to, E. Gardner, J. Roe, and P. Gerrard.

H. Rothwell 5 T1

Hockey 1962-1963

This year the session started very well, the 1st XI beating Canon Slade for the first time in ten years, and the 2nd XI drawing. Unfortunately, after beating Worsley Wardley, we tended to rest on our laurels and later results were disappointing.

We were further handicapped by the winter freeze, which limited us to indoor practices and do matches for 2 months. Towards the end of the season, however, we improved considerably, the 1st XI managing 3 draws in the Hockey Tournament, making us second in our division.

Our thanks go to Mr.. B. Smith, Mrs. Rutland and Miss Bolton for giving up so much of their spare time, both to coach and umpire.

S. G.

The Netball Report 1962-1963

This years netball, like every other sport, was badly hindered by the severe winter, which caused four of the ten fixtures to be cancelled. The first VII won five matches out of ten, but the season was marred by a poor show at the Lancashire Schools Netball Tournament, where the team only won one match out of four.

The under 13 team have been fairly successful, winning 10 out of their fourteen matches in the Eccles Schools. Junior League, finishing third at the end of the season. The team also attended a Junior Rally.

This year three members of the 1st VII sat the Lancashire County Umpire's Written Test, two out of the entrants being successful.

At the end of the season a school party attended an interesting lecture with slides, at the Manchester Training College, on the West Indies England Netball Teams. recent tour of the West Indies.

On behalf of all the netball teams, I should like to thank Miss Pryor and Mrs. Smith for their valuable coaching, and for giving up so much of their free time, especially for Saturday morning matches.

H. Rothwell 5T1

The Girls' Swimming Club

This year a School Swimming Club has been formed under the supervision of Mrs. Smith and Miss Pryor. Each Friday night about thirty girls, equipped with swim wear, leave school in great haste in order to reach the baths before 3.55 p.m.

There has been a marked improvement in the performance of members, and due to this it is hoped that a full team will be entered for the Eccles and Irlam Schools Swimming Gala which is to be held later this term. The greatest success of the Swimming Class is due to the untiring efforts of Miss Pryor and Mrs. Smith who have sacrificed their hairstyles every Friday night during the past year!

Girls' Athletics Report 1963

The beginning of this season saw some very good results at the Lancashire County W.A.A.A. Annual Championships, held at Blackpool. Mary Edwards won the Junior High Jump Competition with a jump of 4ft. 2ins. and in the Intermediate Long Jump Competition, Jennifer Roe and Janice Yates gained sixth and seventh places respectively. The Junior Relay Team did well to get into the finals after coming a close second in their heat. None of these results would have been possible without the coaching, which was given by Mrs Smith. It is to her we owe our thanks for sacrificing her spare time to train the girls during the Easter Holiday and at lunchtimes. Something must also be said for the girls, who have trained enthusiastically to make the above results possible.

We now look forward confidentially to the meetings this coming season.

B. Blinkhorn 5T1

R. Norton.

Mr. John Ball, B. Sc.

During the week 17th June, Mr. Ball had a rather heavy chest. He stayed at home for most of the week but was fully expecting to be back at work the following Monday. But he died on Sunday 23rd. June.

Mr. Ball, who was educated at Bolton Municipal Secondary School (1912/17) and at Manchester University (1919/24) has taught chemistry at this school since September 1928. During those 35 years, hundreds of boys and girls have learnt chemistry from him, and very many have gone on to take Degrees in the subject and afterwards to lecture at Universities, to teach, to become Doctors, pure scientists, engineers, or clergymen.

Born at Bolton "J. B." was, in his younger days, a very fine tennis player and footballer. He was still a follower and a great fan of the "Wanderers" and "United". In the First World War, he served with the Kings Regiment (Liverpool), and in the second with the Home Guard.

He was always a sincere and convinced Christian who was never afraid to confess his faith nor was he afraid to use the occasion for a little homily on Christian behaviour and virtues.

It was his joy to welcome scholars back to his Lab. where he could recall with them their deeds of long ago. Even if he could not immediately recall a face, he could, as soon as names were given, recall their personalities and triumphs.

He served the school and its pupils for many years with academic distinction, with Christian Love, and with burning zeal. He will be sorely missed.

The sympathy of the School and its members, past and present, go to Mrs. Ball and her two sons.

H. H. F

News of Old Essians

We should record, with gratitude, that the Old Essians. Association have invested a sum of money so that the interest may ensure the yearly presentation of the Old Essian Prizes for Advanced Physics and Chemistry.

Unfortunately, there has been a period of lack of support and so, for the moment, the Society is in a state of "Suspended Animation" until some keen young people form a new Committee, call a General Meeting, and restart the Society.

SUPPORT is what is required - not just verbal approval but the actual bodily presence of people with their own real efforts, willingness and service.

We congratulate the following on their qualifications and appointments.

The following old boys and girls have taken their degrees:-

The following have left us for Universities and Training Colleges: