Comments

Hello Edmond
I enjoyed your memoir, which reminded me of conversations we used to have in the lunch hour whilst, I think, fourth formers.
I hope that I have identified the right person as we were known to each other at that time only by our surnames. I will assume that I have.
I remember you even then, as being sartorially distinguished within the constraints of the uniform, somehow worn a bit more elegantly.
Two themes of conversation that I recall were Scottish footballers( and their superiority to English ones) and automobile tyres ( distinguishing features, and qualities of the different brands.)
I hope life has treated you well. I am now living in a village just north of Cambridge.
Best wishes

Interesting seeing that name Fred Wilson. I used to get the 53 bus from Oldham Road to Xavs with Fred Wilson and Bernard Connolly every morning for a year or so when I started ('62/'63). They were two years above me but didn't seem to mind sharing the upper deck with a Ward Haller.

I most appreciate to have found a site ( I hope) dedicated to the Xaverian College in Manchester? I was a student there from 1963 to 1970 in 3A when I started (and so on). I now live in France, and would appreciate contact from any guy who was in my class. My teachers were MM Connolly, (English), Halstead (French and German), brother Damian (Latin) Dewhurst (Maths) , Crotty (Religion), and I"ve forgotten the names of the others...getting older doesn't help matters ! As we called each other by our surnames, I don't remember many first names ! John Lees is the only complete name I remember (his brother was a friend of my sister in the Hollies) otherwise I recall Corscadden (we waited at the same bus-stop !) and another guy, Farron (from Glossop ?) ,who was asthmatic, like me, and sat next to me in class.. It would be great to have some news from anyone of you ! We could also meet up in France - on your holiday route (we live in the département de l'Ain, between the motorways A5 or A6 before they join up with the A7 to the South of France or Spain (A9) The precise address is ; route d'Innimond, F 01 680 Lhuis / Ain. All the best to all of you, and looking forward to some news from you ! JF

I was the boy who wrote the Latin on the blackboard for Pug Diamond. I cannot remember the full prose but it started:
‘MAGISTER LATINA LINGUA EX PALUDIBUS HIBERNAE’ translated as:
THE LATIN MASTER FROM THE BOGS OF IRELAND
I did Latin A level with Pug in the 6th form, the only pupil. Probably the only pupil ever who did Latin A level at Xavs. Two books Cicero Phillipics book 2 and Virgil Aeneid book 2. Virgil was Latin literature and was not very interesting. Cicero’s Phillipics on the other hand fascinated me and gave me an insight into human behaviour and politics that stood me in good stead in later life. In fact Pug and I spent more time discussing political philosophy than we did Latin. I look back now guiltily as I wagged off many periods to see my then girlfriend, the beautiful Valerie(Val) from the chip shop on Wilmslow Road. However it was always in the afternoon so Pug would hang on a few minutes, receive my excuse from a chum and disappear for a pint down the pub. Pug receives much criticism on these pages but to me he was the best teacher experience I had at Xavs. He was open to discussion, well read and knowledgeable and prepared to pass it on honestly and critically for which I am and ever will be extremely grateful. In fact Pug was my education at Xavs. This would not have happened of course had I not been his only pupil.

It seems amazing but the current division and rift between the Democrats and Republicans in the USA was comparable between the Catholics and Protestants in the U.K. in those days. How times change!

I came back for one reunion about 4 or 5 years after leaving school. A big mistake, the food was appalling. I had a chat with Brother Plunkett after the meal. I was doing quite well and had driven into Ward Hall in a Triumph TR6, which Plunkett had noticed. The same Brother Plunkett who had stopped my leave in Paris 1962 for locking the two Dorm Prefects in their room and also got me expelled from school for the same misdemeanour, until my parents intervened and got me reinstated but out of the A stream and into the B stream in the 5th year. I was not bothered about not being allowed out of our digs as I had copped off with a pretty schoolgirl from Hull whose school was also staying in the same digs and was not allowed out anyway. Back to Brother Plunkett; he said the most unusual thing to me ‘Keith ( not Edmunds) when you were at school we thought you were a very bad boy, however, compared to the lot we have now, you were a Saint!’ I thought about this afterwards and it has stayed with me all my years. In conclusion I can only think the ‘lot they had now’ were incredibly bad boys, or, he was looking for a donation!

I was on the Paris trip in 1962. A few of us in a free moment were standing on a Metro Station. Among us was Bernard (Benny) Hill who became the famous Actor and sadly died recently. On the wall opposite the platform was printed in large black letters ‘DANGER DE MORT.’ Benny was standing with his best mate, whose name I do not remember. His mate, pointing to the printed letters on the opposite wall, said ‘what does that mean Benny.’ Benny quickly replied ‘it is dangerous to die.’ Benny was a year ahead of me and did not go into the 6th form. However he used to stand behind me at assembly wearing his non school uniform bootlace tie and three quarter length black jacket. I never understood how he got away with it. After his obituary was printed in the Times, I emailed this story to them and they printed it. I only saw Benny once after he left. He was with his young son in W.H. Smith at Gatwick main terminal. He was with his young son. We both recognised each other and spent a few minutes reminiscing. He was flying out and I had just arrived. R.I.P. Bernard (Benny) Hill, a great Actor and a great sense of humour.

What an incredibly interesting account Paul. My dad was the reluctant Tom Rawlins! He used to tell us similar terrible stories as well as hilarious accounts of those school days. I thought you should know he was also one of 'those' Wythenshaw boys yet worked hard and eventually became a very beloved Head Master of a Primary School in South West Wales in Pembroke Dock. Sadly he died 2 years ago but is very fondly remembered by all the students and families and I am glad to say he treated everyone he came across with love and respect. I wonder if those terrible teachers motivated him to be the very best and kind teacher he could be. Thank you for sharing about those days. Kind regards, Fiona Cran

Correction to my comment re Anon year group. I actually went there in 1951, age 10.

It was really nice to read these recollections. Anon was seemingly in the same year, and 3s group, as me. My recollections of the teachers are very similar, and I agree that in many cases we talked at rather than taught. We were given limited guidance if ideas didn’t sink in. However, the school did well overall and although I came from a poor family with limited world experience, I left to gain a god physics and maths degree from Imperial, followed by a doctorate in physics. Another benefit was the lifelong friendship with Terry Gidman from Oldham, who sadly died just over a year ago.

Fascinating to read the comments above. I was at Xaverian from 1957 to 1964. I recognise many of my contemporaries in the 1961 photo, particularly my pal Paul Jackson, who has written extensively elsewhere about our days at Xavs.
Overall, I enjoyed my time at the school, mainly because of the camaraderie and the lifelong friendships that followed. Educationally, I obtained sufficient GCE passes to progress to a teacher training college, and became an art teacher. In the 1980s, I used to sell small watercolours to supplement my meagre salary. I still paint.
I took early retirement from teaching and went into property, which has been …rewarding.
So, salutations to all, both living and dead, who were in that bubble in Victoria Park all those years ago.

Very interesting to read these comments. I left Xavs. in 1957.
In hindsight I recognised the poor quality of teaching, at least in my time. And the physical punishments.
I recall the temp Latin teacher who told us to copy into our exercise book the text from the Latin book. That was it week after week whilst he read his book! Or Brother David who told us at GCE stage not to bother coming back if we didn’t get 5 O levels. My parents took that as ‘gospel’ so I left. Yet found later that some with more determined or richer parents did go back. So with two degrees and an accountancy qualification later I have little respect for Brother David.
I attended the funeral of another friend from Xavs. last year Gerard Tiani. I am sure he wouldn’t mind me telling his story of how he avoided PE and games: he told me years later he pinched a pad of sick notes and wrote his own prescription to avoid them. We also met up with Des Morley also sadly passed away and the three of had a good laugh about our younger days. Great friends. I wonder if anyone remembers me now? Best wishes to all Roland Waterhouse

Yes indeed,
Whilst remaining an atheist, I have studied many religions and joined various Buddhist Sanghas in New York, The UK and Singapore.
One of the problems of religions is they become controlled by and corrupted by rulers and involved in politics.
Another is the tendency to build huge places of worship rather than spend the money on really educatiing and helping the poor.
They do offer comfort to those afraid of death or with depression, though many cause these.

Hello Chris. I am responding to your question "Are those of us exploring these memories, just the most boring, smug, or self-satisfied Xaverians?" Well it's safe to say that all the respondents are self selecting, ie they have chosen to post a piece, or respond to a piece on this forum. I guess that makes it more likely that people that boys that did quite well after leaving are more likely to post. But that does not mean that 100% of respondents would be in that category. I suspect that people who are retired tend to look back on their lives, perhaps with an element of nostalgia, or anger, or regret, or whatever other emotions come into play about their school days. And I don't get the impression that most of the respondents are boring or smug. But then I would say that, wouldn't I, because I myself am a respondent!

Or, so I remember.
Top row 2 left Pete Wilkinson, 4 left Tony Booth, 5th Kevin Connery
Top row 4right Ian Colgan, 5 John Kind, 6 John Walker 7 Pete Higginbottom
5th row 4 left Chris Cadman, 5 left Vincent Cassidy.
5th row 3 right Bernard Quigley, 4right Graham Lydiate, 6 John O’Grady.
Just can’t see me !
Francis ( Franny) Barratt.

Contrary to many comments here, I liked being at Xaverian. I think I was considered a bit of an odd ball because, although I wasn’t particularly bright compared to others, I did enjoy learning and RE was one of my favourite subjects. I found it hard to make friends (looking back I am convinced that I was on the Autism Spectrum, albeit high performance, so that I “passed” as neurotypical even if I was a bit odd.
I went to Xavs after passing my 11+, like most others. My friends who also passed the 11+ went to St Bede’s, so I started from scratch with a “disability” that made it hard to make friends. Coming from Moston, I experienced the added disadvantage in that most of the others seemed to come from a “posh” background and a lot had been to another school called “the prep” whatever that was. Being a bit on the spectrum, though, I just took people as they presented themselves to me, either they were friendly or uninterested. Either was fine by me. I never experienced bullying, personally, but I did see it happen. The worst seemed to be directed at Peter Ludlum by a few (I won’t mention any names) who went to this place called “the prep”. I didn’t like bullying or bullies which is why I am amazed that I was never picked on, myself – or maybe I as, but was just too dumb to know it 😉
Going to Xavs was the right choice for me, no St Bede’s, as all my friends had to do classical greek and their A’level choices were with the humanities. At Xavs I did a few years of Latin but was able to specialise in the physical sciences for A’Level. I was never brilliant, but I managed to work hard and, although I didn’t have the good memory needed for history or economics with Maths, Physics and to an extent Chemistry, if I could remember the formulae, I could work things out from basics.
I was lucky to have some great teachers who inspired me when it came to my own teaching career – Mr (John) Underwood, Mr (Tom) Barrie and Mr (Yogi – don’t know his real first name) Baron.
Then as now, I always left things to the last minute and consequently I was frequently late for school. I think I copied out more library cards on detention than anyone else. I was often late going from one class to another and handing in homework and this trait earned me a nickname from of the Brothers (Possibly Bro. Marion) as “the Late Martin Carr”.
Perhaps I will return to this page ad leave some memories. They won’t be amazing, but they will seem familiar a number of people with similar memories.
After moving to Gloucestershire for about 30 years, I now live in Queensland where I can live life at my own pace – though I am still usually late or “just” on time. After all these years I’m not going to change for anyone.

Thanks for your recollections Anthony, especially the comments about Mr Brooker, he was also my art teacher at Xaverian. I went on to become an art teacher as well!

Cyril ….best to make no comment. A strange choice for a leader and educationalist will do.

Paul ,
We are meeting up at the FletcherMoss pub in Didsbury at 7:30 this coming Friday 17 Nov.
A warm welcome awaits if you can make it.
P

Hi Peter,

Phil Glancy was my Economics teacher from 1990-1992. Loved his class and he had a great influence on my future career.
Asking on the off chance if you have his contact info? Always wanted to drop him a note and say thank you.

Ps. Peter Booth tells me that Tony Ford is now a Deacon, so he must still be drinking ,John, thinking of your tale about you both getting bladdered.

Good to hear your recent updates John and Edmund. Yes, we had a good rollout at Mottram, where nattering pre-emptied bowling, but a really enjoyable morning. Thank you.
As for re-unions Ed, people have either moved on or passed on. How about you, John and me meeting up for a pint and some pork scratchings?
Paul

Bloody hell Ed, Not been on the site for a while now and a little disappointed to learn that there hasn't been much appetite for a reunion. Recently met up with Paul Jackson for a crown green bowling roll-out at his Mottram-St-Andrew green between Macclesfield and Alderley. We had a pleasant couple of hours and nattered a lot about the old days and some of the characters of those school days. Yes, it was good to meet up after a lot of years. I trust by now your contract managing days are done and you've "dropped anchor"?? Perhaps it might be worth re-floating the reunion proposal with some recommended meet-up "parameters" specified?? Best wishes mate

John

The 5th boxer's name has just popped into my head - it was Brian Morgan!!

Cheers Jim. Ironically I came across a photo today from my sisters collection who passed away recently. I would enjoy your memories of it. Whats App 07443540819. Email.geoffmiles28@gmail.com. Regards.

Hello Geoff
Thanks for your reply & good to hear your still around- will pass on your regards to our Mike. I now live in Perth, Australia & get the odd email from John Rochford who was at St Peter's and went on to St Greg,s. I remember you being good at sports so hope you are still fit & well
Cheers Jim

Hello Jim. I remember your accident. Leo lived on the corner house off Firbank. I think it was Belsay Drive. Remember all the other lads from St Peters and your brother Mike. Regards. Geoff Miles. 171 Greenbrow.

Hello John. I didn’t know Leo fewtrell that well but my mother knew his mother from St Peter’s Church. I had an accident near their house on Firbank Rd. Wythenshawe & they took me in and tended to me until the ambulance arrived to take me to Wythenshawe hospital, so I am very grateful to the family for that. I was 14 at the time in 1963.

SAME SCHOOL AND TEACHERS, TOTALLY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES.
Reading how Xavs boys had such widely varying feelings and subsequent lives from mine, made me realize that:
- Our home backgrounds genes and prior events predetermined the way we behaved and were treated at school.
- Our fears and expectations governed our reactions to teachers and other kids.
- The teachers would have been influenced in the same way by their prior existences.
- Our subsequent lives were partly decided by Xavs.
- Xavs was one of the relatively few dominating factors in the rest of my life. For good and ill it made me.
My youngest sister recently went to her school reunion. The most interesting attendee had just come out of prison. Are those of us exploring these memories, just the most boring, smug, or self-satisfied Xaverians?

SAME SCHOOL AND TEACHERS, TOTALLY DIFFERENT EXPERIENCES AND OUTCOMES.
On arrival, we were all Catholics and mostly working or lower middle class. Reading how Xavs boys had such widely varying feelings and subsequent lives from mine, made me realize that:
- Our home backgrounds genes and prior events predetermined the way we behaved and were treated at school.
- Our fears and expectations governed our reactions to teachers and other kids.
- The teachers would have been influenced in the same way by their prior existences.
- Our subsequent lives were partly decided by Xavs.
- Xavs was one of the relatively few dominating factors in the rest of my life. For good and ill it made me.
My youngest sister recently went to her school reunion. The most interesting attendee had just come out of prison. Are those of us exploring these memories, just the most boring, smug, or self-satisfied Xaverians?

Just read this reply John. Mondays and Wednesdays are normally ok for me

The comments on prejudice against the non prep kids, the Irish and denizens of Glossop were interesting.
In the years I was there, those of Irish or part Irish descent dominated Xavs. That is hardly surprising. English Catholics were a small percentage of the population.
In those days there were Murphys, Carrs, an O'Gorman, a MacNally, a MacHugh, a Farrel, a Pharacy, a Finerty, a Phelan, an English, a Prendagast and of course me and many others, whose religion was handed down from Ireland. There were verry few people with darker skin. I remember an Igbon, a southpaw in the boxing club, and Phillips, whose religion was likely from Goa. That is where Francis Xavier was buried.
The cliques one was part of depended on the route to school, or prep school attendance, for those who were there. Having to deal with the lower orders must have been tough for them.
Glossop and Whaley Bridge were a long way out and the accent was distinctive. I remember a Norbert Towse and a Price from that route.
The main prejudice we had was likely against Protestants. My parents made me take the long journey from Hazel Grove to school. When we lived in Rochdale, they refused my request to join the cubs, because it was at a Protestant Church. My grandmother regaled me with tales of Cromwell, etc. Other prejudices no doubt followed in later life.
Brothers choosing Irish saints names were common. Fintan and Phelan were Americans. Plunket and most others were from our Islands.
The weird origin of the Xaverian Brothers was posted some time back by Yogi Baron. Essentially, they were stuck in the UK, when the founding group had difficulty to getting to their preferred destination, US.

Chris, sounds like you have had a very interest life! Religion is a very interesting one. I think all the great religions have much to offer but they all tend towards being over controlling. Pay, pray and obey - was the old catholic approach! There some very decent theologians about today who encourage a much critical approach to life. All the best.

Phil, I remember you but you were not in my class. I remember a few of the others you mention and some of the teachers. Gilligan was in my 6th form class. I remember the time he was very ill and everybody praying for him.
We used to distract Pug from Latin by asking him questions. I remember someone asking. 'How did the Romans tell the time.'
He proceeded with a lengthy discourse on water clocks. Other questions followed till it was getting desperate. 'What did they do when it rained sir?' 'Der bloody ting was in der house!' Pug used to go down the pub with pop Eaton and a third one I can't remember. They were a little tipsy in the afternoons.
Probably most of the kids came from poor backgrounds. Like many, I was the first in the family to make it to university. How things have changed!
Life opened my eyes to many countries, cultures and religions as well as political systems, and insights into the starving poor and incredibly wealthy and powerful. I became an atheist on leaving the juniorate at Xavs, but that is another story.

I remember a Brother Benedict at St Anne’s who was an absolute ratbag, and thumped boys on the upper arms when misdemeanours occurred! I was there 1959 through to 1963 at which point I went over to Xaverian. Left in 1965. I now live south of Adelaide.

John, Just catching up on emails / posts etc and saw your recent updates. Sorry to hear about Leo's situation; he was such a colourful and talented character. And that Tony Ford, another old friend, lived in Weaverham, almost a neighbour as I lived in Northwich for a number of years. We could have met up. It's a pity we all didn't get involved in the Old Xaverians, as was, to stay in touch. Although when you're moving around the country with the job that could be difficult. For me as a contracts manager in the civil service, then as a contracts /commercial manager in industry, that meant working in Manchester, London, Liverpool, the south-west, Stockport, Preston and abroad. You've probably seen the post I made about interest in a reunion. So far, no interest. I guess for many those years at Xavs were a bitter /sweet experience. But just part of growing up. It could have been worse had we been at Bede's or Hale Barns by all accounts!! Best wishes, Ed 24th June 2023

Ed, An update re the boxing "missing" name. It came to me in a flash of divine inspiration - Brian Morgan was the 5th Xav's Lancs champion that year!!! Isn't getting old a pain in the arse . . . but it's far more preferable than NOT getting older eh??

Tarra for now!!

An update on the Leo Fewtrell situation Ed. Just heard this morning from his sister Theresa that Leo now has dementia but at least he's still with us in the land of the living!!

Bad news / good news eh?

Stay well Ed

Best wishes,

John

What a lovely surprise to hear from you Ed!! Hope all is good with you and yours? Are you still in Chorlton or have you gravitated to warmer climes? Haven't see or heard from Tony Ford in years. I don't know whether you knew that Tony married Leo Fewtrell's sister Mary - they used to live in Weaverham but no contact since a lot of years. Leo lives and works in the Gulf - airlines etc and I wrote to him recently - but not heard back yet. Hope he's ok. Best wishes to you and yours mate! John

Reference the above comment regarding Miss Eaton and the compass incident: On further reflection it would be more accurate to say "As she spun around she lashed out at..." rather than "As she spun around she belted..." Apologies to Miss Eaton wherever she may be!

‘Miss Eaton, who had taught us music at the Prep, taught us Maths at Ward Hall. I remember her sending me to be caned for forgetting to bring a compass to school ! ‘
Mike, I was very surprised indeed to read this comment as I thought Miss Eaton would have had a strong aversion to compasses for the following reason: The year before, 1957, in Form 3.2 Miss Eaton was leaning over a pupil explaining some maths problem when one of the lads sitting behind in the adjacent row started to hold the sharp end of his compass close to her posterior. Inevitably he was shoved and Miss Eaton let out a shriek of pain as the compass drove into its target. As she spun around she belted every boy within reach and hastily left the classroom. Enter Ward Hall’s headmaster, the normally affable Brother Gerald, who lectured us about unacceptable behaviour. There was no witch hunt to identify the culprits but, if I recall correctly, the whole class got detention.

Hi John, I enjoyed reading your very interesting post. It brought back a lot of memories including how the success of Gerry Dewhurst’s boxing team, not least yourgoodself, gave us all a lift especially as none of our rival schools, St Bede’s at al, could match it. Was the surname of the fifth lad, Neri, whose parent[s] was/were Italian [and not to be confused with Paul Neary]?

Regarding Mr Gleason: I remember the amusing essays he used to set for us. One was ‘The Influence of Henry VIII on the Potato Crisp Industry in England’. You will remember that this alluded to the fact that one of the most popular brands of crisps in the 1960s was Tudor crisps the packets of which bore the image of King Henry VIII !

Until the early 1960s I lived in Chorlton and remember you on the desk at Chorlton Post Office. In fact you may recall that I joined you, Anthony Ford [ex Xavs] and others for a pint one evening in Chorlton, I think at The Horse and Jockey in Chorltonville, though I can’t be sure it was that pub. Best wishes.

Hi Jim- My brother-in -law, John Grisdale, and his younger brother, Jim, were at Xavs around that time. Perhaps you knew them? John, in particular, was especially good at cricket and became president of his local cricket club. Unfortunately both are now deceased.

‘Brother Cyril’s blank, fish-eyed stare at me whenever our paths crossed said it all really’. I don’t think there was anything personal in this, Terry. It was just the way he seemed to be with anyone he didn’t know very well. This compared with the friendly relationship he had with lads he knew from the Prep school whence he came. On one of the rare occasions I bumped into him he berated me for not wearing the school blazer. What caught his eye was that the blazer was double breasted with gilt buttons, including at the cuff, not single breasted with standard buttons. The problem was that I had taken at face value what we had been told about going up to 6th Form, namely, there was a freedom from the strictures of lower school as preparation for our going on to university and/or greater things. So, when I went to the school outfitters, Henry Barrie’s in St Anne’s Square, I asked them whether they could put the school badge on a more stylish blazer displayed in the window. They were happy to oblige. Back to Brother Cyril. I responded to his observation by showing him the Henry Barrie label on the inside of the blazer which surely confirmed its authenticity as a school blazer. Without a word, he went off, no doubt to phone Henry Barrie’s and instruct them not to repeat this misdemeanour. The cult of the individual was not be encouraged!

Just checked our fixture list and the next time Mottram C come to us on Tuesday 25th July!! If you fancy meeting up before that faraway date Paul, just give me bell - 07717254312 - or drop me a line @ Johnwhite930@btinternet.com and we'll sort something out .

BW

John

Traynor long dead and gone Paul. Must have been 30 years ago I'm reckoning. Cannot remember how I found out. No, he was a very weird lad and I suspect a split personality. A bad thing to say but I feel the fact he's dead is quite appropriate in his case.
BW,

John

I'd love it mate! Whenever you are free let's do it. It'd have to be on a Monday or a Wednesday whenever we do it because there are League games on Tues, Thurs and Fridays. Just say when's best Paul!! Sorry it's taken me so long to get back onto this message/site - this was after getting a total seizure/lock-up on viewing the bloody school pic!!

Best wishes mate

I was on Junior Criss Cross Quiz James, many many moons ago now 1958 I believe it was - and won a Dansette record player which my sisters loved!! Don't think Geoff Morris was anything like a bully. Great footballer - and I do mean great - truly in the George Best class!! Hope all is well with you.

Best wishes

John

Hi Paul,

I was bowling last Tuesday 9th at your green in Mottram - played a very nice lady called Brenda MacDonald and was lucky enough to run out a winner to 14. I got mixed up and sent an email to Bob instead of to you re the bowling!! When you see him next, please apologise on my behalf! Look forward to playing there again and indeed if you bowl in the same vets league , at our green, Packhorse B.C. Macclesfield. Best wishes for now and take care mate!! John

Hi John, after a two year lapse. I played at Pack Horsel last night and was hoping you would be there. Keep ‘em rolling
Paul

Brother Plunkett. Thank you I had forgotten his name! He always offered you a choice of a "backhand" or a "forehand" when he was going to hit you.
Most chose "forehand". I chose the other one once and instantly regretted it!

I've actually found the photo you sent me. Actually it's the same 1961 that is on this site.

Paul

Phil

I know it's a long time since we last corresponded but do you remember emailing a Xavs school photo? I think it was a year or two later than the one Bob Cummings has put on this website. Anyway I can't find it on any of my laptops and I was wondering if you could send me another copy? Thanks

Paul

John,
Really great to have caught up with you.
P

Hi Peter & Paul,
Love to hear from you. Do get in touch.

Best wishes

John Vernon (classmate from the Prep & teacher at Xaverian College for 37 years!)

Do you mean Mr Lomas who taught geography, if so I'd love to know how he is.

Too little "Knowledge" can be a dangerous thing!

Peter
It would be interesting to know if Mr Knowles knows about this site! (Mr Archdeacon would be cringing at all this word repetition!)

Bob

Oops Mr Knowles nor Mr Lomas ... apologies !

Another great reunion; the only downside was that the time passed so quickly.
Before the actual reunion a selected few (ie those that wanted a gander) met up at Xaverian and were shown around by the Principal Mr Lomas (old habits die hard!).
He gave us over an hour of his valuable time and took us around what is now best described as a campus.
Some significant additions and alterations but still recognisable as "our" Xaverian.
From around 700 pupils the site now serves over 3,000!
Mr Lomas himself is an old boy and shared several "interesting" tales.

John
I remember you ...we used to walk from St Annes down to your dad's shop near Withington baths.
Nick Hurst used to walk part of the way too.
Happy days.
I would be absolutely delighted to catch up.
P

Hi Peter,
Remember me from the Prep? Sorry to have missed the reunion last Friday. Do drop us a line - it would be great to catch up. John Vernon

We are having another reunion this Friday in the Fletcher Moss pub in Didsbury at around 7.00 pm.
Paul Hughes ... why not come along!
Peter U

<p>I left at 16 in 1955. Joined the family business<br />
is anybody from this era reading this?</p>
<p>Jim McAndrew</p>

Further to the post about the dreaded French O level oral, I remember memorising a most useful phrase for that arduous and very real “no hiding place” event when the inquisitor poses a question about what you may do when on holiday en France.
Here it is. ” Je ne sais pas a ce moment, mais je verrai quand j’y serai.”

One of life’s enduring mysteries Paul. As the Scousers night say “Warra bastard eh la?”

Certainly was posher. After we played cricket against Bedes we ended up in their dining room complete with old masters on the wall and waitresses dressed in black with white aprons. Several priests and definitely felt like something out of a Waugh novel...

My mistake, and thanks for that info. It had a posher image than Xaverian. I think it became fee-paying later on.

The last I heard of Brian was in the sixth form, when we became good mates. He was an active member of the ‘Brag Trio’ with myself and Tom McGrath, during Mr.Huntingdon’s inspiringLatin lessons. He was going out with a Loreto girl, he met at a school dance. He then became one of the great lost, “ What happened to him/them.”

Not heard that one John. The only Anglican vicar reference I do know about was a classmate Robert Gleason who swopped over to C of E, and became a chaplain in a prison if I recall.

Maybe someone remembers an old classmate of mine at Xavs one Brian Morgan from St Anne's Ancoats? Haven't heard anything solid about him for years. There was a rumour manmy years back (as yet unsubstantiated) that he had met the daughter of an Anglican bishop and from that relationship there was a child followed shortly thereafter by a marriage. The rumour was that Brian then followed up by becolming an Anglican vicar. All this is unsubstantiated rumour but I wonder if ANYONE else had heard the same rumour or indeed heard the truth?

Spot on Phil. An odd ball and not pleasant.

The Hitler admiring Traynor went through his whole career at Xavs with both a reputation and attitude. He is pictured in the 1961 school photo on the back row , 45 degrees to the camera, arms folded and a sneer on his face.

Rod Weardon was in my year. He couldn't get enough of Xavs and went back as a teacher.

St Bedes certainly was free to boys who passed the 11 plus exam. Apart from a number of my contemporaries who attended my brother in law attended, free, from 1970.

Pack Horse! Bloody hell John I know it well,but not well enough to say a favourite green. I do keep up regular correspondence with Ian Peers. LikeMottram it is tricky. I took up bowling five years ago, never having bowled before, and really enjoy it. The game itself, the nattering and the banter and the sheer pleasure of meeting so many good folk.

How would you fancy two rollouts,one at Pack Horse and one at Mottram. It will be good to chew the fat about times past. I was with Tom McGrath last week, who was intrigued by our correspondence.

Best wishes
Paul

Marvellous, as I am with Fred Wilson...

Bill Cannon, same year as me and a few weeks younger, is still around and we are in regular contact.

Re 1961 school photo, I’m third row down from top, eighth in from the left.
75 this coming Saturday.

Cheers Phil. Nice to hear your still in the game!!

<p>I had to travel from Royton to Xav every day and some football games on a Saturday. I didn’t play many because it was a long travel. One match, I rode on my push bike on a Saturday to play on GREGS, and ride back. Another teacher, who lived in Oldham. She was Ellen (Nellie) Brierley, who became Mayor of Oldham, in later years. I, sometimes, met up with teachers in later years. One maths teacher, who’s name I can’t remember, met up with my wife and I, in Blackpool on our wedding day on April 1st .1958. Still married.</p>

1948 was the year I was born by the way!

Thanks John, you must be the first Xav boys we've had yet!!!

John Grice,me, started in 1948. Br Martin ,headmaster. Br Xavier, assistant. I’m 85 now. Still married. Colin Barlow (Mancity) played in the same team. Brother Cyril was at the college in those days. MEMORIES , OUT THE CORNER OF MY MIND

Bloody hell Paul – after a 30 year break – I’ve just this last 2 months started playing again (for the Pack Horse Bowling Club in the same league as you!!) Course the eyesight’s not as sharp as once was . . . .

Who have you taken it up with John? I bowl for Mottram in the Macc and Alderley leagues.

We were the first group in Ward Hall, coming from the Prep I thought I understood how fair the Bros were, I had Bro Ambrose most of the time, a gentleman in every sense of the word.
As we got to Ward Hall we found the two pillars had been vandalised
one marked AD the other BC, I was sent to Bro Martin the head,six of the best, can't remember who BC was or even if there was one.
My best teacher was Dan Mallen? he taught history, I was on the school running team with Pete Finnigan, I was there when they made the film, loads of excitement
round Diana Dors especially the PT teacher, Mr Woodward, who wore very short shorts, sorry Brian hurts will go

Ken

I remember that he appeared more human when he was in charge of the Prep. Maybe the extra responsibility of running Xavs proved to be something that weighed heavily. Thanks for the comment.

I recall Brother Cyril (Donald Birtles) quite clearly.
He was a strange character but then some of the Brothers were very strange. He was quite morose and his conversation and speeches never showed any sparkle.

Hello Paul,
Funny you should have taken up bowling as I have just re-taken it up again this last month after near 25 years away from the greens. I don’t recognise Rod Weardon’s name but who knows, if he bowls down in Macc I may well come across him. My rehabilitation to the fine art of crown green bowling like Thursday’s child “has far to go!”

Best wishes mate.

My mistake John. It was John Sullivan. I mixed him up withaJohn White who went in Johnnies Club.. Your twin perhaps. It is interesting that you mentioned you live in Macc.
I have become a born again athlete and have take up crown green bowls. A member of the opposition last week went to Xavs. and lives in Macc. His name is Rod Weardon and he was the year below us.
Paul

Bob, I am surprised you have put my comment on your website ,but now that you have I will tell you you that I am sorry I said sorry to you. I only did it to appease you. I spent an afternoon reading all your comments on your website. It became obvious that what you achieved at Xavs was below what you and your family expected. The final comment "you did not collect the O level results" It was obvious from when you gave your "resume" of your working life. I never asked for it nor gave you my working life. I was happy as a "pig in a sty "when I went to Xavs to collect my Maths O level from a po faced Brother David. The look on his face when he had to give me my Maths O level paper will live with me for ever. I did not have any intention in the first place of paying for the exam. So that was a plus. I had no history at Xavs but you did. You put some exam results on the website. Bob you put yourself out in the open on a website ,I am a nobody a guy who worked in a practical way all his life. If I can see were your at I am sure other people will see your problem. You did not meet your standards. Finish, james kedian

Hello Hannah,
I offer you my condolences to you and all the Glennon family on hearing this sad news. I didn’t know your dad as I am only 76. But I did know of your uncle Peter who also was more than a decent footballer. May your dad rest in peace.

John

Bob, I remember Mr Swallow very well. Looking back I think he was just in front of use when it come to teaching woodwork, but he was a very nice bloke. He bought me a satchel for school. No funny business! He encouraged me on the projects I did at school. Like you I have no artistic talent but prefer practical work which I done for most of my life. Jim

I remember that we had to produce a picture for Mr Curtis who would then decide whether we were worthy of his attention or not. Having no artistic ability whatsoever, I was put in the alternative class, woodwork with Mr Swallow. Tall, thin and devoid completely of hair, he would cycle to college every morning on his green sit-up-and-beg bicycle, complete with large saddlebag.
Where do these memories come from?

Thanks for your kind words, John, about my art (and football )skills of long ago. I'm amazed that some people, like you and Paul, seem to have total recall of the days of our youth. You've reminded me that Owen Curtis's art teaching method consisted of writing a title, such as "A City By Night"or "Danger!", on the board, and everybody had to produce an illustration of the chosen title. Anyone who could produce a passable response was praised, and anyone whose effort didn't meet the Curtis standard was harshly criticised. My own art style was derived from a close study of the Frank Hampson illustrations in the "Eagle," and my efforts usually met with approval.
I taught art for thirty years, but retired with a pension as soon as I could. I then went into property, and to my secret astonishment, have done pretty well, thank you. Greetings to all those of us still alive and kicking. Just remember the wise words of an old teacher who, when he turned 90, was asked if he had any advice to those who wanted to live to a ripe old age and said: "Keep breathing."

Hello Paul,

Checked with our Mike on that “John White mate” question and Mike said the only mate he had called John was John Sullivan a St John’s and All Hallows schoolmate. Phew!! Thought there was a secret twin no-one ever told me about!!

Hi, Are you the White that appeared on TV? This Morris, was he the school bully that I remember? James Kedian

<p>Mike. When did you go to Xavs?I remember me and you (if you are the same Micheal Hewitson) who lived in Caythorpe St Moss Side. James Kedian</p>

I note you’ve replied x 3 Paul!! Was that a result of a system glitch as they all say virtually the same? I didn’t know our Mike had a John White for a team-mate though as he’s never mentioned that to me. I’ll bounce that past him next time I message him in Oz. Yep good memory mate – St.Brigid’s close to Bradford Pit in Bradford Manchester 11 and where my dad and his dad also went to school. We moved from Ardwick to 69 RoyalThorn Rd. in November 1959 and yes at one point in the early 60’s, I was in the same form as Tom. I used to marvel at Tom’s art skills – every bloody theme challenge Curtis gave us, always it was Tom’s offerings that leapt out from the page – always brought a life and a startling 3-D vibrancy to anything he tackled Tom did. Amazing talent!! And I thought I was half-decent in art!! I wasn’t surprised at all to hear he became an art teacher!! Mind you, he was a decent footballer too. From memory, think Tom was in Cuthbert’s house – I was in Bernardine’s. Stay safe mate – life doesn’t get any safer!!

Hi John
Yes. I am a Wythenshawe lad and went to St. John’s school. We were inhe same age group and as I remember you went to St.Brigid’s and moved to Royal Thorn Road about 1961. You may remember Tom McGrath who went to Xavs and is still a good mate. He lived around the corner from you on Greenwood Road.

I know your Mike from going in Johnnies’ Club and played football and snooker with him. He was a good mate of Tommy O’Brien, Chris Yarwood and your namesake, John White. He has recently been touch with Tom McGrath.
Best wishes
Paul

Hi John
Yes I am a Wythenshawe lad. Went to St. John’s. We were in the same year group at Xavs. If my memory serves me right you went to St. Brigid’s and moved to Royal Thorn Road about 1961.
I am still a big mate with Tom McGrath, who lived around the corner from you on Greenwood Road. I met your Mike in Johnnies Club and played with him for the club team. He was a good lad and was a mate of Tommy O’Brien, Chris Yarwood, John White ( your namesake) Good to touch base with you.
Paul

Hi John
Yes I am a Wythenshawe lad. Went to St. John’s. We were in the same year group at Xavs. If my memory serves me right you went to St. Brigid’s and moved to Royal Thorn Road about 1961.
I am still a big mate with Tom McGrath, who lived around the corner from you on Greenwood Road. I met your Mike in Johnnies Club and played with him for the club team. He was a good lad and was a mate of Tommy O’Brien, Chris Yarwood, John White ( your namesake) Good to touch base with you.
Paul

Evening Paul,
So, as you mentioned St John’s Men’s club, were you a Wythenshawe lad too mate? I’m presuming you were around our Mike’s age? He is 5 years younger than me. Yeah, our Mike was a very useful left winger who only ever used his right leg to stand on! He was very much like Forest’s John Robertson in build – took after the Wharmbys (Mam’s side) and that one left peg could fire like a cannon!! He’s in Oz now and been there a lot of years – and we miss him a lot. A couple of our 4 sisters have been over and me and my wife went over for his 50th but that was 20 years ago and now he’s 71. His eldest son also named Michael, tragically died of liver disease 12 months ago yesterday so now is a very sad time for them all in Melbourne. Take care mate.

Nice to hear from you John. I remember you as being a good right back and a good lad. I did come across your younger brother, Michael, who as a good left winger, playing for St. John’s Club. Sad to hear about Geoff Morris, Mike Marsland and Peter Traynor.

Ciao Paul, I hope you are well. There are quite a few us that have got together and are in regular contact. I look forward to a proper catch up. Saluti, Peter Ulleri

Hiya Mike John White here - only just discovered the place. Long time eh mate? Old buggers now us and of course many of the other names from our year although sadly some have "shuffled off". Remember Geoff Morris? Great player Geoff was but he was an awkward swine at times. If we were on the attack and going forward, and I passed the ball about a yard in front of him (so he didn't need to break stride to take the ball), he would snarl and say "I said pass to my feet" as he deliberately let the ball go by. I got nowty with him when he'd done it once too often and I let him have both barrels. Told him he was a lazy get and if he was THAT good he could have run onto the ball without breaking step. He didn't like it but THAT was his big fault in my opinion. A great lad off the pitch though - and I did hear sadly some years ago he had died suddenly whilst at teacher training college - think St Mary's was the name of the college. Saddened to hear that. You may know that Pete Traynor and Mike Marsland also died fairly young - don't know any details about either one of them - grapevine tom-tom was the source. Take care Mike and look after yourself.

Paul

Thanks for your interesting contribution, I look forward to reading the Burgess book. The only Far East book I have read previously would be Orwell's Burmese Days as well as the odd story by Somerset Maugham. My Aunt Madge became a Franciscan nun and taught English in a convent school in Ceylon for many years but received short shrift when Mrs Bandaranaike, who decided to reform education. She presumably took against the catholic involvement after being educated in catholic school herself.

<p>Anthony Burgess went on to teach in the Far East in both Malaya then in Brunei Darussalam. I spent nineteen years in Brunei also teaching in local schools. I met an Indian lady who remembered Mr Wilson as he was then known. His book Devil of a State is all about Brunei and if one compares it with the chapter of his Brunei experience from his biography Little Wilson and Big God, it is very clear how much fact is moulded into fiction. The former book is considered a banned book in Brunei. One would needs to have lived in S.E. Asia to appreciate the book. His Malay Trilogy also demands some experience of the heat, humidity and necessity for a Tiger beer whatever the time</p>

Anthony Burgess attended Xaverian College under his real name, John Burgess Wilson, from 1928 to 1935. He writes in detail about the school in his memoir, Little Wilson and Big God, and in a novel, Tremor of Intent. The documentary described above was made by Granada Television in 1980. Burgess returned to Xaverian in 1987 with a Belgian film crew to make a second film, broadcast under the title The Confession of Burgess.

I started in 1956 as a 10 year old. Anon was wondering why he was 10+.It was because the 11+ exam was in June/July.To save those who had a birthday after that date within a certain time scale having to do another year at school they were included in 11+.
Jock Burns.A absolute “head case”I had many run ins with him including him throwing wood dusters across the room.
Curtis. another “head case” taught you nothing and enjoyed punching you hard if you were out of line outside lesson.
Geography. No idea of name taught you nothing set a lesson then disappeared to the Clarence pub
History. Much the same nothing but dates.I love history but nothing to do with Xaverian College
PE Another “head case” with his slipper when you were wearing thin shorts

Thanks Edmund. Nice to hear from I remember you sitting in the desk behind me in U4.2 and you having a particularly good handwriting style

Best wishes
Paul

I enjoyed reading your recollections, Paul. While many commended Xav's relaxed approach to education, others believed it would have benefited from a stricter and more exam focused ethos like other more successful grammars. From your observations I am guessing that you may have become a very good teacher! Cheers, Edmund Flood 15th March 2021

Hello Bob, Paul McAndrew here.
I’ve just come across your account of our caning by Brother Cyril, an event which I also remember very vividly. Despite being a troublesome teenager who was threatened with expulsion on more than one occasion, I went on to take my A levels at Xavs and held no grudge against Mr Connolly who inspired me to get a grade A in Eng Lit.
The only classmates I still have contact with are Jim Gilligan and Phil Drinkwater but I have many memories of people and events 1960-67..perhaps I’ll share some of them on this site sometime.

Good read. Remember most of what was written. Well done paul..I left 61. Great Times.

I recall a very attractive French lady recruited to assist for a year or so....i also recall her(unusual name...... Hilda Ackers

Some really nice pictures of the new Ward Hall on the college website.

Hi Mike, I visit this site infrequently and have just seen your comment. My enthusiasm for aviation continues to this day - a 71 year old often seen with a ladder and long lens at various airports around the world - and the interest provided me with a good income when I had my own company running conferences and training seminars for CEOs of airlines, ATC authorities and manufacturing companies as well as authorities like the FAA and CAA. I was able to retire 20 years ago on the proceeds! Another memory from the Paris trip that came back to me a few years ago while I was in a branch of Lidl was the fizzy, gloopy green mint drink that some of the lads tried when we went to Versailles. Sold in cans, it was quickly declared undrinkable by those who had spent 50 centimes (10 New Francs to the Pound). Remembering this and seeing cans of French made mint drink concentrate in Lidl, I spent 4 Euro thinking the product might be refreshing and could not be as bad as that in Paris half a century earlier. The instruction said to add either lemonade or water (flat or fizzy) for a refreshing drink. I did, it wasn't, in fact it could best be described using the name of the drink that caused such amusement back in Les Lilas in 1962, which the French insist is the sound made when you unscrew the bottle! The syrup lingered at the back of a cupboard until I discovered it some years later and threw it out.

Hi Phil I’ve only just come across this website and read your account of the Paris trip in ‘62. I was one of the youngsters that went to Orly Airport with you and well remember the journey on the Metro and the bus. I can’t remember who the other person was who went though it might have been Andy Thomas who I was with in St Johns Primary school, we tended to stick together in the early days at Xavs, although he never admitted to being an aircraft enthusiast. The accommodation was exactly as you described it and I recall our minders standing guard on the stair landings to ensure that we didn’t check out the baby doll nighties. There was also a debate about how to use a bidet as we had never seen one before. I was interested to hear about Brother Finbar as I always thought he was a bit strange and was intrigued by his sudden disappearance at the time. He seemed to have an obsession with giving out lines as punishment for trivial infringements. He once gave the whole class 30 lines of “Fresh air is invigorating” because the widow hadn’t been opened before he entered the room.

Frank

I do remember you and I was a right back!
I remember Fr O'Shaughnessy very well. He was the one who used to say 'As Catholics this is what we believe'!
A decent man I think.
We also had Fr Brennan and Fr Lupton our curate who I later played football with for St Roberts men's team.

I think it was a Mr Dan Mallon who taught us history So I'll ask Bob to correct that.

Bob
It was Mr Dan Mallon (spelling?) who taught us history. Can you correct my piece?

Phil

Frank

Don't leave it too long!

Regards

Bob

Phil,I was delighted to read your memories of Xavs in the 1960s, and also to learn that your early years were spent at St. Robert's. My Mum and her brother were brought up in that parish and lived in Brynton Road. Mum talked of Fr. O'Shaughnessy, but I suspect he was before your time!

I was several years ahead of you at the College, but I remember you quite well. I think I was in the juniorate that weekend that you refer to. I also remember that you were a very good footballer - right full back I think(?).

You have a good memory for the teachers but it may have been Clive Price that taught you History rather than Mr. Marsden who was a Chemistry man.

Some day I must write my reminiscences about Xaverian.

Mr Price ... Clive Price the history teacher?
I always remember him as a superb teacher ... strict but passionate about his subject.
Catchphrase ... "When I was a lad...."

Bro "Aidan" was in fact Bro Adrian, generally known as Jack. Also taught geography.
Tom Arkless once stated in a Xavier's house meeting, as part of his regular berating of us when we came second to Bernadine's - remember the house points board in the window of the main building by the door - that you can't buy loyalty. After the meeting a second year, by the name of Fenlon who had rather prominent ears and who in later life became an Oxford academic, was seen outside shouting "loyalty for sale, buy your loyalty here". Unfortunately Arkless heard the shouts and took great pleasure in propelling the said Fenlon by means of a grip on one of his ears, all the way to retribution dished out by the Chimp.
Mr Swallow taught woodwork. An ex Anglican monk, he married late in life. Told my parents I would never amount to anything as I talked too much. I retired comfortably at about the age he started teaching at Xav's having spent a short working life first in sales, later in conference organisation and management. Talking got me a rather comfortable life style.
Mr Curtis had a lisp and was given to getting red in the face. Commonly known as Wufus.
David Ansboro did become Head Boy. Inevitable as his dad was head of the governors.
There was Bro Guy from the USA, in fact from the town of Erie which he called the mistake on the lake. I've been there - he was right. There was Bro Larkin, a crew cut bully who had previously taught in the Bronx and thought Rusholme was the Manchester equivalent and we were all gang members. Used to throw threepenny bits to keep order. Hated him as he insisted on calling me Philly boy.
Bro Ignatius was a totally different American. Taught RI to our sixth form. Had a massive hang up about sex and told us he became a brother to keep out of hell where women would have led him. Said we should take a phone book with us on a night out in case a girl had to sit on our knee in the back of a car. Back seat of a 161 bus more like! He died young back in the States mountaineering but not before he had impressed us with the righteousness of civil rights and the wrongfulness of the nascent Vietnam war.

I bow to your expertise on the spelling front... Can you resend the pdfs directly to me at bob.cummings@rpmail.uk. Looking forward to seeing the photos!

Hi Bob…. was in a nostalgic mood this morning and suddenly thought there might be an old Xavs site… and lo & behold there is! Thanks for getting back to me…. my sister was married to Chris Clarke who sent me the pdfs attached, so please feel free to display them on the site… I also have the full school photograph from 1961… can you remember where you were on that pic? John & myself went to the last ever Xavs Old Boys meeting a few years ago and Brother Cyril was there! As for the spelling of 'shiverklinski', I'm pretty sure I got it right 'cos every time he gave his name to a teacher… he had to spell it out… and it stuck in my brain somewhere…. I have to do the same with P H E L A N … Jim

HI Jim

Your recollections of PE with Mr Newton brings it all back - especially the hanging on the wall bars. I still occasionally rotate my arms in ever decreasing circles. I always thought that if I was ever detained at Her Majesty's pleasure, it would be a perfect method for increasing my arms and upper body strength from the comfort of my cell.

Most of the names are familiar me - I think Jordan played the clarinet and had a bit of a jazz group going. Sweeney Todd I became friendly with after I left Xavs. He once spent a night in my garden shed and possibly in a bus shelter at Blackpool. So pleased (not to say surprised) to discover what an athlete you became - brilliant.

The only thing I might have to disagree with you on is your spelling of the Polish boy who was such a good runner. I always thought his name began with a 'Z'. Any more memories, just email me and I will give you your own post.

Bob Cummings

I well remember Mr Newton... ex army with a bizarre concept of what elements of torture could be incorporated into a PE lesson. The whole of Ward Hall... 90 first year kids... were forced to do army drills, burpees, star jumps and that horrible exercise where arms were fully extended sideways and rotations were made.... until you could make no more. At any point of failure, the 'victim' was then made to hang from the wall bars, making sure that their feet were dangling so all the weight was on hands, wrists and arms. The drills continued until everyone was hanging, or falling from, the wall bars. At this point Newton would parade round the gym with a gym shoe in hand and administer beatings to anyone who was hanging... or used it as encoragement to those who had fallen off the bars.
After a few weeks of this I noticed that a kid called Saunders was sitting on the stage throughout... missing the ordeal. When I asked him why, he showed me his veruka with a patch of purple splashed across it... I knew we had a bottle of Tincture of Iodine at home that my mother had used on my own verukas in the past, so the next week I joined Saunders on the stage. Within a month the plague of verukas had spread... strangely, only to all my close friends John 'Toddy' Sweeney, Carr, Jordan, Flynn, Nipper Brown etc... we all had a purple patch on our feet, until the bottle ran out and we had to think up more creative excuses.
Football was another exercise in how to disinterest your pupils... again, all 90 of the kids in the year group would trail off to the mud bath at Wilbraham Road?... players from Man U would turn up to coach... the best 20 or so players were taken over to the dry pitch for coaching by the likes of Dennis Viollet or Bobby Charlton whilst the remaining 60 or so were divided into two teams, given a sodden casey, and left to their own devices on the 'wet' pitch. Again, it wasn't long before the exodus began and I remember spending most of those sports afternoons having a fag in the billiard hall less that 200m from the school gates.
It's ironic that I did very little PE, athletics, football, cricket or any other sport at Xavs, but in later life became a very active sportsman competing as an agegrouper in World Championships at Duathlon & Triathlon and winning medals at UK Vets championships. I remember hiding in the air raid shelters next to the cricket pavillion having a fag with Toddy during school sports day... we had a kid called Stefan Cwiklinski in our form who was a great runner... but he was soundly beaten in a mile race that day by a six former who broke the school record with 5mins 2secs. I took up running at 28 and eventually ran 4.36 for a mile at 43... so what could I have achieved at 16 had my potential been revealed? Both Toddy and myself later became good marathon runners and I'm still competing in Triathlons today.
This lack of connection between the staff and pupils was evident all across the curriculum... if I get time, I'll expand on how bad the other subject teachers were... my fellow pupils were great and I always enjoyed myself, but as an educational institution I'm afraid Xavs had a lot to answer for... I found that out when I later took up teaching myself.

Thanks Paul - you brought back lots of memories. I had Pug for Latin and I remember, with heavy reference to a good dictionary, we constructed the filthiest dog latin diatribe, including comments about Pug, we could dream up and wrote it on the board before a lesson. We expected Pug to be outraged, but he walked in, carefully read our work and then proceeded to correct the grammar. Not another word was said. I was seriously impressed.

Jock Burns - I remember he would slap a meter rule onto a worktop in the lab to get silence. (Yes I think we were all terrified.) And if asked a question he would inevitably respond with "Maybe perhaps and maybe per-not-haps'.

I remember being given nonsensical choices of lesson subjects at various times. Woodwork or Art. Then Art or Music. Then Music or Chemistry. Chuck Sellars saw me as a musician of some sort - school choir, orchestra, etc and never spoke to me again after I chose Chemistry.

And Mr Curtis - who ran over my dog with his motorbike. Probably not his fault, but I could never enjoy Art after that.

Yes those school lunches - the tapioca was nicknamed 'antigravity' because you could hold the plate upside down and it would never fall off. As soon as feasible, we used to sneak off to the chippy on Wilmslow Road- strictly out of bounds, but they had a warm back dining room and the steak pie with gravy and chips was excellent. On one occasion we had to make off down the alley when a teacher was spotted buying his lunch.

In the Chemistry labs, someone discovered that mixing ammonium with another chemical (I can't remember which) produced a gunge which, when dry would spontaneously explode (in a fairly small way - but small things amuse small minds). At one time we had Chemistry (in the lab) immediately before Geography and would bring the gunge back to our classroom on filter papers and plaster it on the big old cast iron radiators. Of course when the heat was on, it would go off at random times, producing great amusement, but seemingly never disturbing Mr Crotty from his strange reality.
This only encouraged us to greater abuse of his tolerance. While his back was to us as he wrote on the blackboard, desks would be moved around noisily and pupils relocated around the classroom at random. He never seemed to notice. It was always mayhem. I believe a desk may even have been heaved out of a window on one occasion.
The upshot was that when the O level Geography results came in, of 31 pupils in the class, there were 28 grade Fs - less than 20% and the lowest mark possible. The other 3 were all taking resits from the year before and had some vague knowledge of the subject from another teacher.

Why do I remember only the 'bad' things?