IT WAS with sadness I received word that Miss Brooks, a former teacher of mine, had passed away.

Although I am 75 years old, memories flooded my mind of Tyldesley Senior Girls school in the late thirties, and the wonderful staff.

Most of us were coal miners' daughters in the days when miners made very low wages, but we took pride in all our endeavours and teachers and students alike treated each other with respect.

I recall when each and every school in Britain was asked to donate to Dr Barnardos home for orphans.

That year Tyldesley Senior Girls school were the highest doners of them all, including as I remember all the private and "posh" schools of the day.

Why? Because of the encouragement of Miss Brooks, Miss Weaver, Miss Middleton, Miss Yates, Miss Gore, Miss Wolstenholme, etc, we were taught to be aware of the joy of giving to those even less fortunate than ourselves.

We came up with many diverse ways of raising funds, including making homemade calendars, baking cupcakes, etc.

Miss Brooks kept in touch with me for many years. I looked forward to her cards and letters and will miss them.

To a great teacher who influenced a lot of girls, I say a final thank you. I know she will have found a deserving place in heaven.

OAN SOUTHERN

nee Hodkinson)

Brantford, Ontario

Formerly of Gin Pit, Astley.