COULD this have been the last Empire Day pageant to be staged in St Helens? That's the question posed by this charming box-camera snap (above) from the album of Moss Bank reader, Nancy Dowdle.
In those proud days of pomp and ceremony the local schools marked the celebration in great style and these are some of the kiddie principals taking part in their own special display at Windle junior school (now vanished from the Queen Street scene) in 1939, just before the outbreak of the second world war.
Nancy (maiden name, Smith) is second left in the group, representing Australia. Now 70, she still clearly remembers being chosen to sing a song of praise about that far-away country. The only other child she can recall, more than 60 years on, is Edie Stewart. Anyone recognise the rest?
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article