ANXIOUS to keep in touch with classroom colleagues after a lifetime dispensing the 'three rs', two former well-loved figures at the blackboard decided to do something about it.

For Marjorie Lamb and Mabel Irwin had a brainwave in forming the St Helens and District Retired Teachers Association, with the inaugural meeting being held at 'The Elms', Cowley Hill Lane, in February, 1975.

A committee was formed, the annual subscription was then 50p and the friendly, informal group that has since gone from strength to strength is about to celebrate its silver jubilee.

And Marjorie and Mabel are very much involved in preparations for the anniversary party, which will be held at the Deaf Centre, Dentons Green Lane, on Tuesday, February 8, from 1.45pm. Local singer Ron Crooks will entertain.

The Retired Teachers Association has enjoyed a varied programme these 25 years, including talks by well-known personalities and wholesome entertainment at their monthly meetings, plus many a dinner date.

Current membership is around 50-strong, and a cordial invitation to join is extended to any former teacher who should telephone St Helens 758152 for more information.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.