Class of 1942 reunite for first time

The class of 1941/42 at Westloats Lane School have met for the first time as a group since they left their classrooms for good at the age of 14.

Theget-together on Thursday, July 19, attracted 25 out of the 45 or so which formed the wartime class. Of the remainder, 18 have passed away to leave just two or three who could not be contacted.

Organiser Ron Cutler, who flew back from New Zealand for the occasion, said: 'It's a very good turnout and has been a successful reunion, with everybody saying it is a good idea.

'I've got all their names and addresses and we could do the same again in a couple of years time if they want.'

Plenty of topics about school times, work and families ensured the conversation flowed during the three hour session at the Royal British Legion Club in Clifton Road.

Mr Cutler (79) said: 'One or two of the people I recognised even though I have not seen them for 50 years.

'Others, I had no idea who they were but as soon as they said who they were, I instantly remembered them.'

He explained that everyone who went to the school lived in the tight area of Essex Road, Hampshire Avenue, Mons Avenue, Collyer Avenue and Gravits Lane. The Hampshire Avenue recreation ground and the beach were their favourite play areas.

The opening of the Bognor Youth Club, around 1938, also proved popular because it enabled organised games to be held.

One of those at the reunion was Felpham resident Michael Etheridge. The 78-year-old of Outerwyke Road said: 'I remembered most of those here, even though it's going back a bit now.

'It's good to meet up with them again after all these years. It's brought back a lot of memories.'