Ponteland, The Diamond Inn And Smithy c.1955

Photo ref: P264023

I started school in 1954 and Mr Parker was the headmaster. I lived in Ashbrook Drive and the houses were brand new. I do remember walking home from school one lunchtime in the snow and arriving home unexpectedly as I was supposed to stay for school dinner. My mum had to feed me and then get my sister and brother(who was a baby) ready,and walk me back to school. We went to see Mr Parker(a very kind man) ...see more

We moved to Ponteland in 1940 from North Shields in a bid to 'escape' the ever increasing air raids on Tyneside. We first lived on the North Road and I attended Coates Endowed School (headmaster, Mr Parker) and later the 'top' school (headmaster, Mr Stokoe), as it was known then before moving on to College. I used to help out at the local Post Office at the weekends assisting the postmaster, ...see more

I attended Coates Endowed School which was a Church of England School. I was confirmed by the Bishop of Newcastle in St Mary's and attended th church for many years. The vicar at the time was the Rev. Porteous and I received my confirmation lessons from him at the vicarage which is near to the Church. At the time the the original Coates Endowed School was sited next to the church an the entrance to the ...see more