My Newton Heath

A Memory of Harpurhey.

We lived in Robert Street from when I was 5 until I was 12. There were a few big families around, I remember the Inland the Kelly's and we all ended up moving to Sale. Our neighbours were Margaret and Harry Waite and they also had 4 children. I went to Hague Street school, the headmaster was Mr Evans. We lived backing on to the Royal Oak pub and my brother Steven was great friends with Danny Early whose parents ran it. We used to walk in the Whit Walks every year and my dearest friend Julie Sharples (we have been friends for 47 years), she lived on Pulling Street as did the chickens who we were friends with. My dad, Ronnie Bailey, worked for Wilson's Brewery and definitely the highlight of our year was going to the Xmas party there. My mum, Rayna, worked in the launderette on Odham Road. Ours was only a little 2 up, 2 down, terraced house but I have fond fond memories of my childhood playing marbles, two balls and skipping in the street.