Guestbook - Volume 1

From: Richard Morris Email: rmorris@chainconnection.net
Posted on: Friday, May 24, 2002, 08:21 PM

I came across your web site by accident, but was immediately transported back to KEGS Aston. I was there later than you, (born in 1946,) but your thumbnail sketches of some of the masters brought me great pleasure. I was sorry to hear about Fred (Froggy to us) Fenton suffering from mental illness. He had a great influence on me, as did Harry Tyson and Eric Pedley. (I became an engineer because of them.) I can hear Watcyn Thomas speaking now with his Welsh accent, and all of trying to be quiet on Friday afternoon in German so that Ernie Pickering would fall asleep. Thanks for reviving the memories. Richard Morris

From: Peter Sterry Email: pmsterry@hotmail.com
Posted on: Monday, October 07, 2002, 02:11 PM

I was an inmate of KEGSA from 1947 - 1955, and remember with affection most of the staff on your pages. I attended the funeral of the unforgettable Chaz, and I nearly attended 'Lumb's Last Lesson' (I was at Longdon that day). I was also a reserve for the 'Top of the Form' programme, and met the presenter, Richard Dimbleby (Billy Lumb was the scorer!!! No wonder we lost). I also have a number of school photos. Peter.

From: Stuart Jeffs Email: mailto:mail@stuartjeffs.co.uk
Posted on: Wednesday, October 16, 2002, 10:03 PM

Enjoyed reading your "Ramblings". I went to Saltley Grammar between 1973 & 1978 and have very fond memories of your uncle John as PE Master. Probably the teacher who influenced and impressed me both. I too, mourn his passing. Regards Stuart

From: Peter Hicks Email: peterhicks@picknowl.com.au
Posted on: Thursday, October 24, 2002, 02:44 AM

Well done. I went to K.E.G.S from 1947 to 1952 .Lived in Australia since 1955.Went to Adelaide University-Engineering

From: Kevin Harwood Email: <kj_harwood@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Friday, February 07, 2003, 01:53 PM

Hi Jim I have just discovered your site - really fascinating, especially the photos and your views on teaching staff. I was at KEGS Aston 1966-73, and remember Eric Pedley, Harry Tyson, Ernie Pickering, Jack Entwistle etc. I have no photographs from my era, do you know anyone who has scanned versions etc. There are none at Friends Reunited site. Best wishes & thanks. Kevin Harwood.

From: michael reading Email: <reading7hills@bigpond.com>
Posted on: Thursday, July 10, 2003, 01:22 PM

Jim, I can't tell you at the moment how much i enjoyed your website. So many things bring back memories. i was at aston from 1951-1956. I live in Australia, on the Gold Coast, having come to Australia in 1964 with my wife (landing with 70 pounds). It was great to see the photos of the teachers, it appears we shared nearly all of them. I was also at longdon for 2 terms in 1954, I also went to germany on exchange visit with "ernie" entwhistle. I can remember in 1 beta when he slippered the whole class! By the way I was one of the 3 little maids!! I was Pity Sing, and Howard Wearing was the other one(forgot the name) and les Woodhall was Yum yum. I have managed to get in touch with several of the guys thru friends reunited , including Les, Howard, Martin Leigh, Frank wolston croft, Bill cooper. no doubt

From: Neil Spink Email: <neil.spink@heartsol.wmids.nhs.uk>
Posted on: Monday, July 28, 2003, 08:00 AM

Good morning Jim!Well, this is a surprise. Andy my son was searching and picked up two hits with my name on. Yours, which os very welcome and one at Hints Church near Tamworth where I was boked ot preach one Sunday. (Believe it or not, I am a Christian and a lay reader in C of E!. Who says that God does not have a sense of humour!. You will see from my e-mail address that I still work and am at Heartlands hospital, not far form our old stamping grounds. It is great working through your file, seeing the faces I knew, remembering the times together at Hodge Hill and Storridge etc. Anne and I still live in Fazeley, where we moved after our marriage in 1965. We have Andrew, a confirmed batchelor who lives close by in Kingsbury, and Paula who lives in York with Simon her husband and two grandchildren Nat

From: Malcolm Peers Email: <mpeers@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, August 04, 2003, 09:45 AM

Hi Jim Perkins What a lovely suprise to stumble across your web site. Your incoherent ramblings have bought back a real sense of 'all is not lost in time'. I hope we can meet up some time along with anu others. I still live in Solihull, and only a week or so ago I passed by your old house by the Fox and Goose and told my wife that I wondered what you and Tim were doing these days. I hope we can keep in touch. I am going to the Gas Turbine re-union in September so I hope to see Ron Woodward and some others there. I look forward to hearing from you. best regards Malcolm

From: Lynda Stretton Email: <ls@fashionz.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, August 19, 2003, 11:43 PM

I can see that you have put a lot of work into your website. How wonderfull to have so many pictures of your ancestors, and living relatives, all over the world!

From: Stuart John Email: <stuartjohn2@aol.com>
Posted on: Monday, September 01, 2003, 05:50 PM

I attended Aston from 1955-'58.R.A.F.child stationed at Castle Bromwich.Undistinguished student but,later,enjoyed a career teaching P.E.

From: Bob Gough Email: <robert.w.gough@btopenworld.com>
Posted on: Sunday, September 07, 2003, 06:05 PM

Hi Dr Jim Long time Was speaking to Malcolm Peers today and your name cropped up - said he had noted you had a webb site - and that I should have a look. Havn't seen that picture for many a year.

From: GEOFF SARA ( AOE) Email: <gsara@eggconnect.net>
Posted on: Friday, September 12, 2003, 09:37 PM

Jim Gongrats on your super site and for the KEGSA photos that led me to you. Would love to know what happened to everyone . What a shame that most of us lost touch.

From: Ali Wearing Email: <ali_wearing@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Thursday, October 09, 2003, 01:39 PM

I regularly search for my Dad's name (Clive Wearing) and your site came up. He's permanently in 24-hour care due to a brain injury that happened about 18 years ago. Howard and Geoff, his two brothers, are both alive and well in New Zealand. Thanks for giving me some insight into his school life. If you have a pic of him in anything could you possibly send it/them to me? Love and hugs from a daughter who misses her real Dad.

From: David A Davies Email:
Posted on: Wednesday, October 29, 2003, 03:22 AM

Been in Canada for 35 years!

From: MARTIN STUDHOLME Email: <YOU HAVE THIS>
Posted on: Wednesday, November 12, 2003, 11:56 AM

Jim, Couldn't leave this until next year. If we'd have spoken more on Saturday we may have got round to reminiscing about Longdon Hall. I attended during the Autumn Term in 1975 and as such was in the last class that went.

From: David Jephcott Email: <david@djephcott.freeserve.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, November 14, 2003, 07:32 PM

Well done Jim, or 'Perky as I remember you I left the 126 sometime in 1960, and now live in Willenhall up in the black country Do you have contact with any others of my era, Norman Howe, Roy England etc?

From: Tom Pittaway Email: <pittaway@nbnet.nb.ca>
Posted on: Saturday, January 10, 2004, 06:33 AM

Hi Jim:You have a fabulous web site site. I've read it front to back a couple of times now and almost feel like part of the family. Will drop you an e-mail in the next week or so to bring you up to date on my last forty or so years! Best wishes for 2004.Tom P.

From: Dionne, nessie and Aleesha Email: <DD_Young@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Thursday, January 15, 2004, 12:20 PM

wow! we loved all your ladder photographs and we thought the wedding photo from 1904 was great thanks for the entertainment. by the way were in year 11 at king edward vi girls we have alot in common.

From: samir rauf Email: <samir_rauf@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, February 17, 2004, 02:03 PM

i was searching for my old history teacher colin parker and up came ur site and i was amazed to learn that mr parker will be taking over as headmaster this year???!! i am very happy for him and i want him to know that since his teaching days at aston i have achieved a first in history (and econ) from uni of london and am working as head off history and econ and bieng a keen sportsman head of PE at a technical college in the UAE....i wish him all the best and i do owe most of this success to him. would appreciate it if he could read this. thanx. samir, (aston, 1990-1996)

From: Dr James J Raynham-Gallivan Email: <jimgallivan@o2.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, February 20, 2004, 11:22 PM

Jim Gallivan, Ia then kept down! No mention of a Mr Johns(?), taught French and a fellow Welshman

From: roger smith Email: <cllr.roger.smith@staffordshire.gov.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, March 02, 2004, 10:40 PM

A.O.E. 1952-57 Thanks for the memories. What about Milner, geography: Gobles,geog.:Taffy Davies. Longdon Hall.....

From: Jacqueline Ansermoz Email: <jackieatozsnr@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, March 17, 2004, 03:57 PM

Hello there, I have not quite read all your information but what I have read I have thoroughly enjoyed. I will continue when I have some more spare time, and look forward to doing so. We are moving back into Castle Bromwich after being away from the Midlands for four years. Neville Road to be exact. How the area has changed! It would be nice to think that the old community feeling could be restored. Rest assured we will endeavour to do so when we arrive there in late April. We have been living in Alnwick, Northumberland which is such a lovely place but alas, our children feel that it is time to return to our roots, so to speak. Your Scout section is very interesting to me because most of my Adult life was spent within the association. In fact with 184th. 1st. Yorkswood based just inside the gates. I was award

From: Alan Loader (1976-83) Email: <alanloader@tesco.net>
Posted on: Friday, April 16, 2004, 10:38 AM

Hi, I believe the tune for the School Song was written by Alfred Robert Gaul (1837-1913), composer of several justly neglected masterpieces like the cantatas Ruth, The Holy City, and Joan of Arc - all immensely popular in the 19th century. Although he was born in Norwich, Gaul lived in Birmingham for most of his life, and he apparently taught Albert Ketelby (another Brummie)- of In A Monastery Garden and In A Persian Market fame. So now you know!

From: nathan kimberley Email: <nathbrum@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Sunday, May 09, 2004, 05:50 PM

was looking for information on my home the rectory,thanks nathan

From: Noel Stephens Email: <noel@aberlink.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, May 18, 2004, 03:55 PM

You probably don't remember me, I was actually searching Colin House who was my predecessor research assistant to Prof Rogers, you probably remember him as Dr.G.L. Rogers (Gordon), Noel.

From: Dr. Bill Spargo Email: <billspargo@erols.com>
Posted on: Monday, July 05, 2004, 12:51 AM

My great grandfather is John Cornish Spargo. My grandfather is James A Spargo (died 1948). He was Richard's brother. My father is William Jay Spargo (died 1963). I have a number of letters from John Cornish to his son James A and Aunt Jane.

From: Selby Betts Email: <selbybetts@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, July 21, 2004, 01:01 PM

I have enjoyed a trip down memory lane looking at your website with regard to your time at KEGS Aston.I was alerted to your website by a fellow Probus Member seeing my name on Knowle Warwickshire website! I can give you information about some Aston old boys. By chance I met Graham Dyer in Marks & Spencer in Sutton Coldfield last year after a gap of 40 years.He lives in Stubbington,Farnham Hants.He worked in the Probation Service firstly in Solihull but latterly in Hampshire. He is still in contact with Hugh LLoyd who lives in Eastbourne and I think he works for Mori although he qualified as a solicitor.David J Davies became Dai Davies and has been a Golf Writer of some fame working for a number of Golf Magazines and I think some National Newspapers.I have a copy of a photograph of Longdon Hall Summer Term

From: Alan Train Email: <alan.train@courtauld.ac.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, August 26, 2004, 05:08 PM

Wonderful to read your recollections of the school and see the old photographs. I was at Aston 1964-1971 but alas am not in contact with anyone from those days. best wishes

From: Doug Gent Email: <http://www3.telus.net/Doug_Gent/emailpage.html>
Posted on: Saturday, September 25, 2004, 09:12 PM

Much to my surprise, I located my Great Uncle's picture on your Web Page. Sir Ernest Canning (1876-1966)obviously attended your school. Any exact dates, or other info, would be appreciated. Living in Canada I was always facinated by this man's history.

From: Sally Fletcher Email: <sally.fletcher@jerseymail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, November 08, 2004, 11:24 PM

Great to see a picture of my Grandfather Leonard Brandon, and to hear about Gran in her WRVS uniform. I was allowed to walk up the main staircase!!

From: anjumaini Email: <anjumaini2003@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Monday, December 06, 2004, 09:50 PM

hi jim i found your website very interesting,hope to see you soon. anju

From: Mike Neale Email: <county.logos@virgin.net>
Posted on: Wednesday, December 08, 2004, 10:44 PM

Like the site . Good memories of Brum and some remembered names.Thanks.

From: Malcolm Perrott Email: <malcolmperrott@talk21.com>
Posted on: Thursday, December 16, 2004, 10:51 AM

I went to Aston 46/53 and currently live in Sutton Coldfield. I,ve only just become aware of your website and have briefly scanned through it. I would like to congratulate you on the cotent and presentation and I intend to spend more time looking through it when time permits. Well done again!! Kind regards and a Merry Christmas. Malcolm.

From: anthony wilde Email: <adswilde@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Sunday, December 19, 2004, 08:04 PM

I was very interested in you writing about Longdon. Was there in the third year at Aston.In joined the school in 1962 so it must have been in 1964 (in fact it was because we stayed up to listen to Harold Wilson winning the election that Autumn). I have fond memories of the place. I went back to visit when it was a special school. I am now headteacher of a large comprehensive in London, a very different place to Aston.

From: john pierce Email: <greymer @aol.com>
Posted on: Thursday, December 30, 2004, 06:19 PM

yes the photograph of Beechcroft farm was Webbs Farm, my grandfather Tom Webb moved there in 1902 and I as a child I lived in the farm house after my grandmother died in 1936. in the waqr we had over 100he bombs on our land and 100s of incendary bombs one of which came into our bedroom and my father through it out of the window onto the lawn. we also had some land inside the cow shed and the cattle were burnt untill my uncles were able to release them most of our neihbours spent the airraids with us down in the cellar that the rawlins filled in we also supplied people with water from the well when bombs stopped the supply. My grand father had the 3rd car in Castle Bromwich 1st Lady Bradford 2nd Col. Demuth who lived oposite the church

From: Phil Knight Email: <pique@compuserve.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, January 12, 2005, 09:46 PM

Great to see the old photos of KEGS I'd have loved more of Longdon, where I was for a term in 1965. A lot of the staff you knew were still there. Stanley Calvert, Derek Hobson, Len, Harry Tyson, Froggy Fenton etc I did my stint at KEGS 1964/69. I managed to get quite a few photos, all unofficial, during 1967/8 including one of Len and some during lessons! My main hobby there was the amdram. We had real girls in the late sixties shared between Rose Hill Rd and Erdington grammars. I also have a recording (again clandestine) of the complete 1968 speech day with voices of many of the staff including Len and of course the school song!! I never found Len aloof quite the opposite, we shared a common interest in music and Hi-Fi which has given me an interesting if uncertain career.

From: Malcolm Walton Email: <mw@malcolmwalton.biz>
Posted on: Thursday, January 13, 2005, 06:02 PM

KEGS '49 to 57 Head Boy '56. Now live in Italy. Is Harry Tyson still alive?

From: John Davis Email: <johnbach.davis@btinternet.com>
Posted on: Saturday, January 15, 2005, 07:46 PM

Lovely pictures - I envy you your travels to beautiful and unusual locations! Please keep adding to them. But why is there no picture of Castle Bromwuch church?

From: John Thierry Email: <jathierry@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Friday, January 21, 2005, 04:10 AM

I have really enjoyed "wading" through your website, especially the pages on KEGS Aston. I was at Aston from 1962 to 1968, and it was our first year that had the unqiue privilege watching the New Building rise from the ashes of the olf terrcaed houses. I remember many of the teacher names, and met up with some of them in later life. Being Birmingham born and bred myself and having spent most of my life until last year living less than two miles from where I was born, I understand many of the sentiments you express. I took early retirement in 2002 after 30 years of running a 4th generation family business. Within 3 months I was bored rigid, so I now work for the DWP in the Pension Service. Thanks again for the website. Its been a real delight. In fact I might even think of doing one of my own!

From: Charles Gough Email: <charlesgough.gemini@ virgin.net>
Posted on: Friday, January 21, 2005, 07:34 PM

I moved to Timberley lane in 1956 Shard End with my perants, Whatley green was known as conker island look at the trees. the house in the distance used to have a moat at the front with fish in it. It was a regular walk when we were kids to go to the playing fields at the back fo Arden hall as I knew it, then on to blue bell woods to play then a round trip via pimple hill back home. Unfortunately there is a motorway there now. Any way well done it does bring back some memories. Kind regards Charles Gough PS I live in North Somerset now

From: Jane Jordan
Posted on: Monday, January 24, 2005, 03:09 PM

AB Row, stands for Aston and Birmingham border, there were also houses down there at some point

From: Martin Bennett Email: <jamesyoungs1@bigpond.com>
Posted on: Monday, January 31, 2005, 11:54 PM

I could not get the photo of Sir Ivan Stedeford to load. I would like it for an article I am writing on my 1956 Bentley which was ordered and purchased new by Tubes Ltd for the Chairman, Sir Ivan. Can you assist with this?

From: Kathleen Dover Email: <sotsid@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, February 02, 2005, 09:53 PM

used to work at EITB in Cowgate Newcastle - is it still there - emmigrated many years ago and have lost touch

From: John Patrick Email: <john.patrick@sjpp.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, February 07, 2005, 11:19 AM

Found your website whilst looking for EITB contact details. In shock to find that the government have closed it down! Do you have any idea where I can research their records of students from the 1970's? Thanks.

From: Denise Email: <dalm1@bol.com.br>
Posted on: Sunday, February 13, 2005, 07:26 PM

It´s difficult to say to you what I liked more in your site. Some of your pictures are real poetic, speciall the ones about Birmingham and Castle Bromwich. I could feel love in each of them, even when you wrote your disappointment about some abandoning houses and places, and some infelicitous counsil´s projects for old important places; or when you use your elegant sweet-and-sour sense of humour to describe the big town and it´s places like shopping centers. Even in these pictures there were a lot of love on them. Another thing I had admired a lot in your site is how you open all your life and share it in details with unknown people. I have always heard that English people are so reserved but it seems not to apply to you, at least not on the internet world. But all people are used to be known only for the exo

From: Louise North Email: <louise_north@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, February 15, 2005, 01:18 PM

Found your pages on Castle Bromwich really interesting. As someone who was brought up in Castle Brom for 18 yrs and returned to the area 2 years ago it was nice to see a bit of the history!

From: Tom Smith Email: <as012e1859@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Saturday, February 19, 2005, 04:21 PM

I was at Aston KEGSfrom 1928/1932 and there are very few of my contempories still around

From: A.T.Smith Email: <as012e1859@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Saturday, February 19, 2005, 09:41 PM

I would like to add to my previous terse statement giving my years at Aston KEGS 1928/1932.In those days we still had coal fires in the classrooms and Chas used to make them upwhen required.Yhe Head was Joey Manton and masters included Buggy Mayers,Twisty Bill the Art master(who was an R.A.Billy Lumb and Beaky Ross who hated free place boys.Other staff were Mr.Tye,(Geography)Billy Chivers,who ran the Meccano Club and Mr Davidsonnot forgetting Mt Higgs,(Maths)and Frank & Oliver Jones,Frank Jones was a stickler for correct dress,Grammar and Pronunciation.KEGS opened many doors for me and after Further Education in Business and Commerce routine,I eventually became Managing Director of Halladays Drop forging and Presswork where I worked until retiremant.I have had the opportunity to trave all over the world my la

From: Keith Spicer Email: <prodnet@mweb.co.za>
Posted on: Tuesday, February 22, 2005, 06:59 PM

I remember so much of this, Tyson, Cooke, Brandon, etc 1958-1964

From: Philip Bellshaw Email: <philipbellshaw@aol.com>
Posted on: Thursday, March 03, 2005, 06:03 PM

Just to say enjoyed your website, which I've stumbled across by accident, looking with my son Henry for King Edwards Aston stuff as he's just been offered a place there!

From: Colin Wright Email: <Colincqw@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Saturday, March 05, 2005, 09:36 PM

Searched on Water Orton. Found (also) Scouts. I was a Scout Leader in WO for a time (Eighties/Nineties). Your pictures and text made good reading. These were the golden days of the movement. You obviously had a memorable time

From: John Stafford Email: <johnforegate@totalise.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, March 08, 2005, 11:20 PM

Thank you for your site, which I got to by googling for "Saltley hairdresser". My father and grandfather were Saltley hairdressers too, at 216 Alum Rock Road - 6 assistants - no waiting was its slogan in its heydey 1962, before the Beatles and Rolling Stones put an end to short haircuts. Also, I was at Aston too, starting in 1958 when you left, and staying till 1965. I remember most of the teachers you mention. Stan Calvert was a favourite of mine, finding me my first job, at Ward End Library. Also, Gordon Doble, Harry Tyson and Bill King at Longdon Hall were marvellous. I'm fascinated with history, though I actually failed the a-level, but I was very inspired by Jo Bettey and J C Tyson. Haven't been to any reunions, although I had a look round the outside of the buildings once. Thanks again.

From: Barrie Sprawson Email: <bsprawson@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, March 23, 2005, 07:41 PM

Jim:What a great Web Site!You are to be truly congratulated.I now live a few miles from Lew Ford in Oakville, Ont. Canada. Just retired from 40 year career in management consulting(change management)and now help my wife Gill run a B&B( try; Walnut HouseBandB.com) as well as running two other home based businesses.We now have 5 children,three daughters in law and eleven grand children.Lew and I got together for lunch a few weeks ago but it was a cousin of mine who told me of your Web site. Thanks again for bringing back several memories. Barrie(905-844-7687)

From: Terry Carter Email: <birminghampal@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, March 29, 2005, 08:09 PM

I was surfing the web looking for info regarding Royal Warwickshire Regiment. I came accross Captain Phillips VC of the 9th Warwicks on your website which concerned him being an Old Boy of King Edwards Aston. (I once had a tour of the school from one of the Goveners during my research into the Birmingham Pals) Anyway, whilst at you site i stayed and spent a good hour looking at your life and hobbies. Very interesting. Regards Terry (Castle Bromwich)

From: jemma Email: <kelliozzi@aol.com>
Posted on: Sunday, April 10, 2005, 07:29 PM

love the picyures, i needed some insperation on modern culture. looking far and wide i lost hope till i came across my nearest city and found all the culture i needed. the pictures really display modern designs. love them.

From: grant queen Email: <grantqueen_50@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Monday, April 11, 2005, 03:04 PM

les woodhall i hope to god thats not your real face haha.

From: jobhan
Posted on: Wednesday, April 20, 2005, 07:15 PM

hello i do not like the wheel it is to slow!

From: Nigel Hester Email: <littbeam@Doctors.org.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, April 27, 2005, 03:58 PM

What a great site, and so many memories. Your pen portraits of the masters were gratifyingly honest, even if strictly personal (I remember Jimmy Edwards getting the worse for wear after spending too long on the bar on the ferry to France for the school trip to Paris in 1954 - he was human). Francis Mace i remember very well - some of us went to his house to have piano lessons - he was a great music teacher, but gave up teaching to enter the ministry. I was Les Woodhall's understudy for when he played Mabel in the Pirates. Like Les I started off in 1 Beta with Jack Coventon as form master, who always seemed to have his head in the clouds. Thanks for an entertaining half hour - I'll go and dig the garden again now!

From: michaela
Posted on: Thursday, April 28, 2005, 11:48 AM

i live in castle bromwich and i think it's a lovely place to live i also think lady bradfords hall should be restored back to normal instead od offices in there so the communitee can see what a beautiful building it is inside

From: Peter Cross Email: <casachrista@tiscali.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, April 29, 2005, 08:34 PM

John Perfect phoned me out of the blue. He's suggesting a reunion at Longdon Hall! and asked me to contact you. my phone 0121 682 2344.

From: Peter Cross Email: <casachrista@tiscali.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, April 29, 2005, 09:07 PM

Didn't realise you can write more in this little square! I'm good friends with Doug Morall and Dave Sinclair who will also come to Longdon Also Lew Ford, whom I stayed with in Niagara on the Lake, with my daughter Sophie, a couple of years ago. Sophie's at Oxford doing Modern Languages, and we have travelled Europe and world a lot since I retired, exhausted from a headship in 1991. I have a villa in Spain where tired old KEGS could meet up! My dad, George, and son Julian are talking about going back to Aston together as we all went there!

From: david john shakespeare Email: <david_shakespeare_1@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Sunday, May 22, 2005, 10:28 AM

Here's another one, aged 59, but I have no intention of coming over to Canada..... maybe....

From: jenny Email: <not2no@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, May 31, 2005, 07:09 PM

weird

From: Louise Perkins Email: <weezie450@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, June 07, 2005, 03:03 AM

Greetings from Canada. I was referred to your site by someone I met online. We our both researching the Perkins' family in Warwickshire & Leicestershire areas and think we are connected. Liked your photos of the "Gardens of Claybrook" as that is where my father was born in 1904. He came to Canada in 1913. The church is where his parents John Thomas Perkins and Sarah Jane Sleath were married in 1901.

From: Jim Hullah Email: <mormor@tesco.net>
Posted on: Wednesday, June 15, 2005, 12:56 PM

Thanks for your letter of 31st March 2004!about Reg. Milnes and ITB Pensioners` Association. Yes I am the same Jim Hullah who played rugby for KEGS Aston a long time ago but I`ve just given up! Cheers, Jim Hullah.

From: melville e green Email: <none>
Posted on: Friday, June 17, 2005, 03:00 PM

kegs aston 1937 1941 congratulations so many memories reawakened.i am only partly mobile 2 3 miles.new to searching the web

From: Peter Clay Email: <peter_clay@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, June 29, 2005, 09:16 PM

I was class of 1951. Mr Luckman form tutor. Iwas no academic but could play the piano well. I am the third little Japanese girl from the left front row in the Mikado picture. Mike Reading [also a good pianist] may remember me as we went to college in Birmingham later and I think we were also at Longdon together. Incidently I feel that the boy identified as David Kimber was in fact Keith Ashbourn Kimber having been sent home for some misdemeanour or other.

From: Dr Kim Hock SNG Email: <timsng@gmail.com>
Posted on: Thursday, June 30, 2005, 02:10 AM

I am looking for John Cheatle, whom I met in Birmingham in 1981 during a Church activity. He used to stay at 27, Carisbrooke Rd tel 021 420 4601. The photo of JC with David Dodd looks like the J Cheatle I know. Please ask him to contact me or phone +60123058981 TQ

From: Floyd Thomas Email: <losteagle275@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Thursday, July 07, 2005, 05:24 PM

My father in law was in England during WWII and his family came over to the U S from England. He often speaks of a castle he saw and thought it was called castle bromwich . please email if you have any suggestions on what he may have seen

From: sam Email: <eggy_123@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, July 18, 2005, 11:42 AM

the site is great i like it its a shame about the statu geting burnt down

From: Ray Fellows Email: <rayfellows @dodo.com.au>
Posted on: Saturday, August 06, 2005, 08:44 AM

If my memory is correct I was a year behind you at K.E.G.S leaving in 1958. Your memories of Aston have bought many grey cells back into use especially in regard to the names of masters. Through F.R. I am in contact with some of my year but the names of masters with the exception of Eric Pedley have been a blur. You contempories or you yourself may remember me by the nickname that I carried through school. Scrooge.

From: Derek Towers neighbour Email: <diane_c53@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, August 15, 2005, 12:43 PM

Derek is my neighbour(still in Hodgehill Road)I came upon your site looking for scout pack in Bordesley for a young A.D.H.D lad. I am a local Guider.

From: Mike Neale Email: <county.logos@virgin.net>
Posted on: Friday, September 16, 2005, 08:33 PM

Ref an e-mail to Jim recently about cycle speedway. Does anyone remember cycle speedway (bicycle) that took place just after WW2 in the midlands? Particularly the track and events on the land opposite the end of Brockhurst Road, Ward End. I have memories of great enthusiasm for this with two or three coach loads of supporters visiting at one time. Any memories and any other tracks?

From: Cousin Roy
Posted on: Sunday, September 25, 2005, 07:17 PM

I am ashamed to say that I haven't visited your website for some time, before today. I have spent more than an hour going through new stuff and re-visiting old stuff, and I can only say that it is absoluely brilliant! It is without doubt the most comprehensive family related website that I have ever seen, it is so user friendly and it is full of wonderful interesting material. But, of course, I'm biased! Keep up the good work, Jim. Best Wishes, Roy.

From: richard margetts Email: <r.margetts@clear.net.nz>
Posted on: Monday, September 26, 2005, 01:03 PM

hello Jim , I just thought i should thank you for letting me see the area i grew up in . I moved frm castle brom when i was 13 i was born in marston green hos , and lived at that time in lyndon close . The next house was 39 chester rd , We left there in about 85 then moved to australia but i still think a lot about my time in castle brom i know live in new zealand . also may i ask a huge favour could you please take a photo of 39 chester rd whould apreciate it heaps

From: Keith Inman Email: <ikeithchris@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, October 05, 2005, 03:53 PM

Well done very good sight, having grown up in Shard End in the 50/60s but have great memories about Castle Brom. But have lived in the Potteries since 71 it was nice to see the pictures, and although I still have family in the area I never get to visit the area properly. The Pimple hill was a favourit loaction for playing.

From: Robert S. Spargo
Posted on: Thursday, October 06, 2005, 08:45 PM

my address is 1115 Montainside Lane, N.C. 27041. I am the 2X granson of John Cornish Spargo. I was born in Rome, N.Y. in 1957, and worked at Spargo Ware Co. for a short time. My father Robert S. Spargo born in Rome in 1930 worked there all of his life. I have a book with some info about James A. Spargo and a booklet about Spargo Wire's founding. My home phone is 336-351-5477

From: amanda Email: <clclaman@aol.com>
Posted on: Thursday, October 13, 2005, 05:33 PM

Dear Jim thankyou for an eye opener into the early working world of my husband can you possibly help us to reteive his EITB certificate if anyone can help us with an address you can god bless all the luck for the future many thanks amanda colclough

From: David Prudence Email: <theangles@smartemail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, October 17, 2005, 11:28 AM

Interesting site! There should be more of this type of thing on the net. Your site did though prompt a question which you may be able to help with. In my garden here in Oxfordshire I keep digging up empty tins of Hedges L260 snuff and wonder how long they have been there. Do you know when they stopped making it? Saturday's specimen was about 6 inches into the topsoil!

From: Rob Spargo Email: <rob.spargo@alltel.com>
Posted on: Monday, October 17, 2005, 05:16 PM

Googled the name since it is rare. Came for a visit to your site. Amazed by the photos!

From: John Haines Email: <johnhaines@arrowfinance.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, October 18, 2005, 04:31 PM

Hi Jim, Mike Davison told me a few minutes ago that you and others are meeting at the Digby in Water Orton. I have already "cleared the diary" and look forward to meeting you again for what must be the first time in at least 45 years. JOHN HAINES

From: hamdi Email: <lou4ha@gmail.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, October 19, 2005, 09:41 AM

hi friends hi how are you how is going your life where are you now?? holiday or home i hope you happy all time byeeee speak soon xxxxxxxxxx hamdi

From: David Michael Coldicott Email: <david.m.coldicott@talk21.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, October 26, 2005, 06:54 PM

My mother was a Perkins from Bretforton in Worcestershire. I have lots of Perkins from that area. Good hunting

From: David Barnett Email: <david.barnett@pobox.com>
Posted on: Saturday, October 29, 2005, 08:34 AM

I enjoyed your contribution to my fond memories of Aston. I was there from 1949 to 1957. In touch with a small group of my contemporaries and we meet each year. Looking for schoolgroup photo for 1949. Can you help.

From: Robert A Cotterill Email: <bob.cotterill5@btinternet.com>
Posted on: Monday, October 31, 2005, 10:09 PM

great pics of Castle Bromwich. My mother still lives in the area I lived in School lane. Not a member of the scouts but the Boys Brigade who met at the methodist church and also at Brownmead School.

From: Ezziej BROMWICH Email: <ezziej@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, November 09, 2005, 06:22 PM

Studing the BROMWICH genealogy of course has taken me to this site and I am quite impressed. It brings me closer to life in England. Thank you!

From: Tony Brookes Email: <ADB@mdog.worldonline.co.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, November 17, 2005, 12:09 PM

Could anyone who was there forget the winter of '63 at Longdon? Ice breaking the water troughs & huge fires in the stoves.

From: Harvey Jones Email: <jones_harvey@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Monday, November 21, 2005, 10:38 AM

Still remember JP leading the campfire singing, in the hollow in the middle of Yorks Woods

From: Geoff Hines Email: <Geoffrey_Hines@MSN.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, November 22, 2005, 12:28 PM

Thanks for bringing back so many memories. KEGS was (still is hopefully) a great school. Wish I'd appreciated it when I was there (69-74)

From: Michael Worrall Email: <awpm@lycos.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, November 23, 2005, 08:36 PM

I arrive hear with four clicks I will look at to pages . I am a 40's model Aston 1952-57: Mordike, Whitehouse for England Taffy Thomas mmad welsh teacher/ Welsh hero The Littlejohns were famous for all the wrong reasons. Have you a chat platform would like to contact contempories. Enjoyed the history still have Mags and photos of Longdon happy Days Mike

From: Julia Kane Email: <juli.hodgin@keaston.bham.sch.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, November 24, 2005, 10:13 AM

I cam across your website whilst looking at a site for the Frankfurt market in B'ham. I teach German at Aston and what is even more of a coinsidence is that I spotted Lewis Ford on a photo! He is my Godmother Jean's husband!

From: HARRY GROVE Email: <musicman@cottagemusic.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, December 05, 2005, 01:03 AM

Nice to read about another ex-KEG - 1960-68; particularly the Longdon bit. I caught sight of the school in Hislop's recent TV series on WW1 vets. So much had changed ... and yet so little. Best wishes.

From: Stephen Mulhall Email: <sjmulhall2000@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, December 06, 2005, 11:57 AM

Interesting site! As an AOE myself (1980-87) it's always a pleasure to be reminded of some of the names from my days at KEGS Aston. I'm now a teacher myself and hope one day to be as good as the likes of Harry Jessop and Vince Darby. I was sorry to read about the death of Dennis Hawley - he retired to Scotland during my time at the school. Do you know what happened to him in the intervening years?

From: adrian and sandra Email: <akredfearn@yahoo.co.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, December 08, 2005, 04:52 PM

We are from your Lycian hol. Very good photos. Any family connection with William Shakespeare?

From: Peter Clay Email: <PeterClay@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Saturday, December 10, 2005, 11:43 PM

Thoroughly enjoyed the re-union dinner recommend to anyone wondering whether to go or not. I take back what I said about a photograph not being David Kimber- I see from later picture sent from Mike Reading that I was quite wrong

From: Philip Lines Email: <petercrouch16@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, December 13, 2005, 10:35 PM

Hello Jim. I stumbled across your website in the search for an official site of King Edward's Aston- I myself am an AOE, along with my grandfather! I had a look at the names database and was pleasantly surprised to find my grandfather and myself, along with some of my contemporaries! I have not long graduated from the school but felt nostalgic to see some of the pictures and the proud history that they portray. I also admire your photographs, keep up the good work! All the best, Jim. Philip James E. Lines

From: Peter Walker Email: <barterwalker@aol.com>
Posted on: Friday, December 23, 2005, 01:48 AM

Just googled across your very interesting site on KEGSA. It seems I left the year you started, as I was there from 1944 until 1950. Most of the teachers' names are familiar to me of course, although I suspect I wouldn't remember new teachers in my last year or so at the school. But there was a new music teacher, Mr Mace, I believe. It is now well past my bedtime, and I will come back to you site soon.

From: Ian McDonnell Email: <caledonian.business@lineone.net>
Posted on: Sunday, January 01, 2006, 02:49 PM

Jim - Really enjoyed the KEGS section of your site - it brought back a lot of memories, although I was there a little later than you (1959-66). One thing I can perhaps help with (other than the photo of LGB in the Head's Chair, which I took and subsequently put on the Friends Reunited website): the choir picture at Longdon Church can be dated accurately as summer 1961, not 1964. Kind regards, Ian

From: Les Churchyard Email: <leschurchyard@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, January 04, 2006, 04:15 PM

Dear Jim, Roy Billingham advised me that you have created an AOE web-site which I have just gone into and Iam already fascinated beyond belief with the history and details of many of our former teachers, I have Jim only scratched the surface of the history you have researched so thouroughly, I couldn"t wait to mail you to say a big "thank you" before I have finished "the book". I had to laugh at one of the references you made about "Fergi Tye" I agree, he was a bad Maths teacher, good though at times if we had a double period of maths on a Wednesday afternoon, he would let us off the the second period so that we could go across the road to Villa Park to see the Villa or any other famous teams play, only because he himself wanted to go!! I am still not sure to this day whether Watcyn Thomas ever knew about this.

From: Les Churchyard Email: <leschurchyard@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, January 04, 2006, 04:27 PM

Dear Jim, I omitted to give the dates of my time at KEGS Aston -1947/1950. Very best wishes. Les

From: Jim Campbell Email: <divarts@fsmail.net>
Posted on: Saturday, January 21, 2006, 12:54 PM

I'm trying to get in contact with Frank Ford who ran the Scout Group in Maryhill is this the same Frank who went on to work for the BBC and STV as a cameraman? if not where do I start looking within the Scouting Movement. Thanks Jim

From: Derek Fisher Email: <derek.fisher@brunel.ac.uk>
Posted on: Monday, January 30, 2006, 08:36 AM

Great site. The photo of the trip to North Wales has a query Brian Peppper. I can confirm it is Bas Pepper. Also the photo must have been taken by Stan Calvert; there were three masters with us and only two appear on the photo. I also have an email address pobble.fisher@aol.com

From: Katie Email: <katoy49@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, February 01, 2006, 12:50 PM

my grandfather his name is a nicklin, he has passed away and im trying to see pictures of his family i was hoping you could help me. if so could you please e-mail me. thank you

From: george tustin Email: <george_tustin@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Saturday, February 04, 2006, 06:31 PM

interesting

From: Steve Fisher Email: <steve.fisher25@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, February 15, 2006, 07:17 PM

I am tracing my ancesters from the west country, they are Spargo and come north to Yorkshire in the late 1800

From: charlotte perkins jones Email: <charlottjones@comcast>
Posted on: Monday, March 13, 2006, 08:43 PM

mhy firstgeneration isfrom hillmorton,warwickshire,england.descendants of thomas parkyns,his parrnts pierre de morlais and agnes taylor

From: MIKE BREWER Email: <michael.brewer4@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Saturday, March 18, 2006, 09:24 PM

By hook or by crook I'll be here before the 10,207th in your book. Enjoyed the tour of your life and times very much, Jim. Found much in common, obviously, including G & S. Differences: having to cope with National Service (I signed on!), going to a co-ed grammar school (some good memories there) and coping with the offspring whom you never seem to get separated from even though my 3 are at present in Sri Lanka, Vancouver and Zambia. Kindest regards to yourself and please pass on my regards to fellow ex-EITBites that you see.

From: mano Email: <isma_mano143@yahoo.co.uk>
Posted on: Saturday, March 18, 2006, 10:34 PM

well done keep it up nice pics mate

From: Allan Clarke Email: <allan.clarke@UNRWA.org>
Posted on: Sunday, March 19, 2006, 12:27 PM

Hello Jim, I am another EITB survivor. Sector D based in Sheffield. Interesting days. Remember me to Alan Giles. Other buddies were Jim Bowles, Alan Hobson, Ray Gabbitas. I am now in Amman, Jordan working for the UN, heading up the training division for UNRWA. Good to see the old pub sprit still exits within the training teams. Don't get abck tothe UK much these days but I always have fond memories of the Sheffield days. Best wishes to you all. You can E mail me at above. Allan Clarke (Amman)

From: pascal norbury Email: <PASCAL@BEEB.NET>
Posted on: Friday, March 24, 2006, 04:43 PM

Hi, Just to let you know that the W.G. Shakesepeare Trophy now resides in the local cricket cabinet within the museum at edgbaston. I have copied your article on the trophy and will be adding this into the cabinet.regards, Pascal.

From: Cousin Roy Email: <roy-e3@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Monday, March 27, 2006, 09:38 PM

Hi Jim. Just checked out your website to see what's new. Very good as per usual but I have spotted 3 dropped S's in the photo caption on the My Family page. Bill, Winnie & Kate have all dropped the S from the middle of Shakespeare. How did that happen? Regards, Roy.

From: Richard C Redding Email: <richcredding@yahoo.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, March 29, 2006, 10:27 AM

What a record! I have enjoyed wading through most of it, as a KEGS member 1962-9.

From: jan jackson Email: <janjackson@uplogon.com>
Posted on: Monday, April 03, 2006, 03:29 AM

I came to your site to see genealogy, but I LOVE your photos. How I wish I could see the faces of my ancestors.You have done a trememdous job of honoring your family. Thanks for sharing them with the world.

From: Anita Perkins Email: <anitaprattperkins@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Monday, April 03, 2006, 04:30 AM

Archibald Perkins b. 1799 /vt. or Canada?? m'd: Nancy Irish b. Mass. 5 sons & 5 daughters. Anything in your database resembling these names??? Thanks!!! Anita

From: Robert M. Perkins Email: <rmperkins@worldnet.att.net>
Posted on: Monday, April 03, 2006, 08:14 PM

Doing much the same thing with my Perkins tree. They arrived in Boston in 1631. Lots of fun!

From: matt strong Email: <matt21@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, April 07, 2006, 08:13 AM

just wondering why it say that the cricket club doesnt play in castle brom when it does. @ the back of Arden Hall

From: Alan Powell Email: <arealpal@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Sunday, April 23, 2006, 05:10 PM

hi Jim, I am a gsl in your old district now spitfire, i am looking for as much information and photos of the old Yorkswood scout campsite. As i am trying to see what it looked like , we are going to visit the old site and try and piece together were everything was and were certain items have moved to like the bell the buildings etc. We are going to be working with our cubs ,scouts and explorers to enable this. i will be very grateful if you can help with your knowledge of the site and photos etc. kind regards alan

From: Tony Woodhall Email: <woodhall1@bigpond.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, May 03, 2006, 03:10 AM

Thoroughly enjoyed looking at the pictures and info regards Castle Bromwich. I am an ex resident, born and bred in CB but have lived abroad permanently since 1992. I enjoy reading about the history of the area and the people, and congratulate you on your research and presentation. Kind regards

From: Louis Caldicott Email: <louis.caldicott@btinternet.com>
Posted on: Thursday, May 04, 2006, 11:50 AM

Enjoyed the site immensely, great memories rekindled. Feel almost privileged to have been a part of Aston. Don't share any of your negative thoughts though, surely time has assuaged at least some of the angst.

From: Richard Gould Email: <gldrichard@yahoo.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, May 05, 2006, 07:57 PM

Enjoyed your site and have sent you an e-mail. If you would be so kind i think you might be able to help me.

From: Laurie Email: <parsgranny@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Tuesday, May 09, 2006, 12:51 AM

I was looking for my fathers name on line and found you.....my maiden name is spargo.

From: linda verge Email: <alverge@optonline.net>
Posted on: Wednesday, May 31, 2006, 08:11 PM

I have some Spargo pictures with out any names, some match yours. I would love to get more info and share my pictures with you. thanks/ Linda

From: Debbie Parker Email: <debsemail996@comcast.net>
Posted on: Sunday, June 04, 2006, 11:50 PM

These are exactly the kinds of photos I was looking for. My 17 year old son and I have a 3 night stopover in Frankfurt, and I've booked us in the Schlosshotel. I was hoping the town of Kronberg would get us off the beaten path to experience some German culture. Looks like it will! We can't wait. Thank you, Debbie Parker

From: shirley smith Email: <shirley.bent@tiscali.co.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, June 15, 2006, 09:39 PM

Enjoying your website with my guest in Barrow - Barbara Walden

From: Linda Verge Email: <alverge@optonline.net>
Posted on: Thursday, June 15, 2006, 11:23 PM

Dear Jim, Hello, I hope you had a nice holiday. We are going to Maine, in July. I am Hopeing that it will be cool up there.. I am not much for the heat..here in New Jersey. I am attaching a photo I believe to be that of Eliza Spargo, maybe you can idenitfy this picture. I compaired it to the one that you have and I think it is she. Do you know more about her that is not on your site? I have a lot of Spargo pictures dating back to England, 1800's and some tin types. Although the pictures are interesting there are no names on most of them. I have met some relatives of John Spargo. I am not sure how it all fits in.. My mom who could tell me more passed away in 2004, I found the pictures 2 months later. I wish people in the past would have told more about there relatives.Do

From: jack mather Email: <marionmather@aol.com>
Posted on: Monday, July 03, 2006, 01:50 PM

Thank you for the laughs and even the odd tear of sadness. Your troop could so easily have been my old group. 5th Preston St. Cuthberts Lancashire.Why even the photos are so alike, the mob at Sutton Park, we were almost drowned in the thunderstorm! The troop at Devon Summer camp. We were at Hope Cove that year, the only Summer Camp we got sunburnt! Our scouthut was wooden 1876 built, what a wreck, earthfloor, one gasmantle one penny in the meter alway ran out at about five to nine! Always a fight who should put the next penny in. Cub, Scout Senior Scout Rover and leader up to Group Scout Leader. 38 years service, by the way I married the Guide Captain and a good choice that was still happy together 46 later. Best wishes Jack

From: Keith Scrivens Email: <keith@scrivens.demon.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, July 12, 2006, 12:07 PM

I was at school 1957-63 and enjoyed two terms at Longdon, I guess, in 1960-61. One memory from Longdon was the regular early arrival of Ernie Pickering allowing himself time to have "a chat" with Daisy the pig. Happy days.

From: Tarlochan Singh Dhillon Email: <tarlochandhillon@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Thursday, July 13, 2006, 01:03 AM

I googled to your site. You are doing sterling work.I was known as T Singh at that time at school and used to be called "tosh". It brings back happy memories. I wonder if anyone remembers me. I remember some people - such as Graham Wright,Kevin Green,Colin Hough,and some of the teachers. I wonder if you can tell me where I am in the 1964 photo. I was there from app. 1961 to 1966. I would be happy to receive any emails from anyone who knew me. Yours affectionately, Tarlochan

From: John Penny Email: <jj.penny@btopenworld.com>
Posted on: Sunday, July 16, 2006, 05:57 PM

My first visit to your site on recommendation of Colin Payne. KEGSAston 1943-48. Could identify some pupils on 1950 photo if required and add a few comments. Full of admiration for your website skills concerning KEGS, but less enthusiastic of your caustic comments on the members of staff I knew. A different time, a different viewpoint, but worth consideration. I have school photographs of 1946 & 1948 if these interest you. Your move if you wish to make contact with the dead.

From: carol todd nee franklin Email: <carol1todd@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, July 24, 2006, 01:00 AM

i have realy enjoyed your web site i found it on friends reunited because i went to hodge hill j&I SCHOOL I MAY BE A LITTLE YOUNGER THEN YOURSELF BUT STILL ENJOYED THE TOUR ON YOUR WEB SITE IE HODGE HILL COMMEN THANKS ONCE AGAIN CAROL.

From: Maria Dickson Email: <mdickson@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, July 24, 2006, 03:01 PM

Chanced upon your website as I had typed in Ida Countess of Bradford. (I'm a Castle Bromwich resident currently fighting recreation ground closure. Enjoyed your website.

From: ROSEMARIE DONOHOE Email: <rose.donohoe@dfdstransport.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, July 26, 2006, 04:16 PM

Hello surprised huh!!!! just been talking to your cousin Roy, works for the same co as me!!!

From: Andrew Pickford Email: <andrew.pickford@dsl.pipex.com>
Posted on: Thursday, July 27, 2006, 11:10 PM

Found this site through Google and I must admit it captivated my attention until I had read all pages. I joined KEGS Aston (Floyd) in 1971 (I think) and can almost remember all of my contemporaries through hearing the register every day for 6-7 years (Cairns, Crouch, Dare, Dowd, Eaton, Gibbons, Goddard, Hilson, Hussain, Patterson, Pickford, Power, Price, etc. - about 40 of us, in total) I have memories of most of the teachers during my time there including Ward (Metalwork), Chilvers (Biology), Checkland (Geography), Gutteridge (Maths), Fenton (Physics), Benniwith, (English Language) and even Sheila (one of the dinner ladies). I managed to get on the 1 week trip to Longden in the first form but by the time I had reached the 3rd Form the 4-week visits had been cancelled. Dennis Hawley was head (and owner of L

From: Klaus Tide Email: <klaus.tide@tiscalinet.de>
Posted on: Saturday, July 29, 2006, 06:17 PM

Lieber Jimmy, ich hoffe Du kannst meine mail lesen. Da ich das englische Wort und die englische Schrift nicht so gut wie Du behersche, schreibe ich in Deutsch. Wenn Du nicht weißt wer ich bin, helfe ich Dir jetzt. Heute war mein Freund Jochem bei mir in Schwalbach und wir kamen auf Dich zu sprechen. Er sagte mir das Du sie bald hier in Schwalbach besuchen würdest. Ich sollte doch einmal auf deine Hompage gehen und mir deine Familie einmal anschauen. Besonders das Gästebuch sollte ich lesen. Dies habe ich eben getan und deshalb will ich meine Bewunderung ausdrücken über deine toll gestaltet Hompage. Jochem meinte zwar ich würde dein Gästebuch nicht lesen kÃnne, da mein englisch nicht gut ist, aber Google kann ja die Seiten ins Deutsche übersetzen. Wenn ich Jochem wieder sehe, werde ich ihm sagen das

From: mark cunningham Email: <markac@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Thursday, August 03, 2006, 02:15 PM

hi done my training with orial training in kirkcaldy fife and have contacted sempa and they can not supply me with a copy of my training what do i do now regards mark cunningham i done eitb parts 1 and 2

From: Mr. M J Cannar Email: <mikecannar@tiscali.co.uk>
Posted on: Saturday, August 05, 2006, 08:10 PM

anyone know any Cannar's?

From: Rod Birch Email: <aston.website@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Monday, August 07, 2006, 09:58 PM

I've taken a little time to read some of your blogs, and also looked at the ladder pictures. Youve have obviously put a lot of thought and effort into this gem of a website. Well Done I really must po back again for another visit!!

From: ann wallace Email: <itstimetogetup@hotmail.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 05:30 AM

I've just returned from a trip to Rome, NY and learned about my Grace Spargo, my grandmother. Her nephew James A. Spargo IV is on your website....who is James Cornish Spargo....I'm sending this to Tom McCarthy, my uncle cousin of James Spargo IV. Thanks for the intrigue!

From: Adele McEvilly (nee Wearing) Email: <mcevilly1@blueyonder.co.uk>
Posted on: Wednesday, August 09, 2006, 03:08 PM

Thooughly enjoyed reading and seeing the photos. That was also my introduction to G&S. I went on to sing many roles in different Operatic Societies. Howard became Professor of Entomology at Auckland University. N.Z.

From: Paul Canning Email: <p.canning@surrey.ac.uk>
Posted on: Sunday, August 13, 2006, 01:39 AM

Hi Jim, As an old ed myself (albeit from the class of 98!) I've really enjoyed browsing through your site. Its great that the internet can keep history alive in this way. Keep up the good work!

From: david yates Email: <david@djyates.fsnet.co.uk>
Posted on: Friday, August 18, 2006, 05:41 PM

Hi Jim, do you remember me?

From: Janet Johns nee Bateman Email: <teddies4nan@aol.com>
Posted on: Wednesday, August 23, 2006, 07:10 PM

I have just gone through a nostalgic hour or so - I think you do that when you get to my age - I remember Hodge Hill school like it was yesterday (52 years or so since I started my first day there) !! Happy days !!!!!!

From: Richard Stokes Email: <rkstokes@hotmail.co.uk>
Posted on: Tuesday, August 29, 2006, 07:13 PM

I notice that the Castle is up for sale, and it used to be an inn. Do yo know anything else about it?

From: keith. r jenney Email: <KEITHJENNEY@BTINTERNET.COM>
Posted on: Wednesday, August 30, 2006, 04:10 PM

Hi great site, do you have any MORE information on the CASTLE BROMWITCH MILL? ie who owned it and when? I can remember when the hall lodged our GEC Student Apprentices. Good luck with the site. KEITH JENNEY

From: Roger Keey Email: <r.keey@xtra.co.nz>
Posted on: Thursday, September 07, 2006, 10:02 AM

I am the third person from the left-hand edge on the front row of the upper right-hand quadrant of the March 1946 school photograph, a mere 60 years ago. I am not unknown, refer to Google.

From: Keith Green Email: <kiesel@maine.rr.com>
Posted on: Sunday, September 10, 2006, 01:16 PM

I was '54-'62, read languages at Cambridge, emigrated to U.S.A. in '68, retired now in Main. Favourite teachers: Colin Tyson, Gordon Doble, "Joe" Pinder, "Stosha" Rowlins, "Snuffy" Hothersall(elocution) - "Around the rugged rock the ragged rascal ran." Respected and loved them all and a wonderful headmaster L.G. Brandon, who was compassionate and wise and showed me great kindness. And dear old "Chas" who would bring coal for the fires without wishing to interrupt possible tests "Yavinatestsir?" Friends: "Tubby" Glasspool, Clive Sprawson, Richard Whitehouse, Johnny & Kevin(Keith?) Griffiths (not brothers). We were always on surname terms in those days.George Painter was remarkable for having personally known Thomas Hardy and Bernard Shaw at the end of their lives. Colin Tyson was a wonderful fellow. Mr

From: Paul Findon Email: <paul@pfindon.fsnet.co.uk>
Posted on: Monday, September 11, 2006, 03:30 PM

Hello, nice web page, brought back many memories as I was born in Tomlinson Road in 1960 and left CB for south warwickshire in 1980,by choice I might add. Still being ribbed at work as a brummie...but like I keep telling them Castle Brom never was or will be in B'ham. Born in warwickshire and still live in warwickshire!

From: Ann
Posted on: Tuesday, September 12, 2006, 12:18 PM

Hallo Jim, thanks for looking after us. Your Guestbook button is still not working Greetings Ann & Jochem

From: john mountney Email: <johnmountney28@ntlworld.com>
Posted on: Friday, October 13, 2006, 12:00 AM

went to kegs,aston 1952-57,under len brandon. remember chas at the tuck shop(or was it chad?) masters included froggie fenton,fergie tye,harry tyson (i may be little but i'm tough!),harold pinder and his stary pop out eyes,and watkin thomas a welshman teaching english. classmates included fisher,jumbo hill,ed heap,littlewood,ray lock,denis murphy,vic little,ian mutch,michael kempsey-bourne,revell,and others. I was in Temperley House,and in the school cross country team who used to train in Sutton Park. I also remember Derek Spink who was an ex Head Boy and involved with the Old Eds.

From: joseph aulde Email: <josephaulde2u@yahoo.com>
Posted on: Saturday, October 14, 2006, 01:56 AM

Howdy,I found this series by lookingup a family name of Cozens, Andrew Cozens was pictured among others in a photo and the name Cozens is in my mother's side of the family. I am a 39 year old artist in California, incidentally; our spelling of the last name was later altered to Cozzens when they settled in the U.S. generations ago. Any info on Andrew Cozens? He would be a very distant kin and I like to learn about folks wherever they are in the world. Please reply if you like, cheers, Joe

From: Alan Clare Email: <aclare@TalkTalk.net>
Posted on: Monday 13th November 2006, 2.13PM

I read your web page on Billy Chivers with very great interest. I am an AOEd (1949-1957 - we must have overlapped) who, like so many others, owes a big debt of gratitude to Billy Chiv, and as a family history buff I have located the whereabouts of himself in the 1901 Census. In 1901 the one-year old William B Chivers was living as the only child of Bryan and Clara Chivers at 48 Bond Street, Bourneville, Kings Norton (the road is just west off the odd bit of dual carriageway/island on the Pershore Road as you approach Stirchley). His Dad was a 27-year old Steam Engine Fitter born in Somerset and his Mom was a 37-year old from Coventry. We'd have to spend seven pounds to get a copy of his birth certificate from B'ham Register Office. In retrospect (isn't it all?), Billy Chivers was a marvellous, inspiring teacher who by his own enthusiasm for the subject made it a fascinating study for his wilful students. We loved his tales like the one of standing in his garden in Walsall Road with an enormous pair of cardboard ears strapped to his head listening to conversations 100s of yards away while his neighbours looked on, wondering what kind of lunatic was living among them. I believe that in his time at Aston he was taught Chemistry by FT Bentley (1915-1957) and he himself taught FC "Froggy" Fenton (1949-1981). All three generations of these teachers were therefore teaching at Aston together (in my time and yours). My favourite example, when I am boring friends and family on the subject of the massive lowering of standards in school education, is the fact that Billy Chive taught us the physics and maths of the diffraction of a ray of light through a raindrop and thereby being able to calculate the subtended angle of a rainbow. If this was not enough, he then showed us how a couple of reflections within the said raindrop would produce a double rainbow and what the two angles of these were. What is much more, we understood what was going on so well that we could reproduce the proof in an examination if called upon to do so. Many thanks for bringing back to mind a remarkable and lovable man. Alan Clare Sutton Coldfield