My Memories

by Don Cook 1939-43

Email: Dcook73rad@aol.com

Submitted by email

Arrived during preparations for evacuation to Gloucester. Like many others had to go to another school (in my case Turves Green) but got back to KN as evacuees returned. Enjoyed french and PT most. Wound up in 43 in 5C with the frightening Nunky Rimes as form-master. Teachers were also Pimple Clark who retired during my time, Plum Thomas, Pop Wright, PiggyHindle, Splasher Wareham, Sam Eccleston, Roach, (Freda Blakeston - first female), Mrs Backhouse, Pickering, Ellis, Ned Cooling. Headmaster was W.Reynolds.

Discipline was reasonable. I remember singing in the cloakroom rather loud and the result was having to polish the benches in the Physics Lab before I went home (Hindle).

In some senses these schooldays were extended for those who joined the School squadron of the ATC. We went to RAF camps etc and competed for the Leek Trophy at swimming. It was very enjoyable! There were Ted Willis, Pete Davies, Ken Adkins, Bill Fennel, Miff Smith, Graham Dalley, Geoff Warwick, Johnnie Owen, Frank Williams, Vic Lewis. Later some of us formed an association called Kings Norton Air Training Corps Old Boys Association (KNATCOBA)- I still have the badge. The world events of the time didn't seem to affect us too much although we all had to go in the forces and have a demob number even tho' the war  would be over. The officers of the squadron included Reynolds (CO), Sam Eccleston, Pickering and does anyone remember Walthew the groundsman? He was warrant officer. We put a dog in his bed when at camp. I think I've said enough,

Great days .........Don Cook.