AOSA ANNUAL REPORT 1999

This Magazine Contents

All Magazines Contents

As I eagerly read through the 98 annual report I was perhaps a little consoled to find that there are a large number of Old Scholars like me, still like me, trying to come to terms with the fact that our beloved school is no longer in existence. The very idea was inconceivable to many of us when it was first rumoured.

I arrived at Ayton in January 1925, a country lad one month short of ten years old. I had been assured that because a cousin was already established in the school, I would not be lonely; alas Cousin John (Reeler) - We can't find him in our records - Ed. was three years older than I and so did not wish to be hampered with a new kid. Thus Eric Newton was delegated to initiate me into the routine of boarding school life (by today’s standards then somewhat spartan). I think it was the kindly understanding of Jenny Bayliffe (form 2), the warm loving nature of the boys' matron, Miss Cavanagh, along with the sympathetic care of Sister Wallis in the San (where I spent a period with measles early in my stay) which helped me settle into the school quite quickly. 

Being of only average academic ability and not athletically built I did not achieve distinction in either field, but none the less I got a good grounding which has proved of great benefit throughout my long life - 83 years and still active. 

Although the school is no more, memories, and there are many, will endure as long as we live. Lessons with the various members of staff at the time, some of whom stood out, (Mr. Dennis, Miss Wells, Miss. Lawrenson, Mr. Mosscrop, Mr. Coates and Mr. Stapleton being but a few). Games, which introduced me to Football, Cricket, and Tennis which was my favourite, were all new to a country lad; trying to kick a sodden leather football a few yards and coming into the changing room all covered in top field mud still stand out in my mind.

Hobbies were a particular pleasure, metal work being my favourite. This was taught by Mr. Clayton, a skilful patient tutor who lived at the entrance to the coach road. I treasure several items in brass and copper, which I fashioned under Mr. Clayton’s guidance. My attempt to make a copper hanging lamp holder, at the request of my mother, prompted the remark “His ambition is greater than his skill” on the end of term report; many times I have reflected on the truth of that statement. 

There are many memories that linger - minor parts in stage plays, spending the 6d weekly pocket money in the village, replenishing the tuck box in The Old Box House, learning to skate on the frozen lake (long since made into a camping ground) and not least, sumptuous teas with parents at Cockerill’s, are a few that come to mind 

    Having connections with Ayton since 1900, through my Auntie Annie Bell (1899-1900) and father-in-law George Henry Ward (1902-04), continued by our son, Nigel (1957-63), in the 1950-60 era, our family can claim a long association with the school. I am eternally grateful for the sacrifice my parents made to afford me the opportunity to benefit from a school with such sound principles on which to build ones life.

Eric Bell (John E. Bell) 1925-30

This Magazine Contents | All Magazines Contents
Return Homepage