EX DOWNALL GREENERS 7

EX DOWNALL GREENERS 7


ex-Downall Greeners
ex-Downall Greeners 2
ex-Downall Greeners 3
ex-Downall Greeners 4
ex-Downall Greeners 5
ex-Downall Greeners 6

Sorry about the delay here it is THREAD 7

________________________________Thanks bambam ----------------------------------------------

"Maseumbula's Thread" I think this should be linked to this thead so as not to get lost as it's all about Downall Green

=====Factory Houses Garswood======

This is the map link ----Here----- that Dodger posted for us of the local area , just fill in Town, post code and add these two numbers at the bottom in OS coordinates 356175---400299 then pick the year you would like to look at

Dougie, thanks for posting the factory houses link, I'd missed it last time.

Looking at the map on that link, there is the name Marl Bank, which is new to me. I always thought that the mill was on the other side of the brook (near where the "k" in bank is). On the map, it is shown as being on the other side of the little "one ended" brook, and not in between as I thought.

Is it just my memory playing tricks on where the mill was? Did anyone ever find any photos of the actual mill?

Hi dougie, sorry it's taken so long I only come out of Wythenshawe hospital on wed night,i had to have a growth removed from my left lung but im on road to recovery now.

Joe--I always thought that the mill was on the other side of the brook (near where the "k" in bank is
So did I just under the bridge

Joe--On the map, it is shown as being on the other side of the little "one ended" brook
if you mean the buildings on the right at the end of the brook they would be in the mill fields on the right as you go in, could them be the Barrock for Lord Gerrads Army

Sorry to hear that all I can say look after yourself as they have done their bit,

Thanks dougie, its really good to be back on here.

MARL BANK,
The pair of semis at the bottom of Rectory Road, close to the crossroads, are named Marl Bank and have a date of 1887.

could,nt they be the terraced row where the crossroad is that were knocked down . they were near the cromps factory . i think gordon kitts once lived in 1 .

Oh sorry you have been ill bambam,
Glad to hear you on the mend .hope your Tina gave you some TLC.

Hello Trixie, hope you all ok yes tina was over here when I went in and I got loads of tlc, she had her birthday here and put lots of pics on facebook, im so glad she met her old friends while she was here I know she really enjoyed it quite sad to see them go really but back to reality.

ALL - it may have been asked previously.. if it has then please except my apologies.

WHY was the fun day in Downall Green called JELLY DAY ???

It was Walking Day that was called Jelly Sunday...
I'm not sure myself but someone will tell us i'm sure.
But we always had house parties on that day and all the family and friends came for tea and we always had jelly.

Thanks trixie.
I remember years ago walking up to the Church at Downall Green and the roads being packed with folk, I think it was around May time but not sure ??? The pub had standing room only and everyone was enjoying the day.
Also remember having a pint with Colin Hayes, he moved to Bryn when he got married but always talked about Downall Green at the pit. He once took me to a shed for a pint of home brew and the shed was called the "Chestnut Suite" what a afternnon that was....Does anyone recall the shed?

Campfire.

The correct name for the day was 'Trinity Sunday', this was when the Churches of Holy Trinity and St Andrews, Garswood came together for a walk around Downall Green with bands playing and banners flying, with everyone dressed in their best Summer outfits. A Service was held on the village green, and then as Trixie said, everyone went home for a party when lots of Jelly and Custard were consumed. A wonderful day was had by all.

Hi campfire, I remember jelly sunday very well I walked from 5yrs old to 15yrs old, we used to get all the gear from annie deacon's shop on rectory rd, as Trixie says all the famalies after the event went home for tea and the ladies had been cooking all day,everyone had jelly with whatever {hence} jelly sunday, the blue bell pub and the village club was absouletly packed out, I was also a very good friend of colin hayes and had spent time in the chestnut suite then staggered back to d-green the worse for wear, it's such a pity they do not celebrate jelly sunday like they used to.

Sorry Robin.i omitted to mention the most important thing "Trinity Sunday" etc..
My 3 children all walked at trinity.
I got carried away with all the talk of all that Jelly. we always had red and it's still the most favourite.

Hi Trixie, I bet you can make a good jelly.

Yes bambam i have lots & lots of practice.
Break Jelly up in squares in a jug, add a little water put in microwave (modern method )for about a minute then stir till disolved,add cold water to the required measurement.i find it sets quicker this way.
Everybody having jelly tomorrow?

Oh thanks Trixie, I will remember and try that I aint never made a jelly only ate loads

bambam - I'm pleased that you also frequented the "Chestnut Suite" can you recall the bloke who owned it? When was the last time you seen Colin Hayes, I've not seen him for years..

Well i don't know if it is widely known but they don't have a resident Rector there now,not sure if they are getting a replacement for the last one.

Hi campfire, yes I know the chap who owned the chestnut suite he still lives in cedar grove, not seen colin in years but I bumped into his brother Stephen at raei he tells me colin is fine, when im better I will go find him.

Hi Trixie, im missing summat here I aint been on in a while, is david abbott not there now.

No bambam he retired,i don't know where he as gone and i have not bothered to ask.
I don't think there is many in the congregation these days.so i'm told.

Thanks for info Trixie, such a shame it's a lovely church with a lot of background,hope someone takes over shortly.

bambam - thanks mate.. get better soon..

wil do, thanks campfire keep in touch.

Wow Trixie, that is the first time in my memory there hasn't been a resident Rector at Holy Trinity..... That was never my Church, I went to DG Methodist , but I would hate to see that Church go into decline... My Great great great great Grandmother was born in 1827 in Downall Green... Married there and both she and my Great great great great Granddad are buried there.. I only learned of that a couple of years ago, so when I go over this summer, I will be going to Holy Trinity to find their grave...

Yes it a sad time.Margaret still does flowers there.they have someone who does the services and funerals and i presume Weddings that goes to different churches.there is still a caretaker Lady..i must ask Sylvia how they go on with the choir,surely they must still have choir practice.
I will try and get more info.the house next to the church must be empty too. I was confirmed there and i got Married there nearly 51 years ago and all my children were Christened and confirmed there as well.my Grand parents and other relatives buried there.

Hiya jouell & trixie, I have been told that there will be another Rector at Holy Trinity but it does now take a few months to decide on the candidate (think they need to apply - like a job) It is a shame to not have a Rector there straight away, I guess that things have changed over the years. I'm assuming the information I have been given is correct no doubt if anyone knows different they will let us know.
I think all Downall Greeners have some link with the church. I was Christened there, confirmed there, married there 43 yrs ago and brought all my children home as babies - from wherever we were living - to be christened there. Also have family buried there. I'm sure it will all work out ok .....

Thanks suesa very good to know.it will be interesting to see how they go on.

The Church will not be having another full time permanent vicar / rector until a debt has been paid off?????
At this point in time I'm unaware of the amount of debt involved, or indeed what is being done to reduce the same.
I, like many people have had dealings with the Church for many years, plus my great, great grandparents before me.

Thanks for that Eric. I hadn't heard that. Hope it's not too long before there is a permanent rector in place.

I've been away for a few days it's nice to come home see you've all been talking to each other ,

jouell--Dave told me in the club last week you were coming over in July wouldn't it be nice if another reunion was coming up like last time you came over

Just like to add the very first time any women were allowed in the Village club for a drink was on a Trinity Sunday

Hi Dougie. Happy New Year to you, hope you had a good holiday. Thick frost down here in Kent, but the sun is shining in a clear blue sky. Hope they get Holy Trinity Church sorted out soon, wonderful Church, unfortunately, I did not get time to look round when I came up for Joe's funeral the other week, on that point, Seasons greetings to trixie and erwick. Must go now as I am about to get the train up to London as I have a RAF meeting at mid-day.

We got married at Holy Trinity Church in 1975 and our eldest was christened there in 1978 but when our second son was born in 1981 Rector Abbott would not christen him because we lived in another parish

My Daughter was Christened & Confirmed and lived in the Parish but he would not Marry her as she had not attended Church so after much upset.they went to St Peters,no problem.

I wondered how he went on with buriel if the person had not attened Church!!

Hi Dougie, I am thinking of getting together with David and family and any others such as yourself, Bert, Joan Thomas and her husband at the Bowling Club.. Have to get it sorted before I come over..

Tumtingle, I maybe wrong but i think women were first allowed in the Village club on Coronation day,but like i bay i could be wrong,

Tumtell sorry I have to say this but your right again it's my mistake it was for the Coronation, may have been followed by Trinity Sundays

Hi dougie, maybe it's time for a re-union i missed last one due to unforseen circumstances, i would love to meet present and old greeners this thread means a lot to me and i would certainly not miss next one.

I was told tonight that Ste Jones (aka 'bonehead'), lived in Wentworth Road, has died. He's only about 56 or 57. Maybe known to a few on here?

yes tonker i did know ste,that's sad news thanks for letting us know he was a couple of years older than me if you hear of funeral arrangements please keep me informed,thanks.RIP ste.

jouell Quote-----I am going to England this summer for 5 weeks, looking forward to that..

Quote jopuell---- Dougie, I am thinking of getting together with David and family at the bowling club

bambam-- Maybe us old DGs could gatecrash I'll be there as I'll be no the door if it comes off at the bowling club so I can sign you all in no problem

You never know may go to this one with his mate as his mates a member

lol dougie, that's just fine with me....

Thanks dougie, that sounds good not been in club since buffs moved out of old band hut.

hi dougie when youre signing bambam in i will be on the other side rubbing his name out.ha ha .it would be nice for some downall greeners there especialy for jouelle.

Thanks bert,i knew i could rely on you are ya bringing some sediment.

Bert if I get over run with the signing in bit you can always come and give me a lift as your also a member of the club, so thats three of us all being well You,Me,& Bambam

Make that five of us don't forget my boss was related to Dave

Oh that is funny...I am so looking forward to it and seeing you all... Dougie or Bert will have to tell David and put him in the picture...I would have to write a letter, as I can't phone him anymore, him giving up his house phone.... Yay, getting excited

Any room for me?
I'm a relative to Gordon Jukes and played football with Brian Naylor, does that count?

lol Eric, I'm sure someone will sign you in.. would be lovely to see you again....

Thanks Janet, it would be good to see you. I've had a few health problems over Christmas/New Year so not managed to get in touch, but although not 100%, I'll try next week.

By the way whilst I was in the Doctor's surgery about 3 weeks ago, I met someone who was a "blast from the past".....she introduced herself to me because I hadn't seen her up close, but as soon as I went to her it was clear that it was Veronica Lowe (that was). In the very short time we had together she said that your Roy was coming back??

Veronica was at Rectory and Grammar school with us, but she talked to me as if I knew what she'd been doing the past 50 years or so. Don't know anything about her since school days, but it was nice to know that she recognised me!!

Eric, I don't remember her.. Wonder how she knew about Roy

Janet, with my family history head on, I see that a VERONICA LOWE married BILLY SIMM in 1971. Now the only Billy Simm I know is in the building trade with Don Wakefield, based at Bryn Road.
Does either of these families ring any bells?

Not to me Eric... The only Simms I knew of, but never knew any of them personally, were the Simms who lived first house at the bottom of the steps on Hawthorn Ave...

Hi erwick,i lived next door to billy and veronica simm in elm ave in 70s, maybe same couple.

Hi bambam,
Janet has just confirmed to me that it is the same couple, thanks.

That's good erwick, i remember family well and have a bit of history of them both they had 2 children girl i think was cheryl, not sure of the boys name,if you need any more info you can e-mail me at bambamlewis@gmail.com.

hi i know billy and veronica they did live next to you bam bam.billy is a bit younger than me.i think billy came from bryn.if i remember known billy for a long time nice man

There was a Sandra Simm that had a younger(?) brother. Are they any relation to the ones mentioned? Cant for the life of me think of the brothers name.

some more bad news today . carl kemp died l/week.

Hi bri, that name Is familiar but can't picture it should I know him.

his dad tommy kemp used to go in the bell dav.

thanks bri, still cannot remember him, just been informed bob birkett of birch grove has passed away R.I.P BOB.

didnt know that dav . tommy kemp lived in chimes rd in bryn , but did his boozing in the bell . always smartly dressed & used to sit with kenny halliwell.

Thanks bri, I remember him now.

no probs dav.

Hi bri, if you hear of funeral arrangements for bob will you please let me know thanks.

Dave, Tommy Welding says Ste Jones' funeral is on Tuesday afternoon, 3.30 @ St.Helens Crem., then afterwards at Garswood Hall Bowling Club.

will do dav.

Thanks for that tonker, much appreciated.

cheers bri.

heard nowt yet dav, nobody seems to know anything.

No prob bri,cannot get in touch with any family members I ain't seen em in years, thanks pal.

Sad to report the death of an old friend and next door neighbour. John Sutton from Spindle Hillock sadly passed away at his family home in Robbinsville, North Carolina, where they had moved to in 2001.
John had cancer and knew that it was a question of time before the inevitable happened. 6 years as it turned out.
John and his wife, Alma had planned what was to be done after John's death and yesterday, Saturday I attended a "Celebration of John's life" at Birtle, Bury which was one of the things they had planned.
It was a moving few hours.
They had emigrated to America in 1978 and made a very good life for themselves in California and Florida.
It was good to meet up with Alma and her family and friends and also David Sutton, a nephew of John who I new from many years ago in Spindle Hillock.
Rest in peace John.

Sad news Eric.
R.I.P. John

Hi erwick, I went school with a lad from spindle hillock hugh john Sutton, is it same family.

Hi bambam,
I think we've had this conversation before on this forum.
It isn't the same person. John Sutton who passed away was 69 and lived at 67 Spindle Hillock, son of Harry and Lucy Sutton, Hugh John is a number of years younger and son to Hughie and Elsie. They lived nearer to the railway bridge, unsure of the number.

John Sutton came to visit me last time he was over here, he never told us that he had cancer, he looked fit and healthy then, r,I,p, John.

did he have a brother called kenny ? .

Yes i think he did he was older Whups and a Sister called Sheila.i think.may be wrong!!
I can recall what she looked like but the name may be wrong.
The name of Kenny's brother was called Jimmy and his sister was Maureen Sutton so could be a different family.

Kenny, Maureen and Jimmy were cousins to John. They lived across the road from each other in Spindle Hillock.

Thanks for your recent post erwick, you are correct we did have that write up before I have looked back on our board, thanks for all your info, I have spoken to my mother and she remembers both famalies. R.I.P john.

whups - Hi mate, how is big Dickie Eck getting on ???

Update us Brian If you see him tell him Dougie's been asking about him,(I've not seen him yet)

---Link Here--- To marriages from 1900/1915 at Holy Trinity Church you may find your grand parents on the list

very interesting dougie, thanks for sharing.

Very interesting, although my family not listed I noticed a listing for the house where I was born in Rectory Road also two listings for the house I live in now. Spotted that the landlord of the Blue Bell on 18th April 1908 was a John Greenall. That doesn't mean anything to me but just an interesting fact

he,s not to bad . had a fall the other week & had to ring the alarm for someone to come out to help him get up off the floor . was passing last monday & saw him through the window & gave him a shout & he waved back . so all in all he,s ok . still on the mob scooter though.

That's a shame about Dicky, always was a big strapping lad, the thousands of miles he's walked with his dogs over the years and now he's in the position he's in... Happens to most of us as we get older I suppose.. still... Wishing him All the Best...

i hope dicky has got a licence for that mobile scooter.never remember seeing him driving a car.not seen him for a long while i used to see him passing our house going to betting shop at bryn .nice fellow dick known him all my life.nice to hear he is doing all right.been passed hes house a few times but never seen him .

Glad to hear dickie is doing ok, had many a pint with him in bell.

hi dav , did you know that spike had fallen & broke his arm ? .

Hi bri, yes mick phoned me and said that he had fallen outside his house and broke his arm in 3 places {dozy sod} it must be strong ale in that bell I will have pay a visit, he tells me his mother will not let him out now but I can't see him being stuck in for long, you will have go round bri and take him for a pint ha ha.

i saw him on friday on his way round to the bus stop .

Hi bri, he phoned me this morning and said he was having plaster off on Monday, so he should be back to normal shortly.

ha ha , it depends wot you call normal dav.

well bri, st Helens flyer at 12 bells from d-green market tavern first stop 2 pints, then glass house 2 pints,then he will make his way to bus station calling at swan 2 pints,then bus home to village club 2 pints not a bad day out eh.

no it,s not dav. he says he dos,nt booze much.

Hi bri, I hope spike is ok I have tried to get in touch with him regarding his recent visit to hospital but he finds mobile phones hard to work and cannot do text, if you see him please tell him I have been asking about his welfare, cheers bri.

no probs dav. i,ll let him know.

Thanks bri.

We have been to the churchyard today to remove the Christmas pots and flowers from my Mams grave and replace them with her Mothering Sunday flowers, one thing I don't like seeing is Christmas pots and flowers left on people's graves for too long it's like the flowers are saying they've not been since Christmas (well that's what I always think)

I leave a brush there to give the grave and path a clean it only takes a few minutes and it looks better

That's nice dougie it seems most of the graves are looked after there.

For anyone that doesn't know Rector Hall's grave is at the top on the right as you look at the photo,just for interest anyone know why is gravestone faces the opposite way to the rest of the gravestones

Thanks for doing your bit Dougie.
It would be interesting to know about the gravestone facing the other way,but i don't think many would be still alive now to give you an answer,just out of curiosity is there anymore Rectors buried in there?
I remember him so well.

Rector Hall and Stan Foster (school headmaster) walking day 1954 taken off WW album to show you him, Trixie I always clean that section of the graveyard where it leads to my Mams grave

Thanks Dougie it brings back so many Memories?
Stan Foster always seemed an old Man to me,never remember him looking any different.but Rector Hall always looked the same too.

Trixie, Rector Eaton is buried there along with his family, just as you go through the gate where the rubbish bins are.
Regarding the direction the gravestone is pointing, it's probably Rector Hall looking for the "Bell"???
The little boy holding Rector Hall's hand is Roger Dandridge, the grandson to Mr. Foster.

iv,e noticed that this is happening at quite a lot of rectors in other graveyards.

Rector Hall was laid to rest the the opposite way to everyone else so if they all were all in church he would be facing his congregation like he always did

erwick shame on you not knowing why he points the opposite way

Well it may be both things Dougie and erwick because he was always in one place or the other.
Things were never the same after he went.so nobody could follow him as he was well liked by so many people.

trixie, I should have put on resurrection day Rector Hall will already be facing his congregation

I'm not really sure as to the order the Rectors were there, but when did Rector Hall die, and who replaced him? I'm going to guess it was about 1962.

Tell me the name of who the rector was pre '62, and I'll tell you a surprising story...

Pre '62 was Rector Hall....was'nt it?

1838-1869 H.H.SHERLOCK
1869-1901 W.J.MELVILLE
1902-1933 W.WILLIAMS
1933-1961 W.R.H.HALL
1962-1964 W.A.GALE
1964-1980 E.EATON
1980-2015 D.R.ABBOTT

The story I have (which is true) probably points to the time of Rector Hall.

About 12 months before he died, he assaulted a teenager so badly that the victim required medical attention, and was confined to bed for a week. The attending physician was Dr. McCurdy, who tried to persuade the parents to report him to the Police...

Apart from myself, there are others that can corroborate this. Surprising, considering how well liked he was.

Rector hall once told his congregation if anyone needs to talk to me you will find me behind blue bell door.

Anyone remember his car it must have been a vintage car even in the 50s it was that old

I vagely remember that he was bigger than the car.am i right?was it white?

I remember Rector Hall's funeral as I was one of the bearers that carried the coffin into the Church the evening before the funeral, it was a very big affair. I was serving in the RAF at the time and wore my uniform. The car he drove was an Austin Seven, can't be sure about the colour, but I think it was black. I remember that he gave me a lift one day, and as I got in, he told me to mind where I put my feet, when I looked down at the floor, I could see the roadway through the holes in the floor, no MOT in those days.

Hi Robin, So you will be able to pick his plot from the photo I uploaded my Mam/Dad are the second grave down on the left, by the way the back of your old house is in clear view when you look across with it being winter,

Anyone remember the glass cover that was over Rector Williams grave in the 40s it's the first one on the corner if you were walking down towards the Dell,

Hi Dougie. Hope you are well, I noticed that you had a good view of the rear of Booths Brow Road when I attended Joe Calderbanks funeral recently.

i think it,s in the plot facing the toilets . eddie banks & dave roberts are there as well.

Can any of you shed any more light on the assault incident I mentioned above?

His car was Grey & Rust, A 1937 Austin 7,

Dougie, PeterP, Dave, Bert.. Sun July 26th at 3pm....

Looks like I'll be having a early night on the 26th july as I only usually turn out at 8,00pm on Sunday night (see you all there all being well)

Dougie I will show my face but still turn out at night

It's in the afternoon as I was advised that would be the best time for everyone to be able to talk as it won't be as busy ....

Jouell don't worry if folk want a chin wag they will show their faces

Just for jouell as promise
Looking down the side at the old police garages


The back of the old clinic if I get the chance to the one of the front I will do

Thanks Dougie... I bet that house is lovely inside, not the 'House of Horrors' it used to be, lol...
Wonder if it's haunted at all, if they ever get woke up with the screams of children having their teeth yanked out

Heard last night that the village club is closing on the 2nd April

Just been round to the club. There are no signs or posters, but I've set the wheels in motion to try to get to the bottom of it.

Had a wonderful day today. I had the pleasure to be invited to the opening of the new education and learning centre at the Battle of Britain Memorial site at Capel le Ferne on the cliftop above Folkestone in Kent. The ceremony was performed by HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh. As a Trustee of the Memorial, I had the honour to be introduced to them both, together with HRH Prince Michael of Kent, who is our Patron. Unfortunately, the weather could not have been worse, with heavy rain, high winds and mist, a planned flypast by a Spitfire and Hurricane, together with a Typhoon had to be cancelled. You can't win them all.

Very nice to Robin, I think you may be the only D Greener to have had the honour of meeting our Queen.. Imagine how thrilled your parents and Isobel would have been for you, as I am sure your wife and children are..

Too bad about the weather and the cancelled flypast.. The best planning in the world cannot control the weather....You still had a day to remember...I am happy for you....

congratulations Robin on meeting the queen.you must be very proud.

Hi jouell. Thank you, Mum would have been over the moon, she was always a huge fan of the Royalty. I took along my eldest daughter Suzanne with me as my guest, she was delighted to get so close to the Royal party, however, she did resist the temptation to get a "selfie" with the Queen as my grandaughter requested.

Oh my, I can't imagine anyone trying to take a "selfie" with the Queen. For your sake I am happy she resisted, otherwise she may have been the recipient of 'Glare' the Queen is known to give at times....
Anyway, it was a day you and your family will always remember.. good for you...

Well done Robin,i suppose it was due to a lot of work you have done there.
I can imagine Suzanne enjoying it all as well.

Yes i think if your Mum was alive she would have beaten Suzanne to the post..
I think someone did get a selfie with the Queen last year but accidentally on purpose!

erwick - re- club ... try t ocontact Scott Wall if yo uknow him (club secretary) as he's posted recently on facebook about the woes of the club. In the process of trying to raise funds to keep it afloat.

i,ll be honest here, i dont have much time for the village club . it,s the only club i know that did,nt want it,s own parishoners in it .you were looked down & frowned upon if you went in the bell .so now it wants help from them now it,s in trouble . well there,s 1 here that wont be saddened by the passing of the village club.

he's right, I always went in the club or the Legion but your your right about the people that went in the club in the 50/60s, I don't know after that as I had moved out of DG then

let me assure you dougie . nothing ever did change.

whups - I still fondly remember having a pint with Colin Hayes in the "Chestnut Suite" but for the life of me, I could'nt recall which garden it was in..

it was chris bolans house in cedar grove ste. bambam can tell you about the chestnut suite having spent many an hour in there.

Which number was that house? (Chris Bolans) I dont recall the name, so he must have lived there after we moved.

i,m not sure, bambam can tell you.

Hi guys the chestnut suite was at 8 cedar grove, before chris and rita took over the dwelling it belonged to annie slater who later in life moved to a bungalow in landgate, she was also related to the famous slaters of ashton school uniforms and fruit and veg.

Thanks for that bambam. Annie still lived there when we moved. If memory serves, her husband was Manny, and they had three lads. John, Raymond, Colin. The last time I saw any of them was in t'Bell...

hi uncle joe there was three sons they were Richard who passed away along time ago John and Raymond.and Rita who lives there now.

Bert, do you know someone called Tony that used to live near the big island? Cant remember his last name.

you forgot colin bert ? .

There was a Tony Wild that lived in Hawthorne Avenue.

hi joe yes i moved in his mothers house for a short while his name was tony fagan he was a friend of your arthur.

sorry whups but i dont remember a colin .ray used to mate with colin young and ray young.but i dont know of colin

your right bert iv,e got the families mixed up.

yes there was rita, Richard, ray,and john, and all had nick names, rita was mickey rickey, Richard was black nath, john was black jack,and ray was gusset, good old days I remember them all very well.

Hi jouell, thanks for arranging 26th july for all to meet at bowling club hope all on thread has seen it, I can see it being a good afternoon, cannot wait to see all my friends who I know from d-green, and people who dwell there now, also looking forward to meeting dougie who I have not met yet,and yourself who I have not seen since I was a toddler.

Hi bambam, our Stephen will be there,you know him.. You are the same age I think as Stephen, I am 14 years older than Stephen, so I don't know you at all, I didn't know your dad, as he was older than I am, but I do remember him and his friend something Hill ? and your grandma.. but it will be lovely to see everyone. I am very excited and looking forward to the get together...

Thanks jouell, Stephen is 12 months older than me it will be nice to see him there, my father grew up in birch grove and his mate's name was jimmy hill also from birch grove,it would be great if we could get some of Roberts family there as well and whups from hawthorn ave who is on ww and a good friend of mine, it would also be nice to see dicky eccleston if he is well enough ,I cannot wait.

I only knew Glenda, we were good friends, that is the only reason I remembered your Dad and Grandma, I only used to go to Birch Grove to go to Glendas house... As for the others you mention, I guess we will have to wait and see who turns up on the day ...

Thanks jouell, we have a lot of time yet so yes hopefully it will be a good turn out.

hi whups as the village club shut.i got told yesterday at bryn.by a downall greener.

Hi bert.just heard from Scott Wall on Garswood remembers that it is still open.
He says they are only open in the Evenings may open longer when the weather warms up.

they are calling the new benefactor MR X. sounds like summat from a comic book.

lets hope its not the invisible man

Hi bri, spike phoned me and told me the take over by the new chap will not see club shut he is building a new club problably a little smaller than it is now, the bowling green will go for house development and one of the houses on rectory rd as it will not be wide enough when property has been built, he seems to think the new owner lives on Leyland green road, me and you both know who that is.

i,ll believe it wen i see it dav.

Yes!he has never been a club Man.

so, the vultures move in. what's the use of a village club without it's bowling green. a beer hole can be built anywhere, a bowling green can't. more destruction from someone profiting from a dire situation. Mr X cannot be termed a 'benefactor' I'm afraid

Does anyone have any pictures from when it was a 'Proper Village ' club.. Pics of the Club trips for the children and The Queens Coronation celebrations..

Is this Mr X the son of someone who used to live on Poplar Ave, before he made it into the Big time...?

it could be ronnie clark ? .

The one i am thinkin of is not a Old greener.i must have the wrong one but the one i thought does live in LGR.

The old greeners seem to think it could be frank Philips, but we will see.

I didn't think of Frank Philips, I don't think of him as a old DGreener... I was thinking of someone else...

As you say bambam we will see..

hi jouelle do you mean the family who had clothes shops.who lived close to you.it cant keep going on like like it is .i have a friend who loves that club and has tried very hard to keep that club going.so i .hope somehow they manage to keep it going .

Yes Bert, although I don't know which of the sons, or indeed if any of the sons even live there now..

I have some pics of my Dad playing on the greens with some of his friends. glad I have those, especially if it closes..

.Another part of DG history will be gone...Blue Bell Bowling green, (is the pub still there and open?).. the Legion, the S and S, Methodist Chapel..the old school and shops, nothing left from our young days...

has anyone found out what is going to happen to the club.or is it just hearsay.jouelle i dont think it is any of the brothers who you mentioned.it could be one of the builder from the area.it seems the greeners have all gone on holiday.nobody been on since your lastpost

bert, iv,e mentioned further up this blog who i think it is. if i,m right then the club will be no more in a short space of time.

I know Bert I was thinking it was me, killer of threads I leave 9 weeks from tomorrow, countdown has begun, so excited I can't wait...

hi jouell yes it will soon pass.it will be nice to see you.are you staying at a friends or a relative.i thought all greeners had gone on holiday with no one coming on the thread.but now i know .they know you will soon be on your way.ha ha. speak to you soon.

Yes Bert, I'll call in a day or so...

Hi jouell- I still look and take photo's of the old place took a few and sent them to Photo-a-Day he must get allot as I think only three made it -

Here is one just for you I sent in ? where was I standing


Another two here the old British school in Ashton now made into a nursing home, / what was the name of the shop at the back of me when you lived here


This is the M6 slip road to Wigan taken off the Bridge in DG road, ? do you remember both Miss Jolly and Mr Waterhouse lived in the houses on the right going to Bryn


You will have seen this many times but some on WW may never have seen it had it been uploaded

Remember this place on Wigan Road


Will the real Dougie stand up please these are at the Bowling club


This is wnat you will see in July


This is where I'll be buying you a drink


Maybe a game off Pool or Bowls hope we have a nice sunny day

Thank you Dougie, that is so nice of you.. I'm choking back tears looking at the pics and the memories... Your 'Will the real Dougie please stand up ', made me laugh and you were standing on Rectory rd, with what were the old cottages and what used to be the Co-op on your left... I can't remember the name of who had the farm when I was young.. Are there any bluebells left in the woods? I remember Mrs Jolly with great fondness.. After I married and lived on Meadowcroft I used to see her when walking to DG and she still remembered me... The club looks very nice Dougie, I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone there 11 weeks from tomorrow....

Jouell the farm was Jack Lyons and I am led to believe it is still run by the Lyons family

That's it, I knew it began with a L, but for the life of me, couldn't come up with the name... Thanks Peter....

Yes Peter it is still run by the Lyon family, it is run by John Lyons son Andrew who is a very nice chap.one of the things in Downall Green that has not changed.

Jouell-- They must now class Church and Farm in DG as being in Merseyside now but the farm is still in the Wigan borough

The shop I asked about was the posh ladies shop remember Joy Beverly's

if you look at the photo showing the seats and bar thats where Bert sits when in the club, I've took notice he alway sits on the back so he can't get out to go to the bar or It's so he doesn't miss anything as he can see all round

Could you not pick me out as we did meet about three years ago

hi Dougie.yes thats where i sit with my friends under television so if somebody says it my round i cant hear.i call that being clever, but i miss nothing.

I'm crying laughing here, I do miss the British humour, it goes right over their heads here....I can't wait to get over and see everyone...

Where was Joy Beverlys,? I have NO recollection at all of any posh ladies shop... I remember someone in one of the old Cottages off the Green made and altered dresses...but a shop????? Oh Boy, I'm getting worried now.....
Yes Dougie, I do remember meeting you at the reunion, I never knew you or any of your sibling, but I remember you, your brothers Ralph, Kenny and younger sister whose name has slipped my memory, Lily? I do remember she was a beautiful looking girl.. I don't remember your older sisters...
Today is Mothers Day here.. My daughter is coming to pick me up and we are driving down to the coast, to sit overlooking the water and relax... I'll talk to you all later....

Hope you had a nice Mother's Day as you call it over there

Joy Beverly's was the big shop on corner of Old Road in the 60/70s it would have been at the back of me when I took the photo of the British school in Ashton,

I remember someone in one of the old Cottages off the Green made and altered dresses yes Mrs Rotherham, Tony's Mum

You've still not said which of the three is me

Dougie, I racked my brains trying to think of that shop....it just now came to me... but didn't she sell childrens clothes also, I seem to remember buying my daughters First Communion dresses there...

Hi Dougie seen the two photoes of you and your double.spoke to jouelle earlier and told her we will know the real dougie when we see who buys the ale because it will be the real Dougie who is still sitting in the corner. ha ha .

Bert--You should know none of the bodies are mine I just put my head on these bowlers that was having a cup of tea and past it round asking who's bodies are they

Hahahahaha you two... I have to say Dougie, Bert knows you a lot better than I, I don't know your body, I only know your face, good for a laugh though, omg, I mean the joke, not your face

So did your brother Roy from France he only knew my face that day in Ashton but we had a good chat

The reason I remember Joy Beverly's shop I knew her but under a different name some one else from DG may remember her

I didn't know Joy, or whoever.. all day I was trying to remember a shop there, but the only thing I could think of was a chippy, then all of a sudden it came to me... I am pretty sure I got my daughters First Communion dresses from there...

Roy doesn't comment or anything on WW, but he does read the DG thread...That's how he knew your face Dougie, from reading on here... he'll probably have something to say after he reads this

Dougie,

The only other name for Joy Beverley, that I can think of is Joy Wright. She was one of the Beverley sisters who married Billy Wright the Wolves and England captain.

Somehow though I think you must know her under another name.

Beverley Spencer. daughter of Dr. Spencer.

condolences to kevin atherton & his family who lost his wife last week.

Condolences to Malcolm Slater on the loss of his son Keith aged 36yrs

condolences to kevin and malcolm so sorry for yourloss hope your loved ones rest in peace. did not know malcolm had a son .not seen malcolm for years.someone told me he lived in southport.

Bert he lives in North Wales some where. Next time I see Alan I must ask him for Malc's address. I have not seen him myself for years. He was my best man at our wedding 40yrs ago in August

4 weeks today, I will be on my way

. 28 sleeps.

4 weeks today, I will be on my way

I was in the Blood Tub in Ashton town centre today with a man that lived on DG estate at one time it was his 70th birthday, I was calling you again you know as I do told him you was coming over in July, his reply was quote--She was in the same class as me at DG school a lively girl with the nicest blond hair you ever saw, so I maybe able to get him to come along with me, hope your keeping well

Trixie I won't be counting sleeps until the last week ...

Dougie,yes I do know how you call me when you are out I am beginning to stress out a bit, soo much I have to do, leave all kinds of instructions for my husband, if he follows them, will be another matter.. I am the gardener, this time of year here is Tropical weather, things grow so fast, I don't want to come back to a jungle... The house, the cat, the birds, all things I take care of... I have lists a mile long of things he needs to do whilst I am gone...

Anyway, I think you may have to tell me who the 'Mystery man is...I don't handle surprises too well I really am looking forward to the gathering in the club though, I do hope people will come. I will send out a reminder in a couple of weeks...

Apart from the freaking out at so much to do, I am doing well Thank You, hope you are to..Talk soon..

Had a ride round D/G for the 1st time in ages got chatting with Colin Heyes ex-pitman like me. He was telling me Whups has been in hospital. I hope they find out what's wrong with him and he as a full recovery

Three weeks

wont be long now .you must be getting excited a little bit.will .see you soon.

Been really busy Bert, stressing out , now I have got a ear infection, need to get that sorted before I fly.. Slowly getting things sorted, be there before I know it...

i turn the big six o tomorrow 20th june.

Happy Birthday Whups for tomorrow hope you have many more

Happy Birthday Brian! Have a great day

i,ll try my best susan.

Brian last year was my 60th and one of my sons said we are going to have a surprise party I said it would be a surprise has I would not be there, I am not a party animal

i understand that peter, but at our age we must try & enjoy everything put in front of us. as you know iv,e been in hospital & still dont know what,s wrong with me,but i,m not going to let it get in my way of enjoying my 60th. it,s tinged with a little bit of sadness as my old mate keith dutton who is sadly not with us would have been 60 the day after me on the 21st.

happy birthday brian hope you have a good one.i agree enjoy it while you can dont get to drunk

you know me bert, i,ll be the only 1 sober LOL.

Happy birthday Brianhave a good one

thanx brian.

Happy birthday brian

Happy Birthday Brian..welcome to the 60+ club

thanx ste & colin.

Brian - Ste Morley said if you did'nt have the walking stick, you would only look in your late 40's.
Just to note: He said it in Tommies around tea time and had been out since Dinner

Only joking mate.. Keep well

Two more weeks..

Don't forget Sun July 26th Bowling Club...

sounds about right ste.

Belated Birthday wishes Brian.sorry i missed it i was away and come back with an awful virus,i got a big one coming up in September.xx not on your head this time.

hi trixie have you been sailing again.to pick up your virus.where have you been this time.only jealous
.not been for a while through health issues.

Hi Bert. Hope you are better now.we have Been to Norway . Had a couple of sunny days but had enough snow now. Somebody started this virus and was going round the ship for last week, hoping not to catch it but we did..
Went on princess for £749 for 15 days.

Garswood Hall played The Village Club at G.H. last night I took loads of photo's,they are now up on the bowling green
--A small one here-- don't forget press Ctrl key and use scroll wheel to enlarge photo

7 more sleeps

Was talking with dave in the club on Sunday night see you in the club Sunday Afternoon 26th July I hope to meet a few off WW as well as them from Downer Green, Wigan Worlds not had a meet up for over two years so it's as good a time as any to say hello to some old and new faces

Jouell.




hope you have a great trip.x

Thank You Trixie..


Dougie, I don't even want to have a guess as to what you and David were talking about I am looking forward to seeing you and the rest of the gang, whoever they may be.. The only Wigan Worlders I know are Downall Greeners..

Welcome one welcome all

Dougie--The only Wigan Worlders I know are Downall Greeners.. maybe so but you've posted on all the forums for years,I hope a few turn up to meet you and see some old friends off WW as I've said before we've had a few meet ups in the past, the invisible man they tell me he's been in the club a few times with his mate but only a few knows him by sight

Oh, ok, I hadn't thought about it that way.. so, we'll see who turns up then...Do you know him and his mate ? I'm excited, can't wait to get there...won't be long now...

Told Dave last night it's affecting you this holiday as your cracking up your now counting sleeps instead of sheep at night, only 7 sleeps to go

Only 5 now Dougie..

4

it wont be long now.

Bert-- which one of us is take her over the Millfields to show her Bluebell wood why she's here as she keeps asking about it,---Edited-----

Whaaaat?


3

2. Just in case you are to busy packing Jouell.

too funny Trixie, thank you... all packed, just about to leave for a mani / pedi.....

It's Wigin you are comin to not London jouell.

enough with the wavy snots, I am not he who shall not be named

.


For anybody else they are cheerleaders.

ok

If you see me in Ashton give me a shout your Roy did and he had never seen me before

If I go down Ashton and see you I will, if not I'll see you at the club

48 hours from now I will be flying over South Carolina, 8 hours out of Manchester

This time tomorrow I will be over half way to Orlando, to get my flight to Manchester...I am looking forward to seeing my DG and WW friends soon...

Anyone seen her yet are is she still in bed, a big orange for the first one to see her

Dougie I would have thought you would have met her at the airport with a big placard with her name on it The council must not want me to meet her they are shutting Bryn Road South on the 26th's

Where has everybody gone??

Trixie,
We're all outside the Bowling Club. Limited seats for the 26th!!!

A bit like Wimbledon but waiting for Janet.has anyone seen her yet??

Dave (her cousin)has seen her

Well i think there must be quite a queue by now at the club as loads of people have disapeared from here.

Trixie--I hope a few of her friends from Downall Green turn up to see her at Garswood Hall Bowling Club Next Sunday the 26th July plus some off Wigan World why she's over

Ye but conversation has completely stopped on here.
It will be a very long queue by next week. don't forget your union jack flags,
I hope you all have a great time catching up together.

hi trixie i think all the downall greeners have gone on holiday.since janet came home.there is nobody coming on here lately i think there is silence in downall green which we no is unusual.so i just get jealous reading about your cruising trips.

Well roll on September.New york & Canada.
Birthday treat plus spending the kids inheritance..hope all is well with you Bert.

hi trixie not been holidaying for awhile due to using oxygen quite alot through lung problems.cost to much for insurance and oxygen to go abroad.but still getting about .

Sorry to hear you are not well Bert.hope you can manage another Cruise soon.take care.xx

Hi folks, so sorry I aint been on in a while spent some time in hospital and daily visits here there and everywhere since I got out,but I will see ya all on sunday and we can have a good chin wag.

Well thats two of us anyone else going see you there bambam

I'm coming Dougie, but I need you to sign me in.

sorry you have been in hospital dave.it willbe good to see you on sunday and dougie and hopefully quite a few more.see you tomorrow.

Sorry you have been in hospital bambam,hope you are well now.
I hope you all have a lovely time tomorrow,i would have loved to join you all but to far away.maybe sometime.

Hi bert,dougie one of you will have to sign me in as well I am looking forward to it and Trixie so sorry you will not be there I would love to have met ya, but no doubt dougie and bert will be clicking some pics to e-mail you I will take my camera to to get all their mugs,i hope it's a good turn out can't wait for bert buy me a pint.

nowt changes with bam bam always after free ale

Heard today Mrs Adamson(Leyland Green Rd)has passed away RIP

Thats right Peter she passed away peacefully on Monday morning aged 90 R.I.P Nell

Where has Geoff gone? It seems a while since he posted on here.
Has he emigrated to Florida?

Any one know where/when Mrs Adamson's funeral is taking place

anyone who knew ste dymitrow from garswood he died l/week & his fureral was today . he was 58.

I'm baaaack

Thank you to everyone who came to the Bowling Club, it was a delight to have seen each and everyone of you there,, the ones I knew and the ones I met for the first time.. For me it was a lovely afternoon and I hope it was the same for you to... Hopefully it won't be too long before we can do it again... In the meantime, I have a lot of catching up to do at home, the price I pay for being away for 5 weeks

Hi Jouell
Nice to see you again but if you had been a male friend I think we would have been able to spend more time with you than we did was asking dave in the club on Friday night had you got home OK he didn't know then but said you left at 7.30am,

Lots of places I could have shown an old Wiginer when you have a car and know the place like I do

hi jouelle nice to see you got back .it was a nice afternoon in the club had a good chat with friends and people who i have not seen .and dave put on a very good buffet.i did thank him.hope to see you again .

just to let you know that my cousin christine birchall ( nee frodsham) passed away on monday morning. she was 63.

So so sad christene was my neibour for many years in old road I last saw her on Christmas Day last year sending love to paul lee and Simon and all her family xx

here funeral is on monday 14th @ our ladys at 11-00.

Where has Robin and Geoff gone.
Anybody know.?

hi trixie i dont know where robin and geoff has gone where as all the greeners gone.the only time we hear of anyone its bad news.

Bit surprised that none of the ex-DG'ers have congratulated Norman Prior on his achievement...

Well i am back, not Dead but i feel like i am.got the rotten coughing virus,had it a week already but bin doctors today and got antibiotics so hopefully on the mend.my husbands got it now.apparently all the family has had it while we have been awaw.and 90% the ship had it too!!
Not to e repeated i hope.

Trixie, Have you sailed on the P&o Ventura? If so what was the ship like? Having Christmas on it to the Canneries & Lisbon.

some people have all the luck.i wished it was me.not been anywhere this year.but I hope you and your wife have a lovely time.

No bentlegs not been on Ventura but not heard any bad reports about her.
Is this your first cruise you are venturing on?are you travelling on Eavesways if so they are very good to travel with.
Enjoy..
We are still ill in bed no sign of improving yet with antibiotics.
Enjoying the meals on Wheels though.

hi Trixie I hope you and your family get well soon.which ship have you been on this time.we are realy missing our cruising.been looking into travelling with me being on oxygenall nearly all the time.but it is dear.but you cant take it with you even though we have not got any.

Oh poor Bert.there seems to be more and more disabled people going cruising now.espesially with the companies that pick up and deliver your luggage to and from the ships.
We went on the Aurora this time but going on the Oceana in february to New Orleans 5 weeks.met some nice people from Standish and Hindley so was able to speak Wigan again for a while.
I hope you feel better soon.x

Trixie, you lucky lucky devil.thanks for your input. It is the second one although the first was only 6 nights along the coast of France and Belgium,yes we went down with Eavesway, could have got the coach from Bryn but they said we had to go to Bolton. They are nice coaches,

Try intercruise.spoke to someone else that had to go to Reebok stadium.from standish
Take plenty medication with you because dear do if you need to go to the doctor on board.throat tabs,paracetomol.cough medicine,.the sea sick tabs on board are good.but just a precaution.look on the intercruise website to check where they pick up.
Happy Christmas.

Good evening all, sorry that I have not been corresponding recently, the reason being that I got so fed up with all the arguing and name calling, very rarely did you learn anything useful and even rarer was there a subject that you could have a sensible conversation about. There are a lot of interesting people on here, however, there are number of posters who just want to act like spoiled children and seem to post on the site just to get their name in print and not provide anything constructive. These people know who they are and need to take a good look at themselves, you are just ruining the site for the majority of those who just want to have a friendly chat with their friends. I myself have been very busy recently with RAF business, have been on Services and Parades in St Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Peterborough Cathedral, Lincoln Bomber Command Memorial and next month I hope to be in Birmingham. I do hope that all my friends in D/G and elsewhere are keeping well, I do look on the W/W site every now and than but cannot be bothered to log on, this time I saw that my name had been mentioned, and thought that it would have been bad manners not to have replied. Best wishes to you all.

I agree with what you say Robin.just glad to hear you are well.take care.

where as everybody gone.has downall green moved .I know they come under Merseyside now but has everybody moved. where is bam bamnot seen are heard of him since janets meeting in the bowling club.dont see many on last bus on Friday nights.

Is bambam ok.not long since he was unwell..
Hope you are keeping on the best side bert.only me & thee here.

hi Trixie banged into one of bambam friends today he said bambam had an operation on his shoulder.but it had not worked so he has to go back to wrightington for it done again .because he has so much pain.so I hope him all the best and hope he gets better soon.

Thanks bert.get well very soon bambam.xx

I am here... the day after I got back home, I got dropped in the deep end... Not going into details, but a lot of stuff and including my M-in-L passing away.. Now we are only a month away from Christmas and I haven't done a thing for it yet..
But just wanted you to know I haven't deserted what almost seems to be a sinking ship..
Hope all of you are well, speedy recovery to Bambam ..

Jouell once your sorted then you will be back, hope you did enjoy yourself when you were home

Peter, it was the BEST for a lot of different reasons.. So happy I got to see / meet so many friends.. So many family gatherings and days out.. I could go on and on, but it was GREAT and I can't wait to come over again..

hi jouelle nice to see you are back .I hope everything went well with all you had to sort out.i have just said to my wife we have not heard of you .not seen david for a while.but the rugby season has finished.hope to speak to you soon .

Some sad news to report, Miss Emma Cunliffe, from Booths Brow, passed away yesterday morning, she was 99 years old. A very grand lady. Her family lived at Booths Brow farm for many years.

hi erwick that's sad news.she was a lovely lady I think most people from downall green remember the farm and her brothers.R.I.P. MISS CUNLIFFE.

R.I.P Miss Cunliffe.she was a neighbour of mine for years.

hi guys, heard the blog on a new proposed wigan world ? it,s on general if anyone cares to look at it . there,s a idea to charge 20 quid subscription fee to be on it ? .proposed by wigan taxi driver SIR BOB.

If you read all the post you will find that Brian has kicked that idea in the head.

good.

just want to wish everyone on here a happy Christmas and a happy new year.i know I'm a little early but will be to busy tomorrow.so all the best to everyone.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New year to you Bert and all your family.xx

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everybody .x

Merry Christmas everyone and all the best for the New Year

from Dougie and Mrs Dougie

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all my Downall Green friends and all Downall Greeners...

All the very best to ALL.

Happy Christmas to you all!

A question. How much has Bluebell Woods changed since we were kids, and does anyone have any photos of it as it is now?

I have just had a text from my Daughter in Spain to say that Downall Green is flooded.
Can anybody confirm this?