Wigan Album
Wigan Parsh Church
8 CommentsPhoto: Cyril Cowen
Item #: 6525
Great picture, Cyril! I remember your father from his days as Verger at the Parish Church and I last saw him in the 1960's. How long did he actually serve? I also went to school with David Cowen (presumably your brother) at the Bluecoat and later at the Thomas Linacre. I also 'crossed swords' in Court with 'Hoppy' when I was a constable in Wigan Police. Happy Days!!
Cyril, You must be John's brother. I was in the choir at the same time as him. I remember your father too. He once kindly gave me 2/6d after I'd sung a solo one Sunday.Didn't you live in the gatehouse to the rectory?
Mr Hopwood-Sayer was the longest serving coroner in the country, when I met him in '68.
I used to take him up to WRAEI, to view the deceased before the Coroners Court Inquest..
The guy in the forefront in the top hat, looks just like Charles Hawtrey, of the Carry On films.
I am so pleased the old photo picked up such rapid comments. Yes, I am JOHN Cowen's brother....he is 12 years younger than me...and we did live in the Rectory Lodge for many years. Dad was verger at Wigan Parish Church for nearly 60 (Yes.,.SIXTY) years. You will find his name on the "Verger's roll of honour" board in the Church, towards the back of the South aisle. John lives in Cheshire and he has 3 sons, all of whom have made very successful careers in music. Simon won the "Young Musician of the Year" Brass section a few years ago (trombone). The other two play in world famous orchestras...one in the Halle. Our sister Elsie still lives in Wigan...St Clements Road.
Sorry, Cyril. Time plays havoc with the memory. I did mean JOHN (we had five Davids in the class and I tried to make it six) I'm pleased to hear that he is well.
mr. minay was choirmaster at wigan parish church0
Certainly remember my father, a choirboy in Bill Minay's days, and taught the organ by him, speaking fondly of ' Billy Cowen' - someone the boys seemed to have a respect for!