South Yorkshire Times July 6, 1957

Sons of Wombwell

A School Picture of 50 Years Ago

Here is a picture which will arouse pleasant memories among the older end at Wombwell. It was taken over 50 years ago outside Barnsley Road Council School and many of those in the group are now taking a leading part in the business and professional life of the town.

Two immediately recognisable are Mr Irving Loy (extreme left back row), who is a chartered accountant in business at Barnsley and Mr Harry Bellamy, the Wombwell butcher. Old Wombwell readers may recognise others.

The teacher on the left is Miss Patty Allott. a sister of the late Mr A. E. Allott. J.P., a member of Wombwell U.D.C. and a vice-president of the Barnsley Co-operative Society. The name of the other teacher is not known. Compared with present-day standards these children appear to be overdressed. but fond mothers must have taken infinite patience with the adjustment of the lace collars which nowadays would hardly be tolerated.

It will be noted that many of the boys wear the popular sailor-suit, and that all have strong boots which were necessary on the rough roads of half a century ago.

The two women look distinctly modish. and the boater seems to harmonise fashionably with the setup.

Any chance of a revival of these dress designs?

Many of these boys fought in the  First World War and no doubt a number of them fell in action. We shall be glad to hear from people who recognise themselves in this interesting picture.