A SCHOOL reunion is being held for former pupils and staff of the old Sacred Heart School, which once stood on Lord Street, Westhoughton.

The school began life in 1876 as a weaving shed in Albion Street, Wingates, Westhoughton.

It was bought by the Catholic Church to serve as a mission for the small community of Roman Catholics who lived in and around Westhoughton.

On Monday, August 3, 1897 the mission started a school for the children of the parish. The first teacher was Miss McCormick and 41 pupils attended.

Over the years the mission became too small for the congregation and it was re-located

A site called the Syfield estate on Lord Street, Westhoughton, was acquired and work began on a new church and school which became Sacred Heart.

The foundation stone to the new school was laid on July 7, 1898, by Mrs M Lumsden. She remained head teacher at the school until 1902, but remained on the staff until 1929.

Mr Frank Dilworth, affectionately named as Dicky, was headteacher from 1929 to 1955.

Mr J B Abbot followed and was there from 1955 until his death in 1976. He was succeeded by Mr J Brierly who was later transferred to the new school on Central Drive.

Sacred Heart School was demolished in 1984 to make way for the new church and social centre.

The reunion for all ex-pupils and staff will be held at Greenfields Club, Wigan Road, Westhoughton, on September 29, 8pm.

Tickets are £1.50 on the door and include refreshments.

Further information is from F Gorringe 01942 813526, T Gorringe 01942 254484 or K Davies 01942 791277.