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St. Martin's Boys' School

The school was founded in 1883 and served the local community until it closed on 20 July, 1961. It stood on the site now occupied by the Salvation Army Citadel. Many boys who attended the school still live locally and have fond memories of their days at St. Martin's. As a result of this, a reunion was arranged to take place on 11 February, 2010. Appropriately, this took place in the St. Swithun's Institute, itself the venue for many plays and prize-giving ceremonies during the school's heyday.

Remembering the school


The school Blazer badge



The school song

You know a man who would keep his word
As bond through thick and thin
Who plays the game for the game's own sake,
And loses with a grin.

Doing his bit with spirit and grit
Whatever he may undertake
That's the kind of man St. Martin's boys are out to make.

Hear it ringing like a clarion
Live and learn your best to give.
Rich or poor, the goal's the same
Always try to play the game.

Things look black, then greet them with a smile.
Work or play make what you do worth while.

Life's duel, here's your rule
Keep the honour of the school.


Mr. E.M. Firth, Music Teacher.

Photographs from the time

The old school building with Old St. Martin's Church in the background

Demolition begins. The Salvation Army Citadel now stands on the site.

David Ellis studied at the school before joining the Royal Navy

The football team from the 1950/51 season
Back row left to right: Edgar Whiteley, unknown, unknown,
Bob Cook, Mr Baker
Middle row: Pat Goodwin, unknown, Bob Parry, unknown, unknown.
Front row: both unknown

Photographs from the Reunion

 
Gordon Collins and Jim Winwood

 
 
Ivor Band and Brian Hunt

 
Geoff Bennett and Bob Dance

Mike Vaughan (to the right)

John Dowty (to the right)

Geoff Bennett (to the right)

Jimmy Winwood, Gordon Collins and unknown