The photograph dates to 1950-54. High Beech, dating to Edwardian times, was built (in grounds of 20 acres) for Robert Carter, a successful London stockbroker. As a committed Christian, Carter deliberately chose a site for his home near South Nutfield Church. After the Second World War the house was too big for the elderly Carters, and in 1949 the house was sold to the London Police Court Mission to become a probation home, the idea of David Carter MBE, one of Robert's sons, who became the first Warden. The photograph clearly shows the lighter coloured brick, to the right of the house, which was the extension put on at this time to enable the house to cope with its new role. The photograph also shows the very tiny figures of David Carter (standing) and a group of boys (sitting) on the strip of grass, just to the left of the new front entrance. David Carter (1916-70) retired as Warden in 1954 - he subsequently founded Northease Manor School, near Lewes - but High Beech continued its work as a probation home until 1978. The house is now (I believe) back in private ownership.

(Tony Meredith, David Carter's son-in-law)

in 1957 i was sent to high beech for 1 year,at the time their was a waiting list as it was perceived as the best in the country. the staff were very fair and we were taught a number of skills, the recreation and outdoor activities were second to none, looking back on the experience it was one of the best periods of my life.

k dawson

I was sent there, I was a young teen teraway not a happy time. One year there then home to Kuala Lumpur. 15 years of age no job no hope. Joined the Army. Boys service. I did not get homesick I had got used to being away.

I WAS SENT THERE FOR A YEAR IN 1962-63 FIRST TIME AWAY FROM HOME.IT MADE ME STAND UP FOR MY SELF AND ALL STAFF WHERE VERY GOOD AND I OFTEN THINK OF MY TIME THERE. I THINK THE WARDEN WAS A MR WALKER.

Used to go High Beech as a young kid with my father (who worked for LPCM - later Rainer) for the cricket matches - the pitch fell victim to the M23. Still have a table leaf produced by the carpentry shop. Think a Mr Nicholls was on the the staff there.

I lived in a cottage in the grounds of High Beech, from birth in 1954 until I was 18 years old. My father was the horticultural instructor at the probation home at High Beech - Mr William Philip Smith. He also taught animal husbandry. It was, as I remember, a very successful school for young offenders and I still have letters of thanks that were sent to my father from boys who had worked under him and then made good in their lives. I remember there were several occasions, as I was growing up, that different young men would turn up, with a wife and family, to see my father and show him what a success they had made and to thank him for how he and the school had helped them. I remember that the home was run very strictly but there was fun too - like the making of guys for the huge bonfire and fireworks display on November 5th every year. The home taught the boys a trade - cooking, gardening, animal husbandry, woodwork - and above all self respect and respect for others. Such a pity that such places do not exist now.

I was here for 10 months during 1967. My name then was Kevin Patton. The warden was a Mr. Walker & his wife was the Matron. One of the staff, whom I remember as Peter Smith, lived in a cottage in the grounds with his wife. During that summer Mr. Smith moved to an approved school, i think in Buckinghamshire. All the boys were allowed a week on home-leave, but because i had no family i went with Mr. Smith & his wife for a week in their new home.I cant remember all the lads names but there was a Mick Jones-Leeds, Tony Wright-Kent, Zigmund Fialka-?,Dave Smith-Manchester,John ?-Somerset, & a John Hickling(?)-Nottingham. You had to stand up for yourself there, but it was still a pretty good 10months there. If I hadn't done wrong I would not have been there, but i certainly learned to stay on the straight & narrow after that.

1966-67 I was sent or take to high beech (Michael Wilde) I had a stoke in 2002 but can remember some parts like when I got there I think Mr Walker tuck me to Regate to buy some thing to wear in a Humber car I think changing my life for the good . Mike

My father was sent to High Beech in Oct 1957. He recently passed away and we found two photo's, a postcard of the home and a picture of him with another group of lads in Wales on a trip. His name was Edward Birch and he came from Stockport Cheshire. Would love to hear off anyone who knew him.

I was sent there in 1962, and remembering a good time.

My working career started here at High Beech in 1972. Terry Whedon was in charge at the time. I could say much about my time there, and “go on” for a long time, but all I will say is I have many, many, many fond memories of my time there, and I continued in the work at numerous other establishments until I retired nearly 2 years ago at the age of 67!

The first two months for hard the next 10 working on the business and then Mr Nichols and building the bungalow in the garden I enjoyed every minute anyone who remembers me please get in contact JJ

I was sent there in 1973. I remember building the roof on that bungalow, this was to be the start of my building career, which has now spanned 40 years. I also remember going to the Sovereign Youth Club, which Umberto would take us to. Fond memories of the place which set me on the straight and narrow.

In 1965 I lived in Sidcup, Kent. I was 16, and part of the 'Mod' scene. I stole money from Mum and Dad's Gas meter. It was December and I was remanded to a place in Mitcham, Surrey. I returned to Bromley Magistrates Court in January 1966 where I was sent to High Beeches for 1 year. At first it was hard, there were a few bullies there, but I stood up for myself and they left mae alone. After about one month I was given the chance to work in the carpentry shed, under the guidance of a master called 'Guv' Cook. He was my saviour, he taught me carpentry skills, painting and even French Polishing. In the summer myself and two other boys built a small sailing cruiser. We painted it all by hand, and with the excellent teaching of 'Guv' we learnt how to lay the layers of paint onto the hull. When it was complete, Mr Walker took us in his car, towing the boat down to Chichester Harbour, we helped launch the boat and helped sail it. After the saing, Mr Walker took us and treated us to Fish and Chips. I was eventually released almost two months early because of my good behaviour. After about 18 months from my release, I joined the Army, and attached to the 4th Batallion, the Queens's Regiment. One of the best decisions I ever made, I finally made my Mum & Dad proud. Thank you, High Beeches, Probation Home.

I stayed at High Beech around 1975-1976, and remember Umberto, really nice guy. Had a lot of memories specially our sing song as we used to drive past the police college coming back from the youth clubs.

I was there in the seventies i was there with sid jones and a few others great times with gov and umberto sovereign club can't remember name of other club we went to but fond memories been a builder for nay on fifty years built schools hospitals colleges houses all down to them putting me on right road

I was there for 9 months in 1977. Mr T and Iain Banner managed the gardens, Iain's wife Sue worked in the kitchen at first but became a full-time member of staff. Other staff members were Gordon and Alfie. I can't remember names of other staff members but they were all really great. There was so much going on like canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disco's, days out and loads more. I loved it. Some of the guys built a kestrel box and put it up in the grounds. I never got to see it occupied but I'm sure it did. I looked at a Google Earth image recently and the grounds are completely overgrown now! Some guys I hung about with were David LLoyd. Tim Rolls and Trevor Chandler - Portsmouth lads. Wonderful time

Umberto Regan was a school friend of mine, assuming that he is THE Umberto Regan, brother of Mary, that attended St Bonaventures School in West Ham. I remember him deciding on a career in social work. Umberto: drop me an email.

Hi Stephen, I don't recognize your name. I was here approx 1976-1978. I remember staff members Alfie, Sue, Lain, Gail ?, John Clark, Gov Cook. I was in a domitory of 6 and remember some names, Tony Perez, Ralph ?, John Gubby, Neil ?, Shamey Thomas, Whitfield Henry, John Reynolds. Any of these people out there?

Stephen Maughan I mentioned the song to my husband and he is sitting here singing it. Do you remember him?

Hi Patrick, I think I left about August, Sept time 1976. I remember some staff, Umberto, John, podgy and bald. Cannot remember the names of the rest. Like to hear from Umberto as he was a person I looked up to.

The photograph dates to 1950-54. High Beech, dating to Edwardian times, was built (in grounds of 20 acres) for Robert Carter, a successful London stockbroker. As a committed Christian, Carter deliberately chose a site for his home near South Nutfield Church. After the Second World War the house was too big for the elderly Carters, and in 1949 the house was sold to the London Police Court Mission to become a probation home, the idea of David Carter MBE, one of Robert's sons, who became the first Warden. The photograph clearly shows the lighter coloured brick, to the right of the house, which was the extension put on at this time to enable the house to cope with its new role. The photograph also shows the very tiny figures of David Carter (standing) and a group of boys (sitting) on the strip of grass, just to the left of the new front entrance. David Carter (1916-70) retired as Warden in 1954 - he subsequently founded Northease Manor School, near Lewes - but High Beech continued its work as a probation home until 1978. The house is now (I believe) back in private ownership.

(Tony Meredith, David Carter's son-in-law)

in 1957 i was sent to high beech for 1 year,at the time their was a waiting list as it was perceived as the best in the country. the staff were very fair and we were taught a number of skills, the recreation and outdoor activities were second to none, looking back on the experience it was one of the best periods of my life.

k dawson

I was sent there, I was a young teen teraway not a happy time. One year there then home to Kuala Lumpur. 15 years of age no job no hope. Joined the Army. Boys service. I did not get homesick I had got used to being away.

I WAS SENT THERE FOR A YEAR IN 1962-63 FIRST TIME AWAY FROM HOME.IT MADE ME STAND UP FOR MY SELF AND ALL STAFF WHERE VERY GOOD AND I OFTEN THINK OF MY TIME THERE. I THINK THE WARDEN WAS A MR WALKER.

Used to go High Beech as a young kid with my father (who worked for LPCM - later Rainer) for the cricket matches - the pitch fell victim to the M23. Still have a table leaf produced by the carpentry shop. Think a Mr Nicholls was on the the staff there.

I lived in a cottage in the grounds of High Beech, from birth in 1954 until I was 18 years old. My father was the horticultural instructor at the probation home at High Beech - Mr William Philip Smith. He also taught animal husbandry. It was, as I remember, a very successful school for young offenders and I still have letters of thanks that were sent to my father from boys who had worked under him and then made good in their lives. I remember there were several occasions, as I was growing up, that different young men would turn up, with a wife and family, to see my father and show him what a success they had made and to thank him for how he and the school had helped them. I remember that the home was run very strictly but there was fun too - like the making of guys for the huge bonfire and fireworks display on November 5th every year. The home taught the boys a trade - cooking, gardening, animal husbandry, woodwork - and above all self respect and respect for others. Such a pity that such places do not exist now.

I was here for 10 months during 1967. My name then was Kevin Patton. The warden was a Mr. Walker & his wife was the Matron. One of the staff, whom I remember as Peter Smith, lived in a cottage in the grounds with his wife. During that summer Mr. Smith moved to an approved school, i think in Buckinghamshire. All the boys were allowed a week on home-leave, but because i had no family i went with Mr. Smith & his wife for a week in their new home.I cant remember all the lads names but there was a Mick Jones-Leeds, Tony Wright-Kent, Zigmund Fialka-?,Dave Smith-Manchester,John ?-Somerset, & a John Hickling(?)-Nottingham. You had to stand up for yourself there, but it was still a pretty good 10months there. If I hadn't done wrong I would not have been there, but i certainly learned to stay on the straight & narrow after that.

1966-67 I was sent or take to high beech (Michael Wilde) I had a stoke in 2002 but can remember some parts like when I got there I think Mr Walker tuck me to Regate to buy some thing to wear in a Humber car I think changing my life for the good . Mike

My father was sent to High Beech in Oct 1957. He recently passed away and we found two photo's, a postcard of the home and a picture of him with another group of lads in Wales on a trip. His name was Edward Birch and he came from Stockport Cheshire. Would love to hear off anyone who knew him.

I was sent there in 1962, and remembering a good time.

My working career started here at High Beech in 1972. Terry Whedon was in charge at the time. I could say much about my time there, and “go on” for a long time, but all I will say is I have many, many, many fond memories of my time there, and I continued in the work at numerous other establishments until I retired nearly 2 years ago at the age of 67!

The first two months for hard the next 10 working on the business and then Mr Nichols and building the bungalow in the garden I enjoyed every minute anyone who remembers me please get in contact JJ

I was sent there in 1973. I remember building the roof on that bungalow, this was to be the start of my building career, which has now spanned 40 years. I also remember going to the Sovereign Youth Club, which Umberto would take us to. Fond memories of the place which set me on the straight and narrow.

In 1965 I lived in Sidcup, Kent. I was 16, and part of the 'Mod' scene. I stole money from Mum and Dad's Gas meter. It was December and I was remanded to a place in Mitcham, Surrey. I returned to Bromley Magistrates Court in January 1966 where I was sent to High Beeches for 1 year. At first it was hard, there were a few bullies there, but I stood up for myself and they left mae alone. After about one month I was given the chance to work in the carpentry shed, under the guidance of a master called 'Guv' Cook. He was my saviour, he taught me carpentry skills, painting and even French Polishing. In the summer myself and two other boys built a small sailing cruiser. We painted it all by hand, and with the excellent teaching of 'Guv' we learnt how to lay the layers of paint onto the hull. When it was complete, Mr Walker took us in his car, towing the boat down to Chichester Harbour, we helped launch the boat and helped sail it. After the saing, Mr Walker took us and treated us to Fish and Chips. I was eventually released almost two months early because of my good behaviour. After about 18 months from my release, I joined the Army, and attached to the 4th Batallion, the Queens's Regiment. One of the best decisions I ever made, I finally made my Mum & Dad proud. Thank you, High Beeches, Probation Home.

I stayed at High Beech around 1975-1976, and remember Umberto, really nice guy. Had a lot of memories specially our sing song as we used to drive past the police college coming back from the youth clubs.

I was there in the seventies i was there with sid jones and a few others great times with gov and umberto sovereign club can't remember name of other club we went to but fond memories been a builder for nay on fifty years built schools hospitals colleges houses all down to them putting me on right road

I was there for 9 months in 1977. Mr T and Iain Banner managed the gardens, Iain's wife Sue worked in the kitchen at first but became a full-time member of staff. Other staff members were Gordon and Alfie. I can't remember names of other staff members but they were all really great. There was so much going on like canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disco's, days out and loads more. I loved it. Some of the guys built a kestrel box and put it up in the grounds. I never got to see it occupied but I'm sure it did. I looked at a Google Earth image recently and the grounds are completely overgrown now! Some guys I hung about with were David LLoyd. Tim Rolls and Trevor Chandler - Portsmouth lads. Wonderful time

Umberto Regan was a school friend of mine, assuming that he is THE Umberto Regan, brother of Mary, that attended St Bonaventures School in West Ham. I remember him deciding on a career in social work. Umberto: drop me an email.

Hi Stephen, I don't recognize your name. I was here approx 1976-1978. I remember staff members Alfie, Sue, Lain, Gail ?, John Clark, Gov Cook. I was in a domitory of 6 and remember some names, Tony Perez, Ralph ?, John Gubby, Neil ?, Shamey Thomas, Whitfield Henry, John Reynolds. Any of these people out there?

Stephen Maughan I mentioned the song to my husband and he is sitting here singing it. Do you remember him?

Hi Patrick, I think I left about August, Sept time 1976. I remember some staff, Umberto, John, podgy and bald. Cannot remember the names of the rest. Like to hear from Umberto as he was a person I looked up to.

The photograph dates to 1950-54. High Beech, dating to Edwardian times, was built (in grounds of 20 acres) for Robert Carter, a successful London stockbroker. As a committed Christian, Carter deliberately chose a site for his home near South Nutfield Church. After the Second World War the house was too big for the elderly Carters, and in 1949 the house was sold to the London Police Court Mission to become a probation home, the idea of David Carter MBE, one of Robert's sons, who became the first Warden. The photograph clearly shows the lighter coloured brick, to the right of the house, which was the extension put on at this time to enable the house to cope with its new role. The photograph also shows the very tiny figures of David Carter (standing) and a group of boys (sitting) on the strip of grass, just to the left of the new front entrance. David Carter (1916-70) retired as Warden in 1954 - he subsequently founded Northease Manor School, near Lewes - but High Beech continued its work as a probation home until 1978. The house is now (I believe) back in private ownership.

(Tony Meredith, David Carter's son-in-law)

in 1957 i was sent to high beech for 1 year,at the time their was a waiting list as it was perceived as the best in the country. the staff were very fair and we were taught a number of skills, the recreation and outdoor activities were second to none, looking back on the experience it was one of the best periods of my life.

k dawson

I was sent there, I was a young teen teraway not a happy time. One year there then home to Kuala Lumpur. 15 years of age no job no hope. Joined the Army. Boys service. I did not get homesick I had got used to being away.

I WAS SENT THERE FOR A YEAR IN 1962-63 FIRST TIME AWAY FROM HOME.IT MADE ME STAND UP FOR MY SELF AND ALL STAFF WHERE VERY GOOD AND I OFTEN THINK OF MY TIME THERE. I THINK THE WARDEN WAS A MR WALKER.

Used to go High Beech as a young kid with my father (who worked for LPCM - later Rainer) for the cricket matches - the pitch fell victim to the M23. Still have a table leaf produced by the carpentry shop. Think a Mr Nicholls was on the the staff there.

I lived in a cottage in the grounds of High Beech, from birth in 1954 until I was 18 years old. My father was the horticultural instructor at the probation home at High Beech - Mr William Philip Smith. He also taught animal husbandry. It was, as I remember, a very successful school for young offenders and I still have letters of thanks that were sent to my father from boys who had worked under him and then made good in their lives. I remember there were several occasions, as I was growing up, that different young men would turn up, with a wife and family, to see my father and show him what a success they had made and to thank him for how he and the school had helped them. I remember that the home was run very strictly but there was fun too - like the making of guys for the huge bonfire and fireworks display on November 5th every year. The home taught the boys a trade - cooking, gardening, animal husbandry, woodwork - and above all self respect and respect for others. Such a pity that such places do not exist now.

I was here for 10 months during 1967. My name then was Kevin Patton. The warden was a Mr. Walker & his wife was the Matron. One of the staff, whom I remember as Peter Smith, lived in a cottage in the grounds with his wife. During that summer Mr. Smith moved to an approved school, i think in Buckinghamshire. All the boys were allowed a week on home-leave, but because i had no family i went with Mr. Smith & his wife for a week in their new home.I cant remember all the lads names but there was a Mick Jones-Leeds, Tony Wright-Kent, Zigmund Fialka-?,Dave Smith-Manchester,John ?-Somerset, & a John Hickling(?)-Nottingham. You had to stand up for yourself there, but it was still a pretty good 10months there. If I hadn't done wrong I would not have been there, but i certainly learned to stay on the straight & narrow after that.

1966-67 I was sent or take to high beech (Michael Wilde) I had a stoke in 2002 but can remember some parts like when I got there I think Mr Walker tuck me to Regate to buy some thing to wear in a Humber car I think changing my life for the good . Mike

My father was sent to High Beech in Oct 1957. He recently passed away and we found two photo's, a postcard of the home and a picture of him with another group of lads in Wales on a trip. His name was Edward Birch and he came from Stockport Cheshire. Would love to hear off anyone who knew him.

I was sent there in 1962, and remembering a good time.

My working career started here at High Beech in 1972. Terry Whedon was in charge at the time. I could say much about my time there, and “go on” for a long time, but all I will say is I have many, many, many fond memories of my time there, and I continued in the work at numerous other establishments until I retired nearly 2 years ago at the age of 67!

The first two months for hard the next 10 working on the business and then Mr Nichols and building the bungalow in the garden I enjoyed every minute anyone who remembers me please get in contact JJ

I was sent there in 1973. I remember building the roof on that bungalow, this was to be the start of my building career, which has now spanned 40 years. I also remember going to the Sovereign Youth Club, which Umberto would take us to. Fond memories of the place which set me on the straight and narrow.

In 1965 I lived in Sidcup, Kent. I was 16, and part of the 'Mod' scene. I stole money from Mum and Dad's Gas meter. It was December and I was remanded to a place in Mitcham, Surrey. I returned to Bromley Magistrates Court in January 1966 where I was sent to High Beeches for 1 year. At first it was hard, there were a few bullies there, but I stood up for myself and they left mae alone. After about one month I was given the chance to work in the carpentry shed, under the guidance of a master called 'Guv' Cook. He was my saviour, he taught me carpentry skills, painting and even French Polishing. In the summer myself and two other boys built a small sailing cruiser. We painted it all by hand, and with the excellent teaching of 'Guv' we learnt how to lay the layers of paint onto the hull. When it was complete, Mr Walker took us in his car, towing the boat down to Chichester Harbour, we helped launch the boat and helped sail it. After the saing, Mr Walker took us and treated us to Fish and Chips. I was eventually released almost two months early because of my good behaviour. After about 18 months from my release, I joined the Army, and attached to the 4th Batallion, the Queens's Regiment. One of the best decisions I ever made, I finally made my Mum & Dad proud. Thank you, High Beeches, Probation Home.

I stayed at High Beech around 1975-1976, and remember Umberto, really nice guy. Had a lot of memories specially our sing song as we used to drive past the police college coming back from the youth clubs.

I was there in the seventies i was there with sid jones and a few others great times with gov and umberto sovereign club can't remember name of other club we went to but fond memories been a builder for nay on fifty years built schools hospitals colleges houses all down to them putting me on right road

I was there for 9 months in 1977. Mr T and Iain Banner managed the gardens, Iain's wife Sue worked in the kitchen at first but became a full-time member of staff. Other staff members were Gordon and Alfie. I can't remember names of other staff members but they were all really great. There was so much going on like canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disco's, days out and loads more. I loved it. Some of the guys built a kestrel box and put it up in the grounds. I never got to see it occupied but I'm sure it did. I looked at a Google Earth image recently and the grounds are completely overgrown now! Some guys I hung about with were David LLoyd. Tim Rolls and Trevor Chandler - Portsmouth lads. Wonderful time

Umberto Regan was a school friend of mine, assuming that he is THE Umberto Regan, brother of Mary, that attended St Bonaventures School in West Ham. I remember him deciding on a career in social work. Umberto: drop me an email.

Hi Stephen, I don't recognize your name. I was here approx 1976-1978. I remember staff members Alfie, Sue, Lain, Gail ?, John Clark, Gov Cook. I was in a domitory of 6 and remember some names, Tony Perez, Ralph ?, John Gubby, Neil ?, Shamey Thomas, Whitfield Henry, John Reynolds. Any of these people out there?

Stephen Maughan I mentioned the song to my husband and he is sitting here singing it. Do you remember him?

Hi Patrick, I think I left about August, Sept time 1976. I remember some staff, Umberto, John, podgy and bald. Cannot remember the names of the rest. Like to hear from Umberto as he was a person I looked up to.

The photograph dates to 1950-54. High Beech, dating to Edwardian times, was built (in grounds of 20 acres) for Robert Carter, a successful London stockbroker. As a committed Christian, Carter deliberately chose a site for his home near South Nutfield Church. After the Second World War the house was too big for the elderly Carters, and in 1949 the house was sold to the London Police Court Mission to become a probation home, the idea of David Carter MBE, one of Robert's sons, who became the first Warden. The photograph clearly shows the lighter coloured brick, to the right of the house, which was the extension put on at this time to enable the house to cope with its new role. The photograph also shows the very tiny figures of David Carter (standing) and a group of boys (sitting) on the strip of grass, just to the left of the new front entrance. David Carter (1916-70) retired as Warden in 1954 - he subsequently founded Northease Manor School, near Lewes - but High Beech continued its work as a probation home until 1978. The house is now (I believe) back in private ownership.

(Tony Meredith, David Carter's son-in-law)

in 1957 i was sent to high beech for 1 year,at the time their was a waiting list as it was perceived as the best in the country. the staff were very fair and we were taught a number of skills, the recreation and outdoor activities were second to none, looking back on the experience it was one of the best periods of my life.

k dawson

I was sent there, I was a young teen teraway not a happy time. One year there then home to Kuala Lumpur. 15 years of age no job no hope. Joined the Army. Boys service. I did not get homesick I had got used to being away.

I WAS SENT THERE FOR A YEAR IN 1962-63 FIRST TIME AWAY FROM HOME.IT MADE ME STAND UP FOR MY SELF AND ALL STAFF WHERE VERY GOOD AND I OFTEN THINK OF MY TIME THERE. I THINK THE WARDEN WAS A MR WALKER.

Used to go High Beech as a young kid with my father (who worked for LPCM - later Rainer) for the cricket matches - the pitch fell victim to the M23. Still have a table leaf produced by the carpentry shop. Think a Mr Nicholls was on the the staff there.

I lived in a cottage in the grounds of High Beech, from birth in 1954 until I was 18 years old. My father was the horticultural instructor at the probation home at High Beech - Mr William Philip Smith. He also taught animal husbandry. It was, as I remember, a very successful school for young offenders and I still have letters of thanks that were sent to my father from boys who had worked under him and then made good in their lives. I remember there were several occasions, as I was growing up, that different young men would turn up, with a wife and family, to see my father and show him what a success they had made and to thank him for how he and the school had helped them. I remember that the home was run very strictly but there was fun too - like the making of guys for the huge bonfire and fireworks display on November 5th every year. The home taught the boys a trade - cooking, gardening, animal husbandry, woodwork - and above all self respect and respect for others. Such a pity that such places do not exist now.

I was here for 10 months during 1967. My name then was Kevin Patton. The warden was a Mr. Walker & his wife was the Matron. One of the staff, whom I remember as Peter Smith, lived in a cottage in the grounds with his wife. During that summer Mr. Smith moved to an approved school, i think in Buckinghamshire. All the boys were allowed a week on home-leave, but because i had no family i went with Mr. Smith & his wife for a week in their new home.I cant remember all the lads names but there was a Mick Jones-Leeds, Tony Wright-Kent, Zigmund Fialka-?,Dave Smith-Manchester,John ?-Somerset, & a John Hickling(?)-Nottingham. You had to stand up for yourself there, but it was still a pretty good 10months there. If I hadn't done wrong I would not have been there, but i certainly learned to stay on the straight & narrow after that.

1966-67 I was sent or take to high beech (Michael Wilde) I had a stoke in 2002 but can remember some parts like when I got there I think Mr Walker tuck me to Regate to buy some thing to wear in a Humber car I think changing my life for the good . Mike

My father was sent to High Beech in Oct 1957. He recently passed away and we found two photo's, a postcard of the home and a picture of him with another group of lads in Wales on a trip. His name was Edward Birch and he came from Stockport Cheshire. Would love to hear off anyone who knew him.

I was sent there in 1962, and remembering a good time.

My working career started here at High Beech in 1972. Terry Whedon was in charge at the time. I could say much about my time there, and “go on” for a long time, but all I will say is I have many, many, many fond memories of my time there, and I continued in the work at numerous other establishments until I retired nearly 2 years ago at the age of 67!

The first two months for hard the next 10 working on the business and then Mr Nichols and building the bungalow in the garden I enjoyed every minute anyone who remembers me please get in contact JJ

I was sent there in 1973. I remember building the roof on that bungalow, this was to be the start of my building career, which has now spanned 40 years. I also remember going to the Sovereign Youth Club, which Umberto would take us to. Fond memories of the place which set me on the straight and narrow.

In 1965 I lived in Sidcup, Kent. I was 16, and part of the 'Mod' scene. I stole money from Mum and Dad's Gas meter. It was December and I was remanded to a place in Mitcham, Surrey. I returned to Bromley Magistrates Court in January 1966 where I was sent to High Beeches for 1 year. At first it was hard, there were a few bullies there, but I stood up for myself and they left mae alone. After about one month I was given the chance to work in the carpentry shed, under the guidance of a master called 'Guv' Cook. He was my saviour, he taught me carpentry skills, painting and even French Polishing. In the summer myself and two other boys built a small sailing cruiser. We painted it all by hand, and with the excellent teaching of 'Guv' we learnt how to lay the layers of paint onto the hull. When it was complete, Mr Walker took us in his car, towing the boat down to Chichester Harbour, we helped launch the boat and helped sail it. After the saing, Mr Walker took us and treated us to Fish and Chips. I was eventually released almost two months early because of my good behaviour. After about 18 months from my release, I joined the Army, and attached to the 4th Batallion, the Queens's Regiment. One of the best decisions I ever made, I finally made my Mum & Dad proud. Thank you, High Beeches, Probation Home.

I stayed at High Beech around 1975-1976, and remember Umberto, really nice guy. Had a lot of memories specially our sing song as we used to drive past the police college coming back from the youth clubs.

I was there in the seventies i was there with sid jones and a few others great times with gov and umberto sovereign club can't remember name of other club we went to but fond memories been a builder for nay on fifty years built schools hospitals colleges houses all down to them putting me on right road

I was there for 9 months in 1977. Mr T and Iain Banner managed the gardens, Iain's wife Sue worked in the kitchen at first but became a full-time member of staff. Other staff members were Gordon and Alfie. I can't remember names of other staff members but they were all really great. There was so much going on like canoeing, camping, rock climbing, disco's, days out and loads more. I loved it. Some of the guys built a kestrel box and put it up in the grounds. I never got to see it occupied but I'm sure it did. I looked at a Google Earth image recently and the grounds are completely overgrown now! Some guys I hung about with were David LLoyd. Tim Rolls and Trevor Chandler - Portsmouth lads. Wonderful time

Umberto Regan was a school friend of mine, assuming that he is THE Umberto Regan, brother of Mary, that attended St Bonaventures School in West Ham. I remember him deciding on a career in social work. Umberto: drop me an email.

Hi Stephen, I don't recognize your name. I was here approx 1976-1978. I remember staff members Alfie, Sue, Lain, Gail ?, John Clark, Gov Cook. I was in a domitory of 6 and remember some names, Tony Perez, Ralph ?, John Gubby, Neil ?, Shamey Thomas, Whitfield Henry, John Reynolds. Any of these people out there?

Stephen Maughan I mentioned the song to my husband and he is sitting here singing it. Do you remember him?

Hi Patrick, I think I left about August, Sept time 1976. I remember some staff, Umberto, John, podgy and bald. Cannot remember the names of the rest. Like to hear from Umberto as he was a person I looked up to.

It s great to see the old school. I was there from 1944 - 1952.

My house was Canterbury. I would be delighted to get in touch with Maureen McLelland now I believe Mrs Phillips a graduate of Queen Elizabeth hospital in Birmingham.Maureen was one of the most honest people that I know.When marking her french Dictation she would not even allow me to add an accent!

I was at the Reigate County School for Girls from 1957 to 1963. I have just read a wonderful book by Gwen Southgate called Coin Street Chronicles. She was in the Honor Oak school when it shared the County school (before my time) and mentions air raids and moving into the caves. Do read this book: ISBN 978-0-5955-1670-4, available from Amazon.com. Helen B Goddard

I was at this beautiful school from 1944 to 1947 when I returned to

London. My friends were Gwen Burrows and Joan Batt. The head Mistress was Miss Aitken, and MissvWalters was the music mistress who introduced me to classical music for which I am ever grateful. I remember going down into the caves under the front lawn when the doodlebugs went over.

My mother was one of the 249 girls.

She struggles to remember that time now.

I will show her the photos.

Where would she have stayed?

I too was a pupil, and remember Joan Batt! Leslie Prince, and Juci Lazlo, Valerie Knight… Loved my time there, favourite teachers Miss Craighead, (history), Miss Newberry (German) yes, it was fun down the caves!

My mother Sylvia nee Lewer (aged 98) was one of the girls evacuated from Honor Oak school to Reigate. Around 1940 she then went to Wayclose in Wray Common Road for four years with some other girl pupils where they boarded. Her friends were Brenda Hickman, Helen Levy, Jean Peel, Gwen Lewendon. She too remembers the caves and did some of her matric exams and gym in them! They used to go for walks on Wray Common. She often talks about he time there! We would love it if anyone has any old photographs or anecdotes.

Allingham Road hasn't changed too much except for cars parked in peoples front gardens! The Post Office still stands but is closed. My vivid memories are of the Co-op (SSCS)I was always fascinated by the overhead wires which transported change to and from the cashier sitting in a wee booth in the far left corner of the shop.

I went to infant's school at the top of Allingham Road (St Lukes) they had no facilities for school dinners so we were marched down to the church hall (next to PO), each day for dinner.

Would anyone have pictures of Lucas's garage (opposite P.O.) They were (Are?) a South Park family, I went to school with Peter Lucas.

I started working at South Park Motors in 1975 under Mr Lucas and Mr Harlow and knew Peter also. I believe that prior to it becoming a garage it was a forge/wheelwrights does anyone have any knowledge of this.

I lived at 35 New North Road South Park and Peter Lucas at no 43 (I think). His father George was a friend of my Dad. Peter and I spent a lot of time together when we were growing up

My Aunt, Marjorie, a tiny bird-like lady, worked in the 1930s and '40s as a postal clerk in the Hood's Post Office, and lived with the family. It was No 42. I think she transferred to the West St Post Office in about 1947, which may have been when Hoods may have gave up the business. Is that when the Allingham Rd Post Office closed?

Worked there in the office around 1950 ish probably in that very office.

Does anyone know a Beryl Baker who also worked there?

My parents met at The Crusader insurance company. Douglas Young and Barbara Parker. They married in 1950. I have a photograph of them working in this office

Jennie Goddard, I think your parents attended our wedding as your father was a friend of my parents in law, Len Thompson and Mary. Len worked at Crusader all his working life, from the age of 14 until he died at the ge of 61. Our wedding was nearly 50 years ago at Reigate Methodist Church.

My sister worked at the crusader as a typist

Mandy Thompson Yes, I do think your parents in law were friends with my parents. I think Mary came to my wedding in 1988 and I think as a child I can remember going for Sunday lunch at their house in Reigate , East Walk?.Was their daughter called Jane? I have a feeling she liked riding horses maybe as think she once took me to some riding stables to see a horse she rode back in the 1970s.

My mother Iris Dale (maiden name) worked at Crusador Insurance as a Computer Analyst from 1961 to 1965. She is now 80 but I wondered if anyone remembered her and I could tell her some names? She remembers fondly the beautiful lawns where they would sometimes have lunch and solving problems in her work.

Hello

I was talking to a friend who has lived in the area since the 50s, and he mentioned that he used to frequent a lovely pub run by an old army officer (WW1) and his wife (British Intelligence, spoke 9 laguages etc). He described the location and I realised that I drive down Warwick Wold Road every day and wouldn't have dreamed that a pub once stood on the left as you cross the M25.

Are there any other photos / recollections of this pub?

Regards

Peter

I remember this pub as late as the early 70s when I went there with a friend who now lives in Lingfield.Also the devastation to the area when the M25 was built - I was a teenage objector!

Stephen Barnes, now living in Devon

My mates and I used to walk to this pub for our illicit drinking sessions aged 16/17. Lovely people. We used to play darts quite often but invariably hit the metal light shade that surronded the light illuminating the dartboard.

I bought a framed photo of The Spotted Cow pub at a boot sale. The boy in the pic (looks about 13) is apparently James Meadows. There is a man of about 60 with him. Another sign on the building is "Mellersh&Neale Ltd, Reigate Ales, Stout and Porter"

Parents often visited, taking myself, siblings and odd friends along in the late 50's/early 60's. We kids used to delight in feeding the ponies kept in a field beside the pub whose names were something like Penny and Tuppence.

My great-great grandparents, William and Eliza Packham, kept this pub during the last decades of the 19th Century.

I am afraid that I was one of the early staff on site just before the M25 started. I worked for the site laboratory which was temporarily set up in the nearby wooden army billets, that housed the Tristan Da Cunha evacuees in the 60's.We then moved to site offices in Rockshaw Road. Loved the area, steeped in history. Used to go for walks up the winding hill to the above pub that was sadly boarded up. Unfortunately I have no photo's.I was around 26 then and now I am back working on the M25 Clackets improvement scheme at the ripe age of 68. Just returned from night shift.What went wrong with my youthful ambitions.

I was born in Hilltop Lane, Chaldon, and my parents were "regulars" in "The Cow", as it was always referred to, from when they moved to Chaldon just after WW2. I followed on, keenly, as a teenager and was present on the last day, 28/02/72. The pub was drunk dry! The M25 contract started 2 days later, after the "leap day" and the first thing that went wrong was an electricity cable was ripped up cutting off the supply!

Molly Ford was the last licencee, ably assisted by her husband John. Molly took over from her mother, Kathleen Reilly. The old lady had a "wonky" eye and she could sit in her corner and you never knew if she was watching you or somebody else!

Chaldon Cricket Club members were ardent "supporters" and many an evening was spent playing darts, not always as well as we intended, whilst drinking the indifferent Ind Coope and Friary Meux ales.

Nostalgia isn't what it used to be!

My husband's Great Grandfather, Joshua Marchant, was listed as Licensed Victualler, Spotted Cow, Bletchingley on the 1881 Census. His (second) wife was Sarah and they had five children. Would be interested if anyone has any more information on this family! Many thanks..

I used to live about a half a mile from here. The landlords daughter was my best friend at school. The landlord and landlady at that time were the Fords. I spent a lot of time here (obviously not as a patron) the year was 1969. We moved on due to the construction of the M25

Our family was the last at The Warwick Arms. I am the eldest daughter of John & Molly Ford. It is nice to see nice comments about the pub and my parents and grandmother. I can remember collecting horse dung from the orchard and selling it to the customers, also we would pick blackberries and sell them too. My parents are no longer with us. One of my old school friend had sent me some photos of the old pub she had found on line so I thought I would try to find some and found this.

I used to go there often as a teenager. 1971, I had my own glass, and one night I told Molly it was my birthday and she asked how old was and I said 18. I had been going there for about two years, I cannot possibly say what she called me.

Molly and john where my great grandparents.

I am the youngest daughter of Molly and John Ford and remember Piers Evans! OMG what a blast from the past. I got to this site via my grandson! who is coming up 14 how the years go!!!

How very interesting, thank you everyone for the comments, We live at the bottom of Warwick Wold Road on the corner, it's called "Barnfield", I'm not sure if it was called that back then or not, I have done some tracing back and ther used to be 2 large metal Barns here where a house was later built here, we live in that house now, |I just wondered if anyone remembered these barns and what they may have been used for, I believe at one time they were used to repair the machine that was used to build the M23, it was rented out to "Highways" for these repairs, I want to upload some old pics I have manage to find of the barns that were hrre, but I cannot see the upload option whilst tying this..with my kindness...Grant

My family were staff to William Phillipps, Shipowner and owner of Reigate Lodge from the 1830's until at least the 1870's. He not only employed Robert Walter and his family in various capacities within the household, but he seemed to have helped others of the family find professional roles outside the household. I'm not sure if Phillipps had role in cricket, but my 1859 Robert' nephew and my great, great grandfather, Clarence Richard Walter got his first class debut in Reigate in 1859. Clarence later went to Wales and was pivotal in building what is now the Glanmorgan County Cricket Club. If anyone has any more information I'd love to hear it

The above mentioned Robert Walter was my great, great grandfather, born Blackheath. He was employed as coachman by William Phillipps of Reigate Lodge for many years, his wife Mary worked in the laundry there and it seems a daughter Anne was also employed as a servant at the lodge. My great grandfather Richard Walter,was the youngest child of Robert and Mary, he married Elizabeth Paterson in London, they had 8 children. Their 4th child, my grandmother Florii married Harry Pitt and immigrated to NZ in 1905. I would love to hear any more information of interest.

This was not a schoolroom in my time (1947-51) but always an assembly hall and a gym. The Trellis in the foreground dates the photo before 1947 certainly, because it wasn't there in 1947!

I agree with David who I should remember as I was with my brother David at Hillside from 1948-52. I would love to hear from David or anyone at the School at that time

Robert Aaron May, I'd like to renew contact with you, John Lessore