Please has anyone got any old photos of Moulescoomb Way? I used to live in Staplefield Drive and my father used to work at Allen West. I would love to see how it used to look. Thank you.

I was actually born in the front room, as it was known then, of 24 Chailey Road in 1941; youngest of 6 children. Attending Moulsecoomb Infant and Junior schools; then on to Stanmer Secondary Modern as it was known then (Falmer now); I remained there until I married in 1962. I strongly believe that the principles of manners and community spirit, albeit that good hidings came regularly to achieve them, have always been the good basic upbringing one could have.

Mary and George Roberts of 101 Moulsecoombe Way lived in Moulsecoombe for 40 years. I remember cutting down the trees in the top woods and dragging them home to keep warm. Home made soup, stone cold hands, wet wet clothes, snowing hard outside. The happy days of the 1960s - thank God for mum and dad!

Just like to say that I remember a George Roberts and would like to know if he remembers my Dad, Peter Kelly- a little Scotch guy?  We lived at 34 Ringmer Road. Anyway it'd be good to hear if anyone remembers us.

I am interested to see two letters from Ken Watkins.  I was Sheila Watkins before I married.  Any relation Ken?

I lived in Bevendean and went to Moulsecoomb Secondary School between 1959 and 1964. I'm sure it had the 'e' then although looking back it was originally spelt without the 'e'. Did we add the 'e' and drop it again at some point ?

Yes, I can remember having to change Moulsecoomb name at school. It was moulscoombe. Had to take (e) off of end and put it in the middle. I dont remember the date it got changed .I lived in Newick road till i was eight then moved to The Crescent. Left in 1973.My mum still lives there. Name was Dobson.

I lived in Moulsecoomb from 1962-1980, I lived in Birdham Road (107) and Ashurst Road (16).
These were the best days of my life, a real community spirit existed, which you sadly don't see anymore.

Elly Kelly - I remember your dad Jackie very well because I`m Scottish and knew him and you and your brothers very well. Always used Beatty Avenue Post Office because he didn`t like Tom in Barcombe Road. I think you`re thinking of a different George Roberts though - George and Laine lived in Barcombe with kids George, Sonia and John. Met him last Tuesday for first time in about 15 years. Hope you`re doing well and I`m still in 103 Newick Road if you ever want to visit.

My family lived at 117 Moulscoombe Way from 1938 until 1968. I was at school during the war, attending the infants school, as it was known then , followed by the junior school and then the senior boys school. In my final years at school I attended Stanmer Secondary Modern, as it was then, leaving school in 1953. Does anybody remember me or members of my family?

My maiden name was Osman and I lived at No. 27 Ringmer Road and attended Stanmer Secondary School. Although my memory is not great I do remember the happy childhood I spent in Moulsecoombe. The name Sheila Watson rings a bell - any relation to Pat and Diane?

We lived at 73 Barcombe Road from 1962 until 1976. I was 6 when we moved there and our name then was Francis. My mum's name is Pam and she worked at Allen West. My brothers went to school in Moulsecoomb, (Pete and Frank Francis). I have some great childhood memories from our time there especially of Wild Park where we used to make sleds out of old cardboard boxes and slide all the way down from the top...quite exhilarating not to mention highly dangerous! My cousin, Katrina, and her family (the Bonners) lived on Ringmer Road and my boyfriend, Peter Adelaide, also lived on Ringmer. Our next door neighbours were Mr and Mrs Bean on one side and Tim and Pauline Cheong on the other. When times were hard (as they most often were in those days!) my mum and Pauline would make dinners for both families putting together whatever they both had in their larders and fridges....community spirit was very strong back in that day! I was at boarding school most of the time I lived there so many peoples' names escape me but I do remember Wendy Saunders' family and Pat Golds and her family...also Betty Walls who lived several houses down on Barcombe Road. I'd love to hear from any of the 'Allen West girls' who remember my mum, Pam Francis (now Billings)...also anyone who remembers my brothers, Pete or Frank Francis.

I lived in Birdham Rd, Moulsecoomb 1961-1979 then moved to Portsmouth. I still visit there regularly having family there (I still can't get used to Allen West building gone). Just a few years ago I mentioned to a close friend that almost every family in Moulsecoomb had more than ten babies and a door was never locked! We also used each other a lot too: sugar, 10p for the gas meter, a fag etc. My friend was born in Portsmouth in 1958 and said she can never remember anyone here leaving a door unlocked and no more then three or four babies to a family. I really feel she missed out.

When my partner and I moved to Moulsecoomb 18 months ago we were a little worried due to the reputation it had gained. Now don't want to live anywhere else. Before moving to Halland Road we had lived mostly in and around the centre of the city for nearly 10 years. During that time I can truthfully say we barely new any of our neighbours, not even to say good morning to. Within a few weeks of moving on to the estate we knew everyone who lived around us. Everyone says good morning to each other and they always stop for a chat if they have time. The community feeling is just amazing. Moulsecoomb definitely no longer deserves its reputation. It is a good place to live.

I lived in Moulsecoomb from 1985 to 1989. My family and I then moved to Canada. I lived at 13 Nyetimber (not sure of the spelling) I was back to England in 2000 but didn't get the chance to visit my old neighbourhood. I do remember a little store down the road called Rays. My brother and I used to spend our pocket money there every Saturday. Can anyone tell me if it is still there?

Hi Ken, sorry for the long reply. My dad's name was Patrick Dowds. He worked at Allenwest. He's been dead for 13 yrs now though. We lived at 26 Staplefield Drive, my mum is still there.

I was so pleased to find your site. I left Moulescoomb in 1957 to live in London. My family (the Orams) moved into 36 Halland Road when it was newly built in 1947. There were no pavements at first and because of the hard winter still thawing we had to cross over everywhere on planks. I remember many families in Halland and Ashurst Roads and often wonder what happened to them. The Trigwells, Fogarty's, Challens, Johnsons, Sivyers, Ballards, Cooks, Bolingbrookes, Harrises, Swallows and Edwards. I was almost 7 when we moved there and nearly 18 when I left. I went to Moulsecoomb Juniors and what a wonderful school that was. How many of you remember Mrs Horton, Mr Burroughs, Mr Kitchen and Miss Tidy? Someone wrote about sliding down the Wild Park on cardboard. It was really hair-raising if you could have a go on a tin tray. You had to be careful not to go into the back of the tuckshop! Do any of you remember the bluebells in Stanmer Park woods? And the two horses Roman and Gipsy in the field at the bottom of Halland Road?

I lived in Goodwood Way from 1938-1959 I went to
Moulscoomb Iinfant, Junior and Secondary Schools until I left in July 1951.

Hi Jimmy Anderson. Do you remember me Tony Dyke and my brothers John and Chris? I remember your Mum and Dad (Mary and Dave). This page has stirred up a lot of memories for me. I am now living in Western Australia and would love to hear from anyone who remembers me.

I lived in Selba Drive from 1960-1983, went to Moulsecoomb Infants, Juniors and then Falmer High. Parents still live in Selba Drive so I regularly visit but how things have changed. There are not many of the old faces left now. One of the main things I remember was during the school summer holidays when the corn was cut, we would spend hours making haystacks and camps. This is an excellent site to read everyone's memories.

Funny I have just come across this site and the last person to leave a message is my sister. We're also related to Mary and George Roberts mentioned by Clive Roberts. Mary was my Grandad's sister, I also work with Mary their daughter. Dad was recently given some photographs of Selba Drive when the bungalows were being built, looked so different. Dad actually worked on the bungalows. Loads of memories of Moulsecoomb/Falmer schools.

Hi Karen and Leslie, I lived at 69 Staplefield Drive, just at the entrance to Selba Drive. I well remember the houses being built. We would play a lot of cricket and rounders in the field at the end, and hide and seek in the gorse bushes close by. I don't remember either of you though, what number did you live at?

Hi Karen and Leslie, just wondering if you had a sister called Alice. She married a man called John Howe and lived at number 28 Staplefield Drive. She now lives in Bevendean.

Reading Joan Oram's comment about the Junior School, I'm compelled to put my own little piece! It was Miss Horton, the "returned unopened sort" and she had her favourite, a Mr Hardart, who she would summon to give any of us the strap. He was an expert and, depending on the strength of the punishment required, would either cause the strap to land squarely on the palm of the hand or wrap round the hand and punish the back as much as the front. A confidential whisper from the woman in question would ensure what sort. She would sort out a high chair with her own particular cushion on it for him to sit on when he would occasionally address the class - and I've never really known what for or why.  I touched the red knob situated on the end of a vertical metal rod attached to the front wing of her car one day. I didn't know at the time what it was for but now realise it was a kerb proximity indicator. I got the strap. She had her own special garage at the top of the school path adjoining the Junior School and both car and garage were forbidden territory.  I'll maybe report on some of my experiences at school in the 1930s some time later.

Just realised that Sheila Winter was Sheila Watkins. I'm sure you'll remember the Spicers, Sheila! Nice to know you've had the foresight to place your memories on paper. I think I'm right in recalling you being an inhabitant of Chailey Road?

Does anybody remember a Nellie and a Herbert Saunders at 101 Moulsecoomb way in th 1940's /1950's (must have been before Mary and George Roberts lived there)? Trying to find some information about Herbert.

I don't know about Nellie and Herbert but I can remember what might have been their two sons (but not their names!) and the older one of the two was a strong believer in communism even at an age young enough for him to be still at school. The phrase "unity is strength" was something I heard from him!

Ron Spicer may well be right that Mrs Horton was in fact a "Miss". However I was in her class, 4A, which in my time there she was always known as Mrs this was in the year 1950/1 and my brother the same in 1954/5. He is the one who remembers her wielding of the tawse, I don't remember the master you mention Ron, seems you might have been there a bit before me but when you reminded me I do remember her garage. Melanie asks about a couple called Saunders, did they have a daughter called Rosemary? Was 101 on the left hand side going up Moulescoomb Way from Halland Road? If so my sister was freindly with her and as she still lives in the Brighton area might know something.

Hi Joan. Yep, I'm right alright! However, there's room for the perceived discrepancy to be accounted for. You're right about my being there before you. I was born in the 1920s. I often looked back at my education from those times and realised when WWII came along and I experienced the Fleet Air Arm that I was suddenly being really educated. An organisation that used all the means possible, whether crude, amusing or even hands on stuff to impart necessary information. Also, any sign of poverty background or other adverse circumstances was totally ignored. Learning was a pleasant procedure! The only possible similarity which had a purposeful meaning behind it, was a quick elocution period which was deemed necessary so that everyone understood  communications. Those Horton years were unpleasant to say the least; and psychologically so bad. Elsewhere in these forums you can note that I had been placed at school over a year before my proper time, even though I was in an 'A' stream class. Oh, the wonderful taste of success!

Val Aspinall, did you have a relative who became Brighton bobby?

I was born at no 5 Hillside and lived there until I was married in 1962. I had 5 brothers Arthur, Bill, Peter, Roy, Les and one Sister Pat. I had a very happy childhood living in Hillside and went to Moulsecoomb School. Anyone remember me?

Hi Ron Spicer and Joyce. How well I remember you and, as you will know, Rosa and I are still best friends after many years - over 75 to be exact - friendships don't seem to last as long these days. You were deemed very lucky to live next door to all those sweets! Happy to be in touch after all these years. Moulsecoomb Memories was a pleasure to write.
You got it right, Ron, I was once Sheila Watkins of 16 Chailey Road. Happy days. Nice to hear from you. Regards to Joyce who I remember well. Great to read all your
Moulsecoomb memories,there aren't too many of us left now.

Hi Karen Fulkner,
I've just noticed you lived at Selba Drive. Did you know someone called Sheila Gunn? Her husband Dennis got killed by a car near the main road. Thank you

Haha, I lived at 105 Moulsecoomb Way from 1975 to 1981 and certainly remember my old neighbours Mary and George Roberts. They wouldn't give us our ball back and we used to have to sneak over the fence when we thought the coast was clear. Does anybody remember the adventure playground just up the road? Such happy childhood memories really considering that times were indeed hard especially in the winter. Perhaps it's because I'm no longer a child but I do miss those times and I wonder if my kids will look back in the same way that I do. I live nearer Peacehaven now but it's just not the same.

I lived at 27 Ringmer Road and went to Moulsecoomb Jnr School and then onto Stanmer Secondary Modern. I remember the names Valerie Aspinall, Sheila Watkins (and is Ron Spicer any relation to my uncle Alf Spicer?). Does Sheila Watkins know my old school chum Pat Rogers and her sister Diane Rogers? I also remember Ivor Williams living few doors up from us.

Hi Mary, if you have a peek into the Newick Road entries, you'll see there's answers to your question. Is Laurence still alive? (Hope I spelled it correctly!). You had two brothers?

Hi Ron. Found the Newick Road info very interesting! I believe Lawrence passed away some few years ago. My dad was Ernie (or 'Tosh' as he was better known) and Lawrence was his brother. Recently reunited with Lawrence and Tosh's brother Francis. I can remember as a child visiting Auntie Rosa and Uncle Alf (via the Cinder Path). Oh those glorious happy days.

You know, Mary, these discovering comments of everyone, whilst not seemingly so interesting to some at the present time, will be looked upon with much more interest in the years to come, long after we've departed Local history in its proper perspective. Whilst places and buildings make historical record, it's the people who are the real history on where and how they lived. I easily remember Ernie. Lawrence was of my age and Ernie, I think was a little older? Sorry to note that Lawrence has departed. Nice to note your comments.

I think you are so right in what you say Ron, however I for one have been so interested in reading your Newick Road entries - it took me back to my childhood and got the old grey matter going. I was so pleased to hear that you remembered my Dad, who unfortunately is no longer with us. Incidentally, I have one sister, Gillian, who still lives in the Brighton area, and a brother, Kevin, who lives in nearby Lewes. PS: I think it's great that us 'oldies' are able to surf the net and come up with these wonderful sites to share our memories!

I don't know why I didn't mention Francis because we knew each other and I wish him well. Your remarks have got me thinking that it could possibly be arranged for a meeting of all the contributors to this MyB&H site at some time in the future, especially the oldies.

My Dad lived in Newick Road in the 1940s with his brother and sister. During World War 2, the Canadian soldiers used Stanmer Park as a training ground before the D-Day invasion. My Dad's sister who was older, met a Canadian soldier who's name was Pete. My Dad and his brother still remember the day when Pete who was dating my Dad's sister came down Newick Road in a Sherman tank to see his future wife. They got married after the war and she moved to Canada.

When I was young I was always at my nan and grandad's house in Newick Road. Thier names were Sam and Elizabeth Goble. Sadly, they are not here any more but I do occasionally drive past their house but the garden is in a sad state. My grandad loved growing roses, but the last time I drove past there was a dumped car in the garden.

Hi Dave - Your dad or his brother will be roughly my age because I can also remember a young lad with the surname of Goble at Moulsecoomb School. He lived in a house near the southern end of Newick Road. In those days 'everyone knew everyone'!

Hello Tony Dyke. I remember you. I am Martin Phillips. You and I were friends with Robin Holmes. Do you remember Angela Harris, we both fancied her?  She was a bit too hot for me, a young lady too far advanced for a 13 year old like me. How did you manage the swim to Western Australia? martin.phillips97@ntlworld.com

I used to live at number 2 Chailey Road. I lived there from when I was born in 1955 until about 1964. My mum was called Rita Akehurst, her brothers Brian and Raymond lived there as well as the youngest sister Pamela. My nan was Rose Akehurst. I remember a lady called Bessie Golds used to look after me when my mum was working at Allen West. My mum's mate was called Iris and lived a few doors down and I remember the Buttons lived opposite us. Even though I was a child I remember it well. if anyone remembers any of the people I've mentioned please email me .mcnaugshr@aol.com

Just a quick message to Russell Webb and Ivor Williams; do you remember the Edmonds at 25 chailey road? It would be great to hear from both of you. My email address is laurieedmonds@hotmail.com

I was born at 141 Ringmer Road in 1945 and lived there until 1960. My Nan and Granddad were Dorothy and Charles Capon. I went to Moulsecombe Juniors and then onto Stanmer. I remember Miss King and Mrs Horton.
At Stanmer, I was in Mr. Gough's class, then Mr. Davy's then Miss Bellairs-Cox. Does anyone remember Mr. Lucy the Spanish teacher?
I too, used to slide down the hill on cardboard in the Wild Park, my friends were Linda and Rita Foster. I remember the lovely ld ice lollies we bought from Woolvens. Every Saturday I would go with my Nan to Larters the butcher in Newick Road. I also remember Maureen Funnell, she lived in Chailey Rd.
They were very happy times!

Just came across this site, nice for nostalgia. I went to Moulsecomb schools from 1958-69.  I lived at 41 The Highway and my wife, Linda Early, lived in Selba Drive. Her dad was one of the organisers of the self-build there. Some people may remember me by the name of Minnie Marlow. Would like to hear from old classmates.

Susan Kent - did you go out with Geoffrey Knight when you were at Stanmer? I am still in touch with Geoff and will pass your comments onto him.

Hello everybody. I am trying to find info on Moulsecoomb from the period when the Rogers-Tillstone family owned a large part of the area in the 18th century. It is a bit difficult for me to get there from Australia so any help would be appreciated.

Hello Peter Gregory, yes I did go out with Geoffrey Knight when I was at Stanmer. We were on the Belgian school trip when Geoff asked me out! He walked me home from school every night! Say hello to him for me.

I have very fond memories of Moulsecoomb. I lived in Wild Park Close - one of the houses on the Bates Estate overlooking Moulsecoomb School which I attended during the early 1950s. I particularly remember Philip and Tony Bastable who were sons of the school caretaker who lived in the cottage in the right hand corner of the school field facing the main road. We were great friends and often played football or cricket in that field after school.

I have just got back onto this web site after a long time. I am overwhelmed by the info from Karen and Lesley Fulker. I think it's still early days after losing my dad, George Roberts. who passed away on the 25 June 2008. Sad to say, my much loved uncle, Bill Fulker also passed away on the 1st  April 2008. So lovely to read your comments about people of Moulsecoomb. Wishing all at Moulsecoomb a very happy New Year for 2009.

My brother George and Laine did live in Barcombe Rd, and he also has a son called George, so Hamish Mackenzie you are right. George Roberts and Mary Roberts lived at 101 Moulsecoombe Way. Joan Oram, my sister Rosemary remebers you too, and sends her kind regards. Lynette, you can have your ball back now, but don't do it again. It's nice that you remembered my parents

Thank you Clive for passing on Rosemary's regards. Please tell her I will tell Rita, she will be so pleased to hear, she often speaks of her and your Mum and Dad.

I grew up in Moulsecoomb with my parents, George and Margaret, and my siblings Teresa, Steve, Graham and Wendy. Unfortunately my mum passed away in 1977. We lived at 42 The Crescent. My dad had some motor-cycle friends that were always at our home. I was wondering if any of these people, or anyone that may have lived in our street, have any photos of our house in the Crescent? Many thanks

Hi Clive. My name is Victor Fulker and we are cousins. My dad was your mum's brother, Thomas (Tucker) Fulker.

Lynette. Yes, I remember the adventure playground very clearly. 1960s. Well I remember mostly the broken bodies from the pully ride:-), bonfires daily where dinner was cooked, burnt baked potatoes. Anyone remember Percy and Kate Knight of 49 Chailey Road? 1920s till 1964. Children Percy, Arthur, James, Gwen and Kathleen.

I lived at 58, Barcombe Road from 1957 - 69, and have been trying to trace my oldest of friends Michael Pelling (No. 66) on the internet for years. Other good friends included Ronnie Smith (61) and Angela (Angie) Sawyer (60). I have great memories of spending hours playing in the Wild Park, making dens amongst the trees, sliding down the slopes on cardboard and (sadly) raiding bird nest for eggs. Who remembers Mr Cosham?

Hi everyone. I remember the Watkins of 101 Birdham. We, the Golbys, my Mum, sisters Kit, Pat, Betty and brother Alf, lived at 104. I think next to you was the Henlys whose daughter Mary was married to a Scandinavian guy who owned an Armstrong Siddley motorcar. We lived next to Mr and Mrs Wright and their daughter Beryl and her twin brother "Cocker" who died very young. I also remember "Red Saunders" selling the Daily Worker and the two Andrews boys from Moulsecoomb Way. I can still with a bit of effort remember about 80% of the people in our end of the street. Have contacted a few through internet sites. I think the spelling of the area has always had two ways - 'Moulsecoomb' or the older 'Moulscoombe' - but I coould be wrong. Good luck to you all.

I just came across this site by accident and am happy to add my bit. I lived at 90, Staplefield Drive from 1955 until I joined the army in 1970. I have since lived in Northern Ireland for almost 35 years after marrying there. My next door neighbours were the Drivers and I can recall the Clarke family a few doors up. I went to Moulsecoomb primary and juniors and can remember the headmistress Miss King - an aged lady with a King Charles spaniel and a delight in administering the strap to naughty children's hands. Mr Gallagher was teacher of 4a and very popular because we got to play football on the tennis courts. Can anyone remember playing softball every lunch time on the school field, or racing dinky toy racing cars on the playground? I can also recall cricket in the road at the top of the hill at Staplefield Drive using the lampost as wicket or relay races around the block. We spent long summer nights in the cornfields at the back, building straw houses and raiding rivals with mock battles. I was one of the first to join the 67 centre when it opened (coincidentally in 1967) where we played table tennis and snooker or on the pinball machine. They had dances there in 1967/8 with local groups The Motion and The Shapes and Sizes as frequent players. I have a thousand memories of the estate and would be happy to ramble on if only space allowed. I went to Brighton and Hove Grammar at 11 and had to suffer the indignation of wearing the awful school cap in an estate where school caps were not that common. I had so many friends back then that I can recall and I would love to hear from anyone who remembers me or can add to my recollections. Ian Smith

Calling Bob Goldy and George Roberts .... Hi Bob, that spelling of Moulsecoomb. When I was in the Junior Mixed School in the 1930s we were taught that the Southdown Motor Omnibus Company (yes that was also properly described!) had spelt the name wrongly. We were to always remember that it should be spelled with a double "o" and no "e" on the end. George - I'm fairly sure that the George Roberts you mention lived at Ringmer Road and had a son named John who played the harmonica beautifully. George loved his mild gamble on the gee-gees and when I worked at 'Arthur H Cox & Co' in Lewes Road, I used to make hair oil for him in the WW2 years when it couldn't normally be obtained. I think George also played the harmonica but the memory plays tricks at times.

Hi Ian. I lived across the road from you at 68 Staplefield. My sister was very friendly with your sister Alexis. We had lots of fun in the cornfields and gorse bushes. We used to put 3d bangers in the cow patties.

Nice to hear how the estate was and very well set out it is. I know John at 26 Staplefield Drive and have lived in Staplefield for 32 years and still do. I know quite a few people that currently live on the estate but never knew it was built in 1930s. Be nice to hear from anyone who knows me.

Ian - I remember Miss King well, and I still have a photo of her somewhere with that King Charles cat on her lap when we had a school trip to the Pestalozzi Village. Mr Gallagher was great. He knew my mum, and during the 11 plus exam, he would walk past me with the answers written on a piece of paper - making sure I got them right. What a character. I certainly remember the softball, I loved it, although I remember one kid getting knocked out when a ball hit him in the face. Do you remember the school clinic and the embarrassing examination the boys had to go through (by a lady doctor - horror!). Worst though was the school dentist. He had black teeth, and on one occasion I was in so much pain when he did one of my fillings, I leaped in the chair - the bloke hit me and told me to shut up. We took it because we were men in those days (age 8).

My name is Gordon Salvage. I lived at 33 Newick Road where I was born in 1943 and left in 1964 when I got married. I think it was a great place to grow up just after the war, I remember that the only family to have a car in Newick Road were called Driver. Opposite us lived the Dyke family and their son Freddy was a mate. My other friends were Colin Mills, Barry Blaker and Tommy Allsop. It would be good to hear from anyone that lived in that area of Newick Road.

My name is Eric James and I lived at 3 Newick Road from about 1930. I had two younger brothers Fred and Les and we went to the local Moulsecoomb schools, attended Sunday School at St George's Hall, joined the Choir at St Andrew's Church and two of us worked for a short time at Allen West. My brother Les has passed away. I am 85 and my brother Fred is 79.

Hi Eric. I'm fairly surely reckoning that it is you and your brother I've mentioned in my Newick Road entries. You'll have to forgive the wrong names I attributed to you all. Got to be the same family because I remembered the location of the house with certainty, even if I got the actual number wrong! Well, nine year old children aren't going to remember everything by the time they get to 82. Remember the blue painted 'four wheeler' made by your dad? Look it up - you'll have a smile.

 Hi Stuart Andrews, I'm John's sister Bridget, I lived at 26 Staplefield Drive. My dad died 15 yrs ago and my mum died Christmas eve 2008, maybe you remember them as well. Your name sounds familiar.

Hi Steve(Tugwell) I am afraid you were not living opposite me at 90 when you were at 68. I think 68 is around the back on the corner. I do remember a Colin Tugwell who lived around there but I heard he went to the USA. I lived opposite the Colbys and Fairhalls. sorry but I don't have a sister Alexis either.

Hi Gordon, just a thought, I went to school in Moulsecoomb from 1957 to 1963 and I remember the name John Salvage from then. Any relation? Also thanks for your comments Kevin although sadly your name is not familiar; best wishes to you and anyone who knew me.

I lived at 3 Ashurst Road from 1958 to 1970, I had lots of friends in the area and would like to contact them. I remember Sandy Colby, and Nigel Marston, both of Staplefield Drive. Is there anyone from Eggington, Lucraft Road about that time?

Hello, does any one have any photos or literature I could look at of when Selba Drive or Wheatfield Way were being built?  I grew up in the area and would like to know more. Thank you.

I lived at 30 Moulsecoomb Way from 1955 to about 1975 with my mum dad and family. I remember the adventure play ground with the pulley and the rope swing. We used to get a student come up to help with us kids. l think his name was Dave Jones. The Wild Park was fun too. We were like monkeys swinging from tree to tree till you got to the bottom. There were more trees then. My neighbours were the Cuttings and the other side were the Palmers. Does any one remember the Nye family?

I lived at 1 Lucraft Rd with Mum, Dad, Mark, Russ and Darren. Moved to Western Australia in 1977. I can still remember the woods at the back of us and Falmer Pond in the summer. Never been back to the UK because I think things have changed too much and I like to remember the way things used to be but such happy times I'd never change for the world.

Hi, we lived in Barcoombe Road, number 21. I had the best days there. Our name was Robinson, my dad Ronnie and mum Joyce . We had Pam Spain on one side and the Averys on the other. On the Newick Road corner was my aunt and Uncle Ken and Hellen Robinson. I remember the head. I think she was the head from the infants, Mrs Patterson. It will be good to hear from anyone there.

Anybody who knew the Robinsons in Barcoombe Road please get in touch. I would love to hear from you. Does anyone remember the doctor's surgery in Barcoombe Road and Dougie the grocers? The doctor was Dr Hacking. Lovely memories. This is a brilliant site.

Hi, I went to Stanmer in 1960. I remember the names David Butler, John Shermer, Michel Mckewin, and the name Barnett. I was Brian Robinson known as Robbo. I remember all the teachers, if you were there same time I would love to hear from you .

Hi Sue. Did your dad have a twin brother, Ken? It does seem as if the Robinsons that I knew lived in that part of Barcoombe Road which led into Newick Road. I'm writing of way before WWII days. If the connection is right, I can recall a few points for you, Sue. Everyone knew everyone in those days so I cannot think it isn't the same Robinson provided we are both referring to the same era.

Hello 'Anonymous'. When were you there? We wernt there before the war but yes my dad had a brother Ken who lived on the corner of Newick Road like you said and we lived on the corner of Barcoombe Road. Do you know anymore? What's your name if you dont mind me asking? Thanks.

Martin Nye: Yes, I was friends with your Heather, and the Cutting sisters. And next to them was Angela Wallis. I would like to know how Heather is now. And I know you had another sister but can't remember her name - was it Sue? You can find me on facebook: thewares103104@googlemail.com

The name Geoff Glover rings a bell. I think the one I knew would be about 56 now and was a hairdresser then, but I might be wrong. Does anyone know of Gary Walker from Moulsecoomb Way? We were best mates until around 1976 when I left Brighton. His parents were Ken and Rene and they lived at the top of the hill on the left at the bend. Gary worked on the Southdown buses with me but we lost touch. Someone mentioned Nigel Marsden at Staplefield. I knew him and his older brother Kevin as well as his neighbour Ian Kraft. I often wonder what became of everyone.

Hi. I knew Lesley Walker but that's when they moved to Barcombe Road. He had an older brother and sister and I know they lived in Moulsecoombe somewhere before Barcombe Road. Thanks Sue

Hi Martin Nye, I think you have the wrong Robinson. Yes, we lived in the same place but I know no Heather in our family. What a coincidence though.

I love all these memories. Does anybody know the Wakefields from Stonecross road?

Hi Sue, not me but I knew a John Robinson at the begining of Birdham Road.

I thought I might throw a few more names in the pot to see if anyone knows them. I lived in Staplefield from 1955 until 1970 and my parents were there until around 1982. I was at Moulsecoomb infants and juniors from 1957 until 1963. So here goes with some names from that era. The Hargies were a well known family. I knew a Christopher Rea and a Christopher Smith. I also remember Nick Castles. We used to go to the ice rink and Top Rank suite around late sixties. He was about 6' 5 and had an even bigger brother George. I went to a boxing club in Moulsecoomb Secondary run by a Ronnie Walls. Around 1968 everyone my age seemed to have Lambrettas or Vespas and I used to ride around with Keith and Philip Driver and Chris Coomber from Birdham. I was also friendly with Colin Tugwell, Glen Lowrie and Dave Potter. I also remember a Michael and John Lighton and all the Clarkes from Staplefield, John, Alan, Bobby and Janice. I haven't seen any of these people mentioned since around 1972. Does any of these names ring a bell with anyone here. Incidentally, does anyone recall the old scout hut next to the 67 centre? I used to go there around 1965 and they had a youth club night on a friday from 7pm to 9pm. You could buy biscuits for a penny and play table tennis. The 67 centre was a real step up with proper snooker tables and pinball machines as well as TV and weights. I remember a Mick Mansell from there and a guy called Duggie who had had a bad motorcycle accident some years earler. Sorry to ramble a bit but as I write I find distant memories come drifting back and if anyone is interested please read - if not disregard. Moulsecoomb always had a bit of a reputation for being a tough area by outsiders but living there I never noticed. There wasn't really many with money and there was certainly a lot of people who were very poor and by some standards I wasn't too badly off but at least I was out playing sports with friends and not stuck in front of a playstation or TV as kids all seem to be today. Did anyone remember hiding around the corner outside the off licence at the Bevendean whilst getting an adult to buy us 13 year olds a bottle of cider? Must go now but if required I can return with another stream of consciousness of memories from a bygone age.

Fond memories? Yeah, in a way fond, but my goodness all we did was fight. I had more fights living there for eight years than the rest of my life. My parents couldn't stand the place and took us away. Only one year at Falmer, was sad for me going to that *bleep* school Varndean instead - first day there the teacher told everyone I was from Moulsecoomb and within ten minutes I knocked down a boy that wasn't happy to meet 'my kind'. We used to throw bricks at each other for goodness sakes. Crime central for me. Still, the Wild Park was great, really good memories there. I've been living in Japan the past 12 years.

Mousecoombe was the place to live and grow up in.

Hi Sue - you wrote: Hello 'Anonymous'. When were you there? We weren't there before the war but yes my dad had a brother Ken who lived on the corner of Newick Road like you said and we lived on the corner of Barcoombe Road. Do you know anymore? What's your name if you dont mind me asking? Thanks. By Sue (22/01/2010) I wrote that and didn't realise my identity had been missed out; and of course, the Mod would have entered the input under anonymous rather than leave it out. I can't surely recall your dad's brother's name but it mIght have been Ray? They lived opposite the local greengrocer, Mr Prior, a one legged man, having been severely injured in WWI. He had a pony and cart to deliver all the greengroceries which would halt at all the necessary places along the roads without being told to for residents to come out and buy. A little animal with a friendly nature, accepting titbits of any sort from the kids and grownups alike. With the load that it pulled, it surely was a gallant worker. The Robinson twins were carpenters by trade so far as I can remember and I saw them in various places, building houses. They attended the same school as I did at Moulsecoomb and we were in complete agreement about many of the teachers being snobby, especially the headmaster of the senior school, a Mr. Croucher. Happy days?

I was born at 108 Newick Road and part of a family of ten. I remember the Hargies, Stories, Burtenshaws who lived next to us. One family who I remember well and went to school with was the Robinsons in Barcombe Road.Does anyone remember Doug who used to run the grocers in Barcombe Road?

Hi Ron. This is very stange- my parents Ron and Joyce lived on the corner of barcoombe Road, number 21. One side of us we had Burt Avery, the other side Pam Spain, then the Walkers opposite. We had the Skippers, then there was Mrs Priore, then going round the corner was my Uncle Ken and Aunty Hellen Robinson. My dad Ronnie was a painter and decorator and my uncle worked for the council but my dad and uncle wern't twins. I love talking about Barcoombe Road memories. Thanks

Hi Ian Smith, Gary Walker spent a while on Brighton's blue buses and now is on Crawley coaches. Hope this helps. And hello David Patrick, do you remember me from school?

Hi David, I lived in Barcoombe Road. Which Robinson did you go to school with? I remember Doug the grocer, the Burtinshaws.

Hi Sue. It would have been Ken and Ray who lived opposite Mr. and Mrs Prior so Ken probably moved just across the way, round the corner in his later life. It does appear to me that you are in a slightly different time scale. I was born in the 1920s, as were Ken and Ray.

Thanks Martin. That sounds like I might be able to find Gary. I do rememer him moving to the Crawley area some 30 years ago. I am pleased to get that lead.

Hi Ron. Yea - we do have a diffrent time scale.  It was nice talking to you though! Thanks.

I remember moving to Bates Estate when I was 5 years old, 1951 was the year. Wild Park Close was the aim, and the houses were still being built when we arrived in the removal van. What memories. The night watcher in his little tent, baking potatoes on the fire. All the children at 10pm (yes 10pm!) sharing the food will always be remembered. Hello Alan.

In 1943 I started life as a new born in Halland Road but I do not know the number. In 1946 we moved to 163 Moulsecoomb Way. That was a happy street. I can remember the Coronation street party in 1953. Those were the days when the bus route finished at the top of Moulsecoob Way outside of the Nevell's house. In 1955 we moved to 61 Staplefield Drive. They were still building there. If I remember right, every house had two lorry loads of top soil dumpped in the road and we had to put it on the gardens ourselves. November 1962 just in time for the bad winter we moved again to 19 Nyetimber Hill and that was the family home until my father's death in December 2003. He worked for Allan West almost all of his working life. It was a good place to live with a lot of smashing families.
Clive Roberts: I am so sorry to hear about your dad George. I went to school with him. He was a lovely guy.

Hi Martin. Yes I do remember you from school. Can you remember Johnathan Warner? I played truant with him at Stamner School. Also can you remember the laughs we had with John and Peter Pullin in the playground at Moulsecoombe Juniors? Have you seen or heard from them at all? Nice to hear from you.

I lived in Staplefield Drive no. 135, our neighbours were the Whites on one side and the Shrubs on the other. My sisters were Mary and Mandy, we moved down to the highway when I was seven in 1968. Does anyone remember us or Derek and Leslie Shrub? Mary was best friends with Sandy Colby. We all went to Moulsecoombe Infants, Juniors and Seniors school. Be nice to know if anyone knew us.

I have a photo in my album taken at Moulsecoomb Primary School in 1951. Here are some of the people I remember from the photo: Keith Langridge, Peter Nevitt, Bruce Button, John Gravett, Monica Everett, Sylvia Button, Joan Hills, Coralie Wellman, Verena Richardson, Judy Egginton, Roy Lewington. Love to hear from anyone that remembers me!

Some of the teachers I remember at Stanmer School were: Donald Rawsthorn, (Art), Alec Wills (PE and English later to become assitant Head), Miss Davis, Muddy Boots (Rural Sciance), Mr Lowie (Metalwork), Mr Hobart was the first head master and then Mr Williams, Mr Davis (PE), Ken Box the olympic sprinter (PE), Mr Tully (RI), Mr Needham (Music). Can anyone remember going to St Andrews Youth Club on a Thursday night, the place to be and the names of any of the bands that played there? I played with the Hustlers there and I can remember the Dolphins.
Ian Smith: The guy you were thinking of who had the bad motorcycle accident was Duggy Jay. He later died at work crushed by a dumper truck. He had a sister Pat, they lived just along the road from me. I think it was 51 Staplefield Drive next door to the Clarkes.

Hello Sue. Sad to say your name has not rung any bells but I remember Bruce and Syliva Button. When I first got married I bought the house next door to their mum in Widdicombe Way and used to see them a lot. Keith Langridge and Judy Egginton I also remember. Do you remember Peter Field whose mum had the hairdressers at higher Bevendean? He sang with a local band called The Zodiacs.

Hello Peter. I remember all of the teachers you mention! Did you have a brother named Jimmy - I 'm sure there was a Jimmy Dresch in my class at Moulsecoomb Juniors? I used to go to Judy Egginton's house during the summer holidays, didn't she have brothers named Andrew and David? We used to go whizzing round the corner and down the road on her brother's 4 wheeler!

Hello Sue. Yep. I have a brother Jim who is 18 months younger then me. He has lived in Sweden since 1964. I am sure I was at school with Andrew Egginton but I can't remember a David. It could be that you had mates all in the same year at scool. Let's face it someone two years younger was really young. Do you remember Mr Bastable the caretaker at Moulsecoomb school?

Hello Moulsecoomb. How come nobody has mentioned The Danish Bacon Company at the bottom of Moulescoomb Way? I remember Miss King and Mrs Gould both of whom changed my life. And yes I remember the Nye family. They had all of my family over at Christmas when my father left us. And Mrs Nye got in touch with various charities so that we had presents that Christmas. Many years later, thank you so much.

I do remember Mr Bastable the caretaker, I'm almost sure that his sons were Tony and Phil! Yes, of course The Danish Bacon Co!... and what about Cox's Pill Factory, just under the arch on the right when you were on the No.13 bus going into Brighton!!.... Does anyone remember Mrs Jardine McClouglin, the Head who took over from Mr.Williams?

Hi Susan. You are correct - Mr Bastable's sons were Tony & Phil. I was a friend of theirs and us 3 kids would often play football in the school field, much to the annoyance of Mr Bastable when we disturbed the few chickens he kept in his garden, or more often than not Mrs Bastable when the ball landed near her washing line. I lost contact with Tony & Phil when we moved away from Wild Park Close (opposite the school). I wonder where they are now?

Can anyone remember Charlie Sumner who had the outfitters shop next to Allen West in the Lewes Road, where we would get our school uniforms from. He was always busy when Allen West paid out their bonus. It was the first time I ever saw a white fiver. Some of my school mates were Mick Nevell, Johnny Cole, Kenny Swallow, Mick Siblock and Tom Foggerty. Carters had the tobacconist and Mogers the grocery shop. Old Mr Carter had his front teeth knocked out one evening while watching, Brighton Tigers. What great days they were.

Back to Barcombe Road - I remember having a crush on Kim Standing when I was about 13; anyone remember the Standings, I think they lived at 63? I had a good friend called Paul Robinson during the mid-60s who lived in Newick Road, no idea what happened to him. Pity we can't upload photos, I have a cracking one of him with some amazing hair! When I think of all the hours we would play over at the Wild Park, it is so removed from how the kids spend their time these days. I remember crazy things like trying to emulate a character from a comic (Hotspur?) called Wilson who was an athlete who ran everywhere in his bare feet. A few of us copied him - taking off our shoes and socks, we would race around the grass banks at the rear of the park and lift rocks to try and become like him (nutters!). And then there was a time all the kids in the street bought bows and arrows (real ones). It wouldn't be allowed today of course, but we'd fire them all over the place. On one occasion someone got an arrow in his foot. Ouch!. Someone mentioned the Danish Bacon factory earlier. On one occasion, walking home from school, we nicked some eggs that were lying around by the bins. We took delight in throwing them at the viaduct walls. Sadly, mine had a crack in it and opened up as it left my hands. I was covered in foul-smelling egg yoke. I stunk to high heaven. Happy days.

Just found the site. I lived in Hillside between 1939-1967 with my brothers Keith and Dennis. I think I can supply plenty of nostalgia. Can anyone give me news of the following, all lived in Hillside:  DUKE, CROUCH, ELCOME, BURGESS, BARDEN, DONALDSON, HARPER, MANDER, PRODGER, FORD, WALTON, SHARPE,  KEATING, BRISTOW, DUNKERTON, CARTER, STONE,  NEVITTS, THORPE and ANDREWS. Please let me know if anybody was in the schools athletics team when we were Brighton Champions.

Peter, my brother knew Kenny Swallow (Keith) and I think he was in the choir with me at St Andrews also.

F.A.O. PETER DRESCH, re. Eggintons, I knew the family well. I was David's best man, but have no idea where Judy and Andrew are now.

Hello Peter and Alan. Was Kenny Swallow one of the family of Swallows who lived at the bottom of Moulsecoomb Way? If so I lived three doors away from them in Halland Road.

To Alan Winchester: Bob Prodger and his sisters Pat, Shirley, Yvonne, younger brothers David, Ray, Les and Tony are my in-laws except Tony who is my husband. Their mum and dad were Anne and Les. Les died a few years ago now but their mum is still going strong. The family are still in Brighton and living in or near Moulsecoombe still. Their mum is 92 years old now and has lots of grandkids and great grandkids. Sorry, don't know about the other families. I myself grew up on the highway.

This is turning out to be a small world. Pat Prodger is my aunt. She was married to my Dad's brother Brian until he died some years ago. She is still living on the London Road and I visited her last summer. She keeps close ties with the rest of her family. Peter, I was sorry to hear of Duggie Jay's death. I remember his sister, Pat, she was a year or two older than me. Debbie Philips, of course I remember your family and I remember you moving to the Highway. I knew your older brother Bill. In fact I still have a small tatoo on my arm which I had done when he talked me into going to the tatooist with him in 67. Cost me six shillings and has lasted over 40 years. The Whites were long term friends of ours. I can remember there were about seven kids including Paul, Julie, Heather and I think a Fransesca. Their mother, Eileen remained friends with my mother many years after she moved. I also remember the Shrubs on the other side. Dave Warner, two doors down from you, was a friend of mine and I can recall his brother Johnnie and sister Linda. I also remember the Colby girls Diane, Christine, Linda and Sandy. I had a huge crush on Linda when I was about 14 which I am sure she noticed but never mentioned. It's strange that I knew everone so well then as I have been living in my present house for over 25 years and couldn't tell you who lives in houses a few doors away. Moulsecoomb in that era was the kind of place where we all knew our neighbours but I think it was more to do with the times rather than the place and I dare say things are very different today. Anyhow, please keep writing. this is a most enjoyable experience, resurecting all these distant memories.

Debs, many thanks for your news regarding the Prodger family. Anne will remember my late mother Gladys of 70 Hillside very well.

Joan. Yes the Swallows did live at the very bottom of Moulsecoomb way. What a lovely family they were. Ian, I think Duggie had his bike accident in 1963/4 and died in a work accident around 1967/8 when he was crushed against a tree by a dumper truck. He did have a sister Pat and his dad George worked for many years at Alan West I believe in the machine shop.

Does anyone recall Vera Mercer? She lived in Colbourne Avenue. Her Dad had the all night Garage in Lewes Road. Her brothers were Charlie and Jim and sisters Jean and Pauline. Vera went to Moulsecoomb Seniors from about 1956.

Alan. Hi, I went to school with your brother Keith and I also knew your dad, "Stan". He was the foreman of the machine shop at A-W. He was good friends with my dad who was foreman of the inspection there. What a small world.

Yes Peter they were a lovely family and there were a lot of them. One of the boys caught polio in the 1950s epidemic. From a hazy memory I think he became paralysed, he certainly was in hospital for a long time.

Hi Sue, when you talk about the Averys in Barcoombe Road, they are my family. My Dad is David Avery and Shelia is my Auntie. There is Uncle Tony and Uncle Jonny Avery. My nan and grandad lived there for a long time. I grew up in Moulsceoombe myself and I have some great memories to.

Hi Peter, did your Dad know Tommy Woods, Ron McDonald and Dug Chisnall from A.W.108? I think they were either chargehands or leading hands with Stan.

I was born in Goodwood Way in 1962 and went to the local schools until I went to Patcham Fawcett. My uncles worked in AW and my Mum worked in the sheet metal factory at the bottom of Moulsecoomb Way.

Hello Alan. I knew Doug Chisnall the chargehand so my dad would have known him plus Tommy Woods and Ron McDonald who were leading hands if I remember right. All the foremen and charge hands were a close knit crowd. I spent a couple of winters there when the weather stopped me bricklaying, so I got to know a few of them. Percy Collins in the press shop was a mate of your dads and mine and Stan Clark the foreman of the paint shop. The was a lot of re-sprays on cars that went on there. Mine was one of them.

Hi, does anyone remember a family from Newick Road who emigrated to Australia in the 60s? Not sure of surname but they had a son called Anthony. Not sure about any other kids. I know it's not much to go on but if anyone knows who they may be I just need a surname to look further. Thanks

Hello again Peter, just re-read your entry 24/2/10. Talking to my brother last night he mentioned Kenny Swallow and I now see you knew Tommy Fogarty who my brother Johnnie Oram tore about with in their quite young days - our roads met at the then end of East Moulsecoomb. Don't know if you knew them but I knew the whole Fogarty family, Titchie, John, Ray, their sister (think she was Peggy) and the one who died, Lily. Their Dad died quite young, but Mrs Fogarty used to have a stall on Saturdays in Upper Gardner Street.

Hi Lesley. Yes, I know all the Averys. Your greatnan and grandad lived next door to us - we knew them as Aunty Glad and Uncle Bert and there was your Aunty Shelia. I used to love being off school because every afternoon Aunt Glad used to bring her knitting round to my mum and they would sit and watch Crown Court and House Party. But in the mornings, if I wasn't at school, they would take it in turns to make tea and Mum would bring crusty rolls back from Dougies the greengrocer and make up lovely cheese rolls - I loved it. I do know your dad and I also remember your Uncle Tony, Shelia's brother. Take care.