I can remember West's Farm at Coldean in the early 1930s. Effluent from the buildings would flow across Coldean Lane and the smell was exceedingly strong - but nobody objected to what was seen as a necessary function for humanity.  Cattle from the farm were regularly driven down Coldean Lane, left up Falmer Road, then diagonally right along the lane at the rear of the houses in North Moulsecoomb abutting Woolards Orchard. They carried on under the railway arch to the fields beyond on the left and further up the valley where there was what we called the Dew Pond. To the right after passing under the arch was Bates Orchard. There were no fences between the lane and Woolard's or Bates's Orchards. Often the bull could be seen by us children servicing the cows and nothing untoward was thought about such a natural function....   On one occasion, the haystack that always appeared at the corner of Coldean Lane and the main Falmer Road was set alight and burnt down. Quite a loss to the hardworking farmer; and I was one of those interviewed by the local Bobby, seeking any possible information.  Fairly regularly the farmer would take his tractor from the farm, along the main road and down the lane I've mentioned, to the fields beyond the railway arch. It had large metal teeth around its wheel rims for gripping soft ground and to traverse the public roads the farmer would fit metal rims around the toothed section to present a smooth surface to the road. The main reason for travelling to the fields with it was for haymaking.  I learned how to drive a tractor at the age of ten! I also learned that money could be earned by doing potato picking after the main crop had been picked up by adults who left considerable amounts behind in their haste!  There's more - but I'll leave it for now.

My family moved into Hawkhurst Road when it was built and I was born there. In those days, large families were not uncommon, I have 5 brothers and 2 sisters but there were larger families. I remember how our house was always unlocked, the back door often open for us kids or our dogs to come and go. I remember playing football on the green outside our house or on the road, where there were few cars. As we got older we'd move up to the swing park off Haig Avenue and we'd have some great Sunday afternoons playing out in all weathers. We did have a good bus service, the No.13, and it always seemed that as one bus left the terminus at Haig Avenue, another would appear. I've been gone many years but Coldean will always be 'home'.

My family, the Mohns's, moved into Saunders Hill over 50 years ago. The estate was new and our house number 174 had only just been built. My dad Doug bought the house in the 70s and it's still in our name today. Does anyone remember or know us? Or do you know anyone who may have pictures of the school, shops, old swing park, scout group etc back then?
Do you remember the yearly pancake race? Mr Oliver the chemist? Pam McCenna in the post office, and what about dear old Tommy Vine? The trade vans that used to run on the estate? What ever your memories, I would love to hear from you. I now live in Hollingbury and work for the Argus.

Hi Paul, how strange that when I moved to Bevendean I should end up two doors away from your brother, Chris, and that my son and his were close friends until they moved away. Some of those old names, from the shops, bring back memories and Dr Herzl Sless also took the surgery, a surgery which hardly changed for many years.

Hi Paul and Ken - just found this site. Yes I remember Coldean too. Lived in Beatty Avenue for some 40 odd years. Yes I remember 'Doc Olver, Tom Vine and Pam McKenna. Do you two remember the first owner of the sweet shop - a Mr Wilson - and the owner of the grocers - Stan Morris? One of the tradesmen was the coal man - Barlows - who had an office in Rugby Road off of Bear Road.  I also remember a grocer's van that used to come round on Friday evenings too - but I can't remember the name. They used to sell parafin too.

I remember both the Mohns and Valder families through Chris and Robin, respectively. They were both in my class at Coldean and Stanmer. I used to live opposite the shops at the top of Beatty Avenue. I too have some very fond memories of Coldean and I have just come across some old cine film including panning round the house the shops, Stanmer woods. The old people's home was being built down in the dip and the flats next to Tom Vine's shop were also under construction.

Dr Sless' Surgery - now that brings back memories. Was his partner a Dr Curtis? I remember a cold bleak waiting room many times as a frightened child. Tommy Vine was the greengrocer next door and I well remember his "van shop". I lived at 2 Forest Road from when I was born in 1955 until 1976. I remember Tommy Vine's shop parking up in the service road alongside Coldean Lane at the bottom of Forest Road. I remember the Prices, Deans, Stranges, Greenfields, Dawes, Paynes, Kings, O'Reillys and many others. Anyone remember the Eldridges (I think) grocers shop in the parade by the Hikers Rest? I too have some cine film which I converted to digital video - though sadly, most is just my brother (Frank) and I fooling around in the garden. Few shots of Coldean Lane though probably late 60s. Will convert (parts) for Youtube if anyone is interested.
Hi Mike Elmes - have you had your cine converted ? Happy to convert it for you if you want (I can do standard or super 8). We used to have massive football matches on the greens alongside Coldean Lane - fond memories of those and mums shouting for us to come it around 9pm. Happy days.

I too was brought up in Coldean and what a place to live as a kid. All the fields and building sites to play in. The chip shop with those lovely soggy chips and batter scraps which did not do me any good in later life. I lived in Rushlake Road. I remember old Mr Daily the ice cream man and if a kid did not have the 4d or 6d for a lolly, Mr Daily would not see that kid go without. People were different those days without a doubt Great days.

Hi Michael,
I was born in 1952 and lived in Coldean from 1955 to 1979. The have converted the cine film to digital. There are two clips on You Tube both containing rare footage of Coldean back then. You will have to put up with quite a lot "fooling around in our front garden" at No 1 Beatty Ave, but there are some good scenes of the shops oposite, an old no.13 bus etc. Look on You Tube for the two clips Coldean 1962 and Arundel Trip.

Hi Mike. Excellent stuff. I will have to get to work on mine. Who is the boy in the blue jumper? He looks very familiar.

Added a few clips, plus a bit from Stanmer park and Hollingury. You also have to put up with me and my brother Frank horsing around - We spent ages messing with that cine film, splicing, reversing etc. If the youtube link is removed below - it should come up on a 'coldean' search or michaelkeay on youtube.

Editor's note: Sorry we don't allow Youtube links as a matter of policy but have viewed the film, it's well worth a look.

Hello Mike, I also live in Coldean. I saw your videos on youtube - they are great. Many of the elderly residents who still live in Coldean remember the shops and views as they were then shown in your films. I run a web site for Coldean as part of the Residents Association, I hope you don't mind I used your videos on our site, have look at www.coldean.org.uk.

No problem Robin. I took a look but could not find at coldean.org.uk. Is it embedded somewhere?

Hi Mike. Look on the 'news' page and scroll down near the bottom of the page.

Just found out that my mum used to live at 28 Park Road in the late 40s. Is there any one out there that can let me have any information on the place around 1946/47. She is dead now and it would be nice to know what the place would have been like. So any suggestions on books to read or where I might get some photos of the place. Many thanks to any one that can help.

Hi there John - Great memories. I do remember the name Hobday and the connection with the "Jazz Club" on Wednesdays. I think he was also possibly associated with "Radio Brighton" in its early days... probably the forerunner to current Southern Counties Radio. I got my pocket money on a Wed and rushed up to the jazz club at the school, (soldiers posted to stop you straying up the corridors and into the classrooms). I always hoped to see Lesley Dargonne and Linda Wyatt (Lesley lived in Park Close and Linda in Saunders Hill). I certainly remember the Wolleys - I used to play football in the 'park' / grass opposite the Hikers Rest. I seem to remember Joe Redbourne lived opposite the top of Forest Rd. Good stuff John.

A friend just told me about this website and the references to the shop at Coldean. I can confirm that my parents owned the Post Office/Newsagents/sweet shop during the 1960s. I worked in the shop for a few years before going off, as John Wilkin remembers, to try to be a pop star. If anyone is interested there is a Mike Stuart Span website  (just Google the group name). Some of our early gigs were at the Hikers Rest. The group folded in the late 60s and I began working (right again John) at the new BBC Radio Brighton. In the mid-70s I moved to be a producer at Radio 2, until I took early retirement in 1999. Does anyone remember Peter Robinson who lived in Hawkhurst Road just round he corner from the shops? Peter had his own pop music page in the Evening Argus (every Thursday I think) whilst he was still a pupil at Stanmer School. He went on to have a number of jobs in and around the record industry and for some time has been running his own record label Dome Records.

Hi there Stuart and thanks for the confirmations. Who owned/managed the Hikers Rest back then - can you remember? My mum (Mary Keay) used to work upstairs cooking pub meals and she used to take me in as a small boy. Also can anyone remember when Coldean school opened? Before my time but I think it was 1950 ish. I have an Argus clipping of my brother (Frank Keay) running out of the school after its first day. And I assume Mr Burrows has left.

Going back to place history ... the 1930s. At the end of the grass valley which used to be, leading into the hills as one travels from the railway arch at North Moulseoomb (and which is now overbuilt with housing) finalising in the dew pond, there used to be a huge rabbit burrow, and about once a year, usually late summer, the West farming family used to put their ferrets and polecats down it then stand back with their shotguns, using spreadshot, shooting the rabbits as they bolted from their holes. I can remember so clearly because my father, who was a very proficient rabbit catcher, never using guns, only a dog and polecats, together with his own handmade nets, would decry their actions as too painful for the rabbits, sometimes only just hitting them with one or two pellets from the spreadshot then they would run off; and in any case, where those farmers still captured them, they had introduced lead into what would later be eaten. He worked with them on one occasion, using his own animals and nets, including a long net across the top area of the burrow, further up the hill. A most fruitful event but which they said they didn't prefer to the sport of shooting.
Rivalry between Whitehawk and North Moulsecoomb children was a neighbourhood factor. East Moulsecoomb hadn't been built up very much then, and kids from Whitehawk would delight in visiting the area when they would be engaged in a brick raid. All bravado stuff in which no-one hardly ever got hurt. On one occasion, above the dew pond position towards the Whitehawk direction, a tree den had been built in one of the gnarled trees with wide spreading branches. It consisted mainly of minor branches spread across major boughs to form a stable platform. Minor wooden branches had then been added followed by an old carpet section then covered in hand cut turves. I was one of those assisting! The lads from Whitehawk paid one of their customary visits and destroyed it before reinforcements could be summoned. A later gang visit from Moulescoomb to the Whitehawk area was abandoned when those present saw, on arriving at the hilltop overlooking Whitehawk, that it would be a mission impossible ... ! One of the favoured hobbies amongst the boys would be the making of bows and arrows. It took a time to gather the right wood for the bow, often hazelwood with its superior bending capacity without breaking. The older, stronger boys would go for the strongest possible wood having some difficulty in being bent for stringing which would consist of a 'V' cut in each end for tying. The arrows took much longer to form because an efficient aeroform giving trueness of flight would be required. Some of us managed to gain boxwood with its straightness. One result of the hobby was the injury of one lad (would it have been Tommy Johnson?) being taken to hospital with a head wound. Where there was hazelwood, there would be cobnuts in September. The wood above that railway arch to the left, spreading over the hillside was a good supply source; as was the forbidden wood over the wall in Stanmer Park for Chestnuts.
The once a year activity of Tab-a Go I've mentioned elsewhere in the forum, where anything going could be obtained by paying with tabs (cigarette cards) for whatever. Alleys (marbles) could be bought or exchanged. Bikes could be hired for a day or half-day. Tops (spinning tops) could be hired or bought. Whatever could be thought of would be included where possible. One of the most popular ones was the skipping rope across the road. But the best one of all was when Mr. Brown promised to use his gas company large van to give those who had paid a fair tabs price a ride in a group into the countryside for a while. We couldn't see where we were going, only what it was like when we got there - but it was the very best of all.
When my ten year old brother Johnny died the only small bike in the family which had been donated by a kindly neighbour to the family some time before, also disappeared. I was the tender age of 8 and when I asked after the bike I was told it had gone with Johnny. Little did we kids realise that it had almost certainly helped to pay for a funeral.
After WWII none of the previously enjoyed activities reappeared. At the same time, by those 1930s standards, we were progressively better off. Oh well, once again, happy days!

I have just found this page, I was searching for some of my old pals from Coldean. I remember a lot of the names mentioned. Does anyone remember me? My name is Roy Dibley, I was born in Ingham Drive in 1956 and went to Coldean primary. I would like to hear from old mates like Kevin Wooley, Paul Granger, Andy Whitehead, Martin Conrad. My Dad still lives in our old house. I have great memories of my childhood and would welcome any contact

My grandfather (Bill Brown) was the caretaker of Coldean school from when it opened (early 50's?) to 1973. At first he lived with his family in 82 Beatty Ave until the local authority built a house at the school grounds entrance in Selham Close. In the early days the Sunday services were held in the school hall, as the Barn had not yet been converted into the church of sSt Mary Magdalen. It was here that my Dad (Ron) met my Mum (Audrey). In 1960 we moved into The Byway, just off Walton Bank (not Waldron ,John). My Mum and Dad ran a youth club that I seem to remember Greg Elmes, Mike's brother (amongst many others) went to .They were also involved in the church and my Dad was Church Warden for something like 30 years. I worked as a paper boy for the Hobdays and briefly as delivery boy (heavy black push bike with wicker basket on the front) for the butcher that was at the other end of the parade of shops. I remember many of the contributors to this page and enjoyed the memories you've brought back . Learnt guitar with John Wilkins. Always hoped I could ride in the old coach that was parked out the back of the Beatty Ave shops (I guess that was the band bus for the Mike Stuart Span). The Wednesday night jazz club, the 20th Brighton Coldean Cub Scout Group,The church choir, Unit 25 youth club. the No 13 bus (particularly the last one home!).....................

We lived in Wolseler Rd, me and my two brothers. Our next door neighbours were Mike and Linda Bassett, also Alan Carter. As young lads we spent our weekends in Stanmer woods, climbing trees and scrumping in the village. As a teenager we went to the youth club run by Mac in the 50s, and on Wednesdays they ran a dance night in the school hall where they played all the latest hit records. There was also a live group - the Hustlers; best night of the week. The Hikers Rest was our local; brought my first beer there in the offy. Happy days

This page has reminded me a lot about my youth. I lived at 60 Coldean Lane from 1955 to 1974. I bought one of those prefabs in 1979 and am still here-a brilliant place to live as a child and to have brought up our three kids. Shame it's all being spoilt by the council planners and landlords turning it into a student rental estate.

Stuart Hobday. I was at school with your sister at Stanmer Secondary Modern. I think I saw your band at the Dome in the early seventies. Did you front for the Procal Harum band there? Peter Robinson I remember. Will look him up next time I visit. I emigrated to the USA in 1985 and live in Burlington Ct. Wolseley Rd is still the same and have fond memories of Coldean, the only problem being a long walk home when you missed the last number 13 from the Steine.

Two acticles here interest me. I went to Coldean School in the early 50's and a friend of mine at that time was Bob Brown, the caretaker's son. Just shows how little we take notice of others for I didn't realise he had a brother Ron. The other piece was placed by Roger Durrant (it must be the one I knew). In our teens, a few of us had motor bikes and I particularly remember Roger and Mike Bassett who worked on the railway. I agree with other contributors that Coldean was a great place to live. It's still special to me even though I haven't lived there since 1963.

Remembering jazz club on Wednesday afternoon's after school and unit 25 in the chuch hall, I think it was Paul Brigden who ran the disco and Martin Brown too. I moved to Coldean in 1967 with my parents and brother Nick Stedman and attended infant school, then junior school. I remember the headmistress (infants) was a Miss Williams and junior school head was the Lovely musical Mr Burrows. I can remember Friday afternoon assembly when we would all sing and find out which house had acheived most awards, Arundel, Hastings, Bramber or Lewes. I think I was in Arundel (red) house, what fond memories. At present both my parents still live in the same house Rushlake Road.

Hi Paul Mohns. Interesting reading about your dad, you see Doug was also my dad. Hope you are all well down there in Brighton. I am an artist living in South Wales and have five children and six grandchildren. Keep well and God bless.

In reply to Ron Baker: the concert at the Dome that you remember was on 21st June 1968 and headlined by Scott Walker and the Herd. The event was promoted by the aforementioned Peter Robinson (I still have a concert programme). If you're interested, there's actually a Wikipedia page on the group. Just Google Mike Stuart Span.

Hi Bob, yes it's me, if you have a sister Janet. Yes Mick, worked on the railway,and I was an apprentice at Alan West. The motor bike I had was a B.S.A. bantam - cost me £10. There were a few of us who used to race up and down Rushlake Rd, can't remember their names now, no crash helmets or L plates - didn't seem to bother then. Still drive through Coldean and remember the good times.

Wendy Davies Williams, please contact me!!

Hi Sophia Mohns yes my father was Douglas and I met the family when they were younger. Kathy told me that he had passed away, and I told my sister, she lives in Shoreham. I am an artist and I live in Porthcawl in South wales. I have a large painting of my fathers of Stanmer Park the only thing I have but I have the best thing, I paint. My son Steven Douglas lives in Amsterdam, Mandy in Cambridge, also a painter. Katie also a painter lives in Porthcawl as does Owen and Rhiannon. Pleased to hear from you. God bless x

Stuart Hobday. Thanks for the info. I looked you up on Wikipedia! Those were the days!

I have only just found this site and have been interested to read about the old days in Coldean. My uncle, Ken Thomspson used to run the jazz club. I am married to Owen Hutchings who also used to help out. I remember the Christmas parties. Ken used to go up to London to buy all those lovely presents we used to get. My father-in-law Alf Hutchings was the Verger of Coldean church for over 40 years. Owen grew up in No.74, Beatty Avenue and moved in when the house was first built in 1951. Years later after we married we ended up in No.82, just a few doors away and have been here nearly 30 years.

Roger Durrant; yes I have a sister Janet, a couple of years younger than me. In fact I have  three sisters and three brothers; a sister and brother still live in Coldean. The rest like me also still live in Brighton. While you were slogging it in the famous Allen & West I was working at the Gaiety Cinema as a Trainee Projectionist, a job I've never bettered. They showed a feature film and a support film Mon-Wed then a different programme Thur-Sat and a complete different programme for Sun. I had left a long time before they turned it into the Vogue. Living in Coldean meant using the Lewes Road a lot and from Falmer to Harrtinton Road is one of the most changed roads in Brighton. Since the early fifties gone or altered is the road itself; splitting Falmer Village, altering the rail bridge at the bottom of Moulsecoombe Way (Roger will remember the shop there; 'Woolvenes' I think'), Stanmer Waterworks, the cottages at the bottom of Coldean Lane, the large cottage near them next to the large Orchard (where the New Park is), the Barracks, Sweppes, the viaduct near the 'Gladstone' Pub and of course the Gaiety. The Allen Arms has had a name change several times and now sits on an island next to a petrol station. Added alongside the Lewes Road is the University, Teachers Training College, the College at the Avenue, B&Q etc and soon the B&HA Football Stadium. Others will point out the other changes I'm sure and those of my age will remember the cycles rushing down Moulsecoombe Way from Allen & West at lunch time as well as evenings. I wonder how many people now do what many of us did back then; walk down that great road from Coldean to the beach to swim and the walk back. Happy Days

Hi there Roy Dibley. I remember you well - and Paul Granger (Saunders, Wolsey or Reves Hill?) I used to go round your house after school and drink cream soda (you used to have it delivered and I thought you were sooo rich). I think you can find Paul Granger at Lancing - there is a caravan and motorhome sales room behind Autobahn? garage - just after the Shoreham Airport turn off - I think Paul runs it. I keep meaning to look in myself as we both went to Secondary Technical school after Coldean. A few years later I brought a Suzuki GT750 (kettle) from you - not sure if you were still living at home though. - Cheers and take care.

Wow!I can't believe all the letters I have just read, the memories come flooding back of the great times in Coldean. I lived in Middleton Rise with brother John who after leaving school joined the Royal Navy, my elder sister Margaret who left school to work at I think was Cox's pill factory. Dad worked as many from Coldean did at Allan and West with our mum who also for many years worked at the Hikers Rest. I remember all the shop keepers you have mentioned, but my doctor was Dr Rutherford at Moulscombe. Also remember the rag and bone man who gave a goldfish if you gave him enough old rags and the winkle man on a Sunday selling winkles by the pint, many Sundays I would have to sit with a needle and get the winkles from the shell for tea. I lived at no 19 Middleton Rise which was in a culdesac, my name was Janet Deacon. If you remember me, I would love to hear your stories.

Hello Janet, I'm sure we lived very near each other although I don't really remember. I recognise the name. We Harman's lived in Rushlake Road (West Drive) at the top of Forest Road with the Cul-de-sac of Middleton Rise directly behind us. My Mum lived there until she died in 1997. My Dad died in 1985. My brothers and sisters are still very much alive; Ted, Janet, Susan, David, Barrie, and Sara. Ted lives in Beatty Ave and Sara, who married Christopher Gorringe from the Roundway, now lives in Hawkhurst Road. Like many people I still look towards Coldean for those happy memories of my youth. It always makes me feel good to see the remarks of others.

Hello Bob, thank you for leaving your comment for me, it's really nice to hear from someone who remembers you and of course Coldean. First I got confused when you said Middleton Rise was behind your house as I remember there was a family of Harmans on the other side of the road near the bus stop, I think the names were Colin, John and Janice, am I right? Then I remembered your sisters Janet and Susan, think you lived either next door or very near the Woods family. Of course we have all fled the nest and mum and dad have both gone now. My sisters Margaret and Wendy still live in Brighton, my brother in Gosport and I now live in Worthing as do my 2 daughters and 4 grandsons. Thank you again for answering my post Bob, and do you know the more I think of your name I'm begining to get a face. Keep in touch. Janet Lee,

Well, Janet, Nothing wrong with your memory! The Harmans who lived opposite Middleton Rise were actually related to us. Joe Harman was a second cousin of my Dad's. His wife (I only ever called her Mrs Harman) used to collect money for the 'Provident cheques'. You're quite right we lived next door to the Woods who had exchanged homes with the Russells who lived for a while in East Moulescoombe before they moved to Canada. In the 50s many people emigrated to Commonwealth countries to boost the population and skills of those places. Obviously I could never understand why anyone would want to leave the freedom of a place like Coldean and travel to the other side of the world. After all, we had all we could want. We had vans that were converted into shops selling all manner of things such as a greengrocer and bakery. Salesmen selling odds and ends like hairbrushes and coat hangers were regular callers as well as buyers if you had metal, paper or clothes. Although I know it's not possible, all the boys seemed to have paper rounds. I also worked in most of the shops once I was twelve and played all manner of games in the streets. If it was today my parents would probably do time. Happy days.

Thanks again Bob for the comment. Something else I remembered - did your mum and dad go fishing? I seem to remember them getting on the 13 bus with fishing rods and lunch box ready for a day's fishing on the pier. Also you say you were related to the other Harmans, well I think they were related to the Pumfreys who lived at no 15 Middleton Rise so you must have known them too, Barry and Linda I believe. It really is a small world Bob, keep 'em coming!

Hello Janet Lee, nee Deacon, I have only recently discovered this site for residents of Coldean (actually it was found by my wife). I do remember you, as we lived opposite at number 5 Middleton Rise. We moved from Brighton to Coldean about 1947, and my parents, Leslie and Irene were there until about 1982/83. We had a wonderful childhood there playing free in the steet, in Stanmer woods, in the Wild Park, and in the orchards which were along the Lewes Road between Coldean Lane and the Wild Park. I can remember all of the families who lived in the cul-de-sac, starting at number 1. Marchant, number 3. Glanville, number 5. Burchell, number 7. Hackett, number 9. Vardy, number 11. Lockyer, number 13. Barry, number 15. Brooker, number 17. Poundsbury, number 19. Deacon, number 21. Bateson, number 23. Bishop. I now live in Lewes, not that far away, and we have one daughter, Louise, who was married last year and lives in Eastbourne. My sister Barbara lives in Reading, and has a daughter, a son, and two grand-children. I do remember all of your family. Best wishes and happy memories. By Ian Burchell.(21.2.2011)

I was just browsing the site because my daughter's in-laws live in Hawkhurst Road. I have recently caught up with an old friend from my days living off Portland Road, when our children were small, who used to live in Hawkhurst as a child, Christina Wood. I worked (in the 70's) with Hillary Spicer and Chris Feek, both from Coldean (during their childhood years) and Kath Hogbin RIP too at the same firm - I believe she and her family lived in Ingham Drive. The children were Roger and a sister, whose name escapes me at the moment. And blow me down, I definitely know the last person to report on 22/02/2011 - yes, Mr Burchell - small world. I think I may also know Bob Harman, another workmate from the 1970's and 2000's, who last commented on 08/02/2011. I have viewed with pleasure the reports - and am posting a link on Facebook, to Hawkhurst Road and other parts of Brighton. Well done, whoever first started this site.

My name was Tina Wood and I lived in Coldean from 1960 till 1979. I lived at 127 Hawkhurst Road. I love living in Coldean. I have a photo from Jazz club that no one knows who the lady is. It would have been taken about 1967. I will try to work out how to put it here in case anyone recognizes her. I would love to hear from anyone who remembers my family. Owen Hutchens I remember, I'm sure it was him who wrote me the history of Brighton and Hove Albion which I still have 40 years later! There is a Coldean School facebook page which has some old photos on too.

Well hello Ian Burchell, what a lovely surprise to hear from someone that lived in the cul-de-sac. Yes what great times they were, playing in the street untill all hours with a rope the length of the road and us all joining in, hop scotch untill we got told off by Mr Bateson for chalking the numbers on his pavement, marbles in the gutter, five stones, hide and seek and many more games all which never cost a penny, my how times have changed. I remember you and Barbara well, also your mum and dad. We thought you were rich as you had a car, not many did in those days. My sister Margaret remembers Barbara having a new bike and it was pale blue. Funny the things you remember isn't it? I live in Worthing now after living in Brighton for 56 years, never missed Brighton but I certainly missed Coldean. I have two daughters and four grandsons, I am also going to be a great grandmother in August. Where have all those years gone? Please give my regards to Barbara and keep these wonderful memories going. Take care, Jan.

I remember many of the people and events above. I was born in Rushlake Road. I lived there until I got married. My dad died last year (2010). He was a watchmaker. My parents moved into Coldean in 1951 when the house was newly built. They were there until they died - my father was there nearly sixty years. It was amazing how the neighbours seldom changed. All the people around where I lived only left when they died! I have two sisters and an elder brother. We all attended Coldean school. My elder brother and sister subsequently went to Moulsecoomb school. My parents would not let myself or my younger sister go there. So I went to Patcham Fawcett and my sister to Stanmer. I worked at Allen West, as did a lot of other Coldean people. Later I also worked briefly at K.T.M. and Wade engineering at Hollingbury. The demise of these local firms affected many local people in Coldean and indeed other estates badly. It was a nice estate for children to grow up. There was plenty of woods and green spaces. However there was very little for the teens. It was not the most sociable of estates- it could have done with a social club which some of the other areas had. However it was mostly full of nice people and I have some wonderful memories.

I was born in 16 Arlington Crescent in 1957. My mum worked at Coldean school as a cook my brother Bernard Bowditch and Audrey all went to Coldean. I remember Mr Burrows, the Christmas parties. What a safe and happy area Coldean was. I still dream of the area. Does any one remember us? I remember Paul Brigden and Joe Rebourne who was in my class at school.

Hello Nina! Joe Redborne had a very serious accident and, sadly, is now disabled. I came across him at work. (I work at the Royal Sussex County Hospital). His brother Duncan also passed away. Very sad!

Hi everyone. Carol Gordon is organizing a school reunion for people who attended Coldean school in the late 60s through to 70s . The cost is £5 and includes a tour of the school. Anyone who fancies finding out more can contact me and I'll be pleased to help and meet up with friends old and new. Tina Wood (ex Hawkhurst Road ) christina_tinkler@yahoo.com

For Bob Harman: Hi Bob, I wonder if I went to school with your brother Dave. Did he go to the Secondary Technical school 66-71? I lived in Barcombe Road in Moulsecoomb, opposite the Wild Park.

Hello Kevin. I'm sure it must be my brother you're thinking of. He did ideed go to the Technical School. Dave's 11 years younger than me so I know very little about his school years. However, I do see a lot of him. He's a really nice bloke who I'm proud to call my friend.

Hi Bob. Are you one and the same who lives in Carden Avenue now?

Hi, I lived in Beattie Ave from the age of two till I was eight. Then we moved to Rushlake Rd, just down from Forest rd. My dad was the local chimney sweep. Do any of you remember the Burtenshaws?

My name was Carol Chick and I had an older brother called Alan and an older sister, Janet. My parents still live in Ingham Drive in the house I was born in. We used the Dr at the end of Ingham Drive, Dr. Waters. I remember Mr. Olver the chemist, the old butchers, greengrocers and hairdressers. The grocer's van was called Saunders and I remember the Corona van coming round once a week too. We have organised a reunion for past pupils of Coldean School which will take place on Saturday 2 July at the school. The evening starts at 6.45 with a tour of the school and goes on till 9.30. We will be displaying old photos and programmes from the school. Initially we planned it for people who left in the 1970s in case we got indundated but we still have spaces left so have opened it to all. Tickets cost £5 per head to cover cost of hall hire and insurance and requests should be sent to; Jo Smart (reunion), Coldean Primary School, 12 Kenwards, Coldean, Brighton, BN1 9EN. Cheques should be made payable to C. Gordon and an SAE enclosed. Look forward to meeting up with some of you!

Hey Bob, did you have a sister Sarah  and live next door to Yvonne Redborn? If you are that Bob, I also remember your mum, she kept a very tidy house. I think you was about my sister Jackie Burtenshaw's age, and your sister was a year or two younger than me. Also tell all your brothers and sisters about the school reunion on the 2nd of July, for details Carol has left a comment above this one. The reunion even made it to the Argus, it's going to be a great night. xx

Hi everyone, I used to live in Ingham Drive, next door to Carol Chick and to the doctors, Dr Waters. The Mitchell's lived next door to Carol the other side, Chris, Colin, Shelley and Timmy. I had three sisters, Sue, Teresa, Emma and my brother Garry. I remember jazz club well and the bingo in the church hall and the disco there as well and dancing to the last dance Brown Sugar! Remember getting the pork stuffed roll for xmas dinner from the local butcher and the Corona van and the limeade and cherryade. Loved going to Coldean School and not so keen on Falmer. My best friend lived in the Hiker's Rest pub called Gill Anderson. My dad used to work for Creeds up the Hollingbury and also Sunblest, he left there when I got married in '81 and my mum and dad moved out 20 odd years ago and moved to Woodingdean until my Dad passed away in '97. Nice to see a lot of memories on here I must say x

I heard today (10th July 2011) that Ken Thompson sadly passed away this week. Ken ran the fabulous annual children's Christmas party, Friday bingo and Wednesday Jazz Club and other local activities for many, many years. Ken did so much for the Coldean community for both the young and old. I am sure many of us have fond memories of him. I am unable to find a date for his funeral so if anyone can help please can you let me know.

Stuart Hobday and anyone else interested in the Mike Stuart Span may be interested to know that I've bought the Span's recent CD compilation Children Of The Future, and that it's excellent, and that a review of it by me can be found on the international classic albums blogsite The Rising Storm (www.therisingstorm.net) to which I'm a regular contributor. Experience Brighton's premier 1960s rock band! (This isn't a plug, folks, it's a purely amateur enthusuiast undertaking.) On a separate topic, would the Paul Granger referred to above be the younger son of Mr and Mrs Granger who ran the Children's Home at 70 Wolseley Road, Coldean, where I and my sister were resident for five months in 1962?

Thanks for the plug Len and thanks for the very kind review on The Rising Storm website. One small point - the CD is called 'Children of Tomorrow' (available from all good record shops), not Children of the Future. If anyone is interested in a few more 60s memories, they might like to try the group's own website www.mikestuartspan.moonfruit.co.uk

Sorry, Stuart - 'Children Of Tomorrow' it was indeed! 'Children Of The Future' was the album by the Steve Miller Band, about the same time but from the States. Fortunately I got the title right on The Rising Storm review!

My parents bought the grocer's shop in Park Road - it was formerly known as 'Deals' ('you get a good deal at Deals'). Originally it had wooden egg boxes for shelves! All my family worked in the shop at one time or another. My sister Pearl, me, my brother-in-law John, my brother Colin and my Aunt Iris. In fact, most of my family lived close by, either in Park Road or Rushlake Road (previously West Drive) where I was born. For most of my childhood, the roads were not made up!

David. I went to school with your brother Colin. How is he doing now? I emigrated to the US in 1984 and now live in Connecticut. Give him my regards.

Hi David I read you recent comments re the shop in Park Road, although we lived in Newick Road we often used the Coldean shops including Deal's and the Chippy. I also clearly remember your sister Pearl, she was in my class at Moulsecoomb School. On the Moulsecoomb School pages you will find a picture of our class in 1949/50 which includes her. Please remember me to her, I hope she is well. Wyn Burgess (nee Woolven)

Hi David Eldridge, I do remember Eldridges - the Grocers. My mum and dad had an 'account' and would send me down to get stuff which would be written up in the book and settled at the end of the week. Mrs Eldridge would always reject my attempts to get sweet purchases added to 'the book'. Hey Bob Harman - I think you maybe knew my older brother Frank. Did you by any chance own a bubble car - maybe a meschersmitt? If it is you, I have a picture of you at the bottom of Middleton Rise working in the car. I think you also may have got my broken pogo stick welded for me - so thanks again :-)

So glad I found this page! I'm Claire Pearce - lived at 42 Park Road until I was 18, my Mum having lived at 39 Park all her childhood until marrying and moving a few doors up the road. Very fond memories of Coldean School, especially being the girl chosen in 1977 to plant a tree in The Level for the Silver Jubilee. Miss Williamson(!). Fantastic teachers in both Infants and Juniors. Mr Stone teaching us to play shinty at St Joseph's when our school roof fell in, Mrs Berriman, Mrs Drake, Mrs Cheeseman - many teachers who helped us become who we are today. My best friend Gill Turner (Walton Bank) who sewed her placemat she was stitching to her skirt and breaking her love bead necklace in assembly and laughing so much we were sent outside to calm down! Victoria Haden (other best friend) but year below, coming to church with me regularly so I could be confirmed. Dancing classes in the church hall, brownies, then guides - the library! Fond memories and a superb place to grow up. I now live in Dubai, but Coldean, Brighton is home.

I have just found this page - and it brings back many memories. My family moved to 15 Ingham Drive in about 1955 when I was six years of age and remained there until about 1960. My elder sister was Susan and my younger brother and sister were Melvyn and Carolyne. My father is now in a nursing home and Mum is recovering from cancer. Carol (entry 14/06/2011) I believe we were nextdoor neighbours. Our other immediate neighbours were the Wells family. Like others, I remember Dr Waters and the headmaster Mr Burrows and the fun and freedom of playing in the local woods - and being chased out of the corn fields by farmer West. Michael Whitehead lived just up the road, we were born on the same day - our mothers were in hospital together. I can still remember clearly most of our neighbours, including the Grangers, the three Archer brothers, the Elliott sisters and, with fond memories, the family who lived at the end of the road - their father was a baker and often supplied us kids with cooking chocolate. Later in life I returned to Brighton as Head of CID. I am now retired and living in Horsham.

Hi Ian Burchell and Janet Lee. Found this page last year, only just got round to writing a comment. Lovely to hear all your news. Yes, fond memories and happy days. Bang on with all the neighbours Ian, just to add - remember the mutts! Plenty of them, us, Lupo, Pumfr, Judy, Pounsbury, Waggles, you, Janet Glen, not sure about Prince i.e Hacket or Glandville. I remember Lupo just nudging Wendy to one side whilst going up the steps 'cos she was in the way. Rod now lives in Burgess Hill, two girls and extended family of four grandchildren, and is still climbing mountains! San emigrated to NZ in '75 one daughter and two grandsons. San has been back a few times and we have been over there -  is still working as I am. Rod enjoying retirement. I am still local and catch up with former Coldean /Moulsecoomb mates regular. I have two daughters, one son, two grandchildren Yes, great days, safe. Spent most of our time Stanmer /Wild park on made up bikes, 4 wheelers playing simple games. Glad to hear all well. Great to read all other comments

Well hello Stewart Lockyer. Been looking for you and all others from Middleton Rise. Found Norman Bateson, he lives in France and we keep in touch by email, I had lunch with Ann this week, she bought along old photos (God did I really look like that?) also had lunch with Raymond just before christmas, he now lives in Cornwall. Wonderfull times we had in Coldean as you said it was very safe in those days, we never locked our doors or windows and neighbours were free to come and go. I remember your mum and dad as if it were yesterday and Sandra when she went off to the other side of the world, I thought how very brave of her with such a young baby. Lovely to here from you and keep the letters coming so I can tell Norman. Take Care love Jan xxx

Just found this website. I lived on Park Road for 49 years. You may remember Stuart and Fiona who both went to Coldean school inthe late 60s and early 70s. Stuart's contemporaries were Cliff Dargonne and Steve Jeffries. Fiona's were Michaela Boyle and Julie. 'Tricia Hebron, Sheila Eldridge, Maureen Hartley, Margaret Pearce and their families were all around then and formed the first Coldean Women's Institute. Reading your letters - especially Claire Pearce (as was) from Dubai - has brought back many memories.

Ah...Auntie Joyce! How are you? Many happy years spent in Park Road, my Grandad living a few doors down was lovely, trotting down with his dinner in the little red bag or Matthew racing it down on his bike! Coldean School then Falmer -fab years!

What a great web site, and what wonderful memories!
My family lived in Hawkhust Road from 1952 to 1986, and I attended Coldean and then Stanmer Schools. I remember Mr Brown the caretaker as my mum worked at the school as a cleaner for a short while, she's 86 now and still going strong. Most families arrived together and had young children so there was never a shortage of things to do and kids to play with. Nobody had much money so we contented ourselves with playing in Stanmer woods and organising huge football games until it got dark and our parents called us in. We spent the whole of the summer on Brighton beach, going to the pie shop in St James's Street to buy Beano pies for our lunch. I remember friends like Billy Pollard, Barry Ward, the Gregsons, Dave Ballard, Ian and Norman Cox, Lee Dodd and Phillip Jouanadies (never could spell that name) and after leaving school many of us formed the Stanmer Old Boys football team. I seem to remember we were the kids who built the first huge bonfire on the green between Haig Avenue and Hawkhurst Road, a tradition carried on by numerous generations of local children for many years after. In later years we started going to Brighton Suite on Saturday nights and I can well remember walking home on numerous occasions because we had spent our bus fare on Watneys Red Barrel!  I got married in 1970 and moved away, now living in Spain, so lost contact with these old friends, but it's lovely to read all these comments about a bygone age when our lives were less materialistic and somehow happier for it.