Mr. E.F.Rigby

From Alan Burrows (FGS 1955-1961) in Australia:

I have many memories of life in the green and black of Farnworth Grammar School and learning of the recent sad loss of Mr Rigby a few of them were revisited.

As a naive little boy of barely 11, I was a self-made victim in a case of mistaken identity. Each morning for my first two weeks as a `third' a man similar in build and appearance to Mr Rigby would walk past the front of the school as I was scurrying for the boys' entrance. Dutifully I touched my cap and said `Good morning, Sir' to this mysterious imposter, who, by the end of the said period sported a wry smile as we passed. It didn't occur to me until years later that he was walking in the opposite direction, past the school towards Moses Gate. My only hope is that my embarrassing gaffe left him with the impression that FGS pupils were particularly polite.

However, on to the real Mr Rigby. I quickly learned that he was a kind and dedicated man and I can think of few teachers whose passion for their chosen subject surpassed that of the delightful Trigger. He won respect without demanding it. I admit though when it came to French I was a slow learner and probably elicited more than a few mutterings of `sacre bleu'. But in true snail-like fashion, we persisted; I with the language , he with me, and in the end I did manage to pass GCE `O' level in French.

There was one occasion, I was reminded recently by ex-classmate Nona Booth, that we were both in trouble with the indomitable Mr Stevens who accused us of colluding over some piece of homework. This, of course, was absolutely untrue (I tell myself). The true circumstance has been lost in the mist of time but we were both ordered to wait outside the male staff room. As we stood outside waiting to learn our fate Trigger, who was then our form teacher, breezed towards the door and said `What are you two doing here?' After we explained, Trigger, with a glint in his eye and a hint of that distinctive smile, said (words to effect) `Go away, you leave Mr Stevens to me!' We heard no more about it. It's only a matter of weeks since Nona and I recalled the incident and rekindled fond memories of this remarkable teacher.

Mr Rigby, if I still had my school cap I would doff it to you, Sir! Au revoir.

From:
Alan Laking (FGS 1947-1951) in Tenerife Spain
Brian Laking (FGS 1946-1952) in Bolton
Joan Laking (FGS 1952-1958) in Bolton:

It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Evelyn Rigby. We offer our condolences and sympathy to Lillian and hope that she is able to find some comfort from his memory and indeed Lillians' having touched upon so many lives affectionately.
Our sincere condolences and good wishes for the future.

From Bernard Tennant (FGS 1942-1947)
in Reading:

I remember Evelyn Rigby from my first year at FGS in 1942 when he was in the Sixth Form. In my own case, I can clearly recall how helpful and considerate he always was with us first-year pupils in bedding us down in the ways of FGS. Obviously, he must have kept that same consideration throughout his distinguished career at FGS from the respect in which he was so obviously held by the many pupils he taught.

From Beryl Cooper (FGS 1955 - 1962, now Beryl Green) in Wrawby, North Lincs:

Although I did not find French easy and probably for that reason did not enjoy it, I continued French to 'A' level. However, Trigger gave me the precious ability to communicate with others in their own language and words cannot convey my gratitude for that.
My sincere sympathy to Lilian, who also taught me History.

From Edna Bamblin
(was Miss Lowe, FGS colleague and friend):

Fond Memories of Mr Rigby from a good friend and colleague.
Edna M.Bamblin and family

From Brenda Shaw
(FGS 1956-1961, now Brenda Wilson):

I was taught by Mr Rigby who gave me the start of an interest in French which is now well used on our travels in France.
Mrs Rigby also taught me History.
Sincere condolences from myself and family.

From Bernard Fray (FGS 1955-1962)
Priest in the parish of St Mary the Virgin, Micklefield, on the outskirts of E.Leeds.

I’m sure we all at FGS have memories of our school days. I was there from 1955-62. It sounds such a long period in one’s life and yet thinking back, it went so quickly. I’m sure there was a great deal of happiness, security and fun, despite the strictness and discipline we all benefited from.

My first memory of Trigger was when I visited the school from my junior school, in order to practise “Jerusalem” and other items, to be sung in Farnworth Park on Coronation Day. I was very impressed by the musical skills of the man who played the piano, only to find out later, when I started at the school, that this same man was my French teacher.

I enjoyed French, and since then have developed a love of languages as a result. I put it down to Trigger’s teaching.

My friend and I used to have a “bet” about how many suits he would wear each week. He seemed to have an endless number of very stylish items, and I think we got through a 2 week period without repeating the same suit! What funny things teachers have to be aware of-or not!!

I did French until GCE (as it was) and then studied the sciences in the sixth form, so that was the end of my contact with Trigger, although I do recall meeting him almost outside my parents’ house in Bridgeman St, where he used to park his car. This was many years after I had left and yet he still knew me and remembered my name.

The closure of the school as such, and its subsequent demolition must have been a blow to him. After all, as pupil and teacher, it must have been close on half a century of connection with that place. It is to people such as him that we all owe a debt of gratitude. I send my love and condolences to Lilian (who taught me history), and to his son, and am privileged to be able to write this brief tribute.

From Bill Warburton (FGS 1936-1943)
in Bulley, nr. Gloucester:

I was very sorry to read your e-mail regarding the death of one of my old form mates Evelyn Rigby, we spent our school life at FGS in the same form.

Evelyn was never known as "Trigger" in my time, he must have gained it in his teaching and headmaster days. I am probably one of a diminishing number who was a form mate of Evelyn or should I say,with no disrespect, "Rigor mortis" as was his nickname. He will be missed by many ex-FGS pupils,and especially his wife.

From Robert (Bob) Fielding (FGS 1955-1962)
in St. Anne's on Sea, Lancs:

I was very saddened to hear of Mr Rigby's death. I suppose it comes to us all eventually though.

It is good to hear that Mrs. Rigby is still going strong. They married during my time at the school and I was taught by both of them. Although I became an engineer in the end, my best marks at 'O' level were in French and History, so that must say something about their teaching skills.

I have fond memories of my years at FGS and of all the teaching staff (we were privileged) and especially of the Rigbys. I still maintain my fascination with languages and always make an attempt to learn some of the local lingo when holidaying abroad.

Please pass my best wishes to Mrs Rigby (and also from my Mother, whom she knew).

From Carole Holden (FGS 1953-1958, now Carole Cullen) in Australia:

I was saddened to hear of Trigger's passing and remember well his flowing black gown and that of Miss Worthington billowing out behind them both as they went about their dedicated duties. It was a time of rejoicing when they married and although neither of them taught me, they certainly left their impression in the clear images which came flooding back of very happy schooldays.

From Margaret (Peggy) Durose (FGS 1956-1961, now Peggy Webster) in Bolton:

I have just read that 'Trigger' has passed away. Mr & Mrs Rigby did not live too far from me and I did see them occasionally from a distance.

I left FGS in 1961 but have never forgotten you both, you gave me a reference once when I was desperate for pennies and needed a job — I got it and have been forever grateful to you both for being so kind.

I am sad that Mr Rigby died, he was a good man. He always called me Joan (he went to school with my aunt Joan!) He will be sadly missed.

Deepest sympathies to Mrs Rigby who also used to teach me history.

From Deirdre Seddon (FGS 1958-1966, now Deirdre Windsor) in Nottingham:

We didn't always see eye to eye but he was a wonderful teacher.

From Bill Clarke (FGS 1948-1955) in Paris:

"Trigger" Rigby was there throughout my seven years in the School and Miss Worthington (as she was then was) was my History teacher. I liked them both very much.

The only tale I can remember is nothing to do with French: I remember the day I had to audition for the school choir. I went into a room where Trigger was sitting at the piano ready to play. I was desperate not to be selected, although I must have been able to sing a bit as I was in the Choir at Peel Church. He gave me a piece to sing and started to play. I gave him my best impression of a tomcat howling away. He gave me a weary look and asked if I had a cold — he'd seen it all before. The following week the results were pinned on the board and I wasn't in the choir but there was my name in the Chorus that sang at special functions, Speech Day, etc. I groaned.

He was a very good teacher, cheerful but certainly could be strict. At the time I had no idea he had been at the school as a pupil. I learned that years later from your website.

From Colin Regan (FGS 1967-1973) in Burtonwood, Cheshire (FGS Head Boy 1973):

I was very sorry to hear of '' Triggers '' passing and offer my sincere condolences to his widow.

Time dims the memory but my school days are something that stay with me. I had the pleasure of being taught French by Mr Rigby for two years during my time at FGS which was 1967 through to 1973.  

Never being the most studious of pupils I often felt the wrath of the likes of Mr Stevens, Mr Wilkinson and Mr Piper but I remember enjoying Mr Rigby's style of teaching and the manner in which he dealt with pupils. I also recall he had a wicked sense of humour which kept us all highly amused.

He will be sadly missed but remembered with a great deal of fondness.

From Colin Tinsley (FGS 1952 - 1959) in Australia:

Yes, I remember "Trigger" well. He taught me French Grammar and French Translation when I was in Lower IVA in 1953.

Miss Worthington (Phoebe?) also taught me History in Lower IVA ; Upper 1VA and Lower VA from 1953 to 1956.

Please accept my condolences and happy memories.

From Dave Collier (FGS 1977 - 1982/3) in Edgworth:

I received a copy of your email via my father. Not that that is of much interest in itself I suppose.

However, what may be of interest is that Mr Rigby taught both my father and myself - obviously many years apart and we both have similar memories of his lessons at Farnworth Grammar School. For my part, I was a pupil there from 1977 and even now I can remember being told about "Trigger" by my Dad before I even started. Then I was told about him by other pupils who were due to start FGS that September. His reputation, his teaching ability in French and his presence in the classroom were legendary.

On a personal note, there was something unifying about the fact that both I and my father were taught by the same man, under the same Headmaster.

Thanks Trigger - you made a difference not only to education, but to our family through generations.

From Derek Heywood (FGS 1945-1952)
in Cheadle Hulme:

I first met Trigger when he managed the 2nd XI and tried to instruct me in French in the lower Sixth — he quickly came to the conclusion that I was better as a goalkeeper than as a linguist.

The next time we met was when he came with Fibi to my 21st. Here I must apologise — I had no idea of his background in classical music and can only imagine his feelings at having to endure Joseph Locke performing while "overtired and emotional" at the Lido at Bolton!

Evelyn, thanks for the memories. You were a great Farnworthian.

From Gordon Shaw (FGS 1953 -1960)
in Charlotte, N.Carolina, USA (FGS Head Boy 1960):

It is with sadness that I recently heard of the death of “Trigger” and I and my wife, would like to offer to you our sincere condolences at this time.

I hope and trust that the thoughts and comments you receive will help sustain and define Trigger’s achievements during his life as “The French Teacher”, respected by those small boys, (and girls) who were in awe of his ability to instantly bring the class to attention, just by walking in the door, saying “Bon jour!” and “Ouvrez vous les livres!”. Such an impression, that even now I recollect some of his greetings. I also remember, at least, some of your history lessons, and know that somewhere in my mass of papers I have the old FGS report cards with insightful and meaningful comments from you both.

Yours sincerely
Gordon (& Beryl) Shaw

From Eric Baddeley (1945 - 1950)
in Chippenham, Wilts:

Sad news indeed. "Trigger" was not one of my teachers although I do remember him - his wife, Lilian, was my form mistress in my last year (UVa,1949/50) and I should, therefore, be pleased to add my name to the compilation of condolences.

From Harry Jack (FGS 1945-1950) in Edinburgh:

As I was never taught by either Mr Rigby or Miss Worthington, there isn't much I could say. Also, of course, I know there's nothing at all I can say that would be in any way helpful to Mrs Rigby — except that, more than sixty years later, I have clear and pleasant memories of both of them and send her my sincere condolences.

From Joan Bottomley (FGS 1948-1952,
now Joan Coope) in Over Hulton, nr. Bolton:

Although Mr Rigby did not teach me, I wish to pass on my condolences to Mrs Rigby in the hope that she might find some comfort in knowing the regard in which he was held.

From Hazel McIntyre (FGS 1978-1983,
now Hazel McCallum) in Stoneclough:

Although I didn't have Mr Rigby specifically for lessons, he did take us sometimes for revision classes or as stand-in for our usual teacher.

I remember Mr Rigby as a quiet and reassuring man who seemed always to have a calm and gentle way about him. I especially remember how his smile lit up his face (and we didn't often seem to see our teachers smiling) and his low chuckle on hearing yet another ridiculous anwer to a simple question.

I am certain that Trigger will rest in absolute peace, such was his nature on this side of the ether.

Please send my condolences to his family, and I hope they can take some comfort from the fact that our affection for Trigger has not dimmed over the years.

From Jeanette Greaves (FGS 1975-1982) in Lostock Hall, nr. Preston:

First of all, my condolences and sympathies to Lilian.

I started at FGS in 1975, and had no experience at all of any language but English. I was nervous and excited about learning French, it felt as if I was being admitted into a secret club where I could talk to my friends without our parents understanding a word we said. I remember Trigger's patience with us, the way he'd repeat things until we got the message, the twitch of his mouth as yet another broad Farnworth accent mangled the French language. He was a quiet and contained teacher, who occasionally used sarcasm to control the worst mannered in the class, but never had to resort to raising his voice or using violence. Indeed, when some of the boys pushed their luck, his voice would actually go quieter, so that they knew that they'd reached the limit. He had great classroom skills, and I was genuinely fond of him.

From Jim Court (FGS 1955 - 1960) in Stockport:

It is with great fondness I recall Mr Rigby during my time at FGS between 1955 and 1960 - always a man with a great passion for his work.
Condolences
Jim Court

From Elsie Jolly (FGS 1946-1953, now Joy Croxon) in Scotland:

I certainly remember Mr.Rigby, I was at the school from 1946 to 1953 and Mr Rigby tried desperately to teach me Latin with some success as I actually managed to get an O level in the subject and some of it has stuck with me until now ( quite useful in crossword puzzles at times).I used to be Elsie Jolly in those dim and far off days.

And I would like to pass my condolences to Mrs Rigby whom I also remember as Miss Worthington.

From Keith Seddon, (FGS 1947-1954),High Peak, Derbyshire:

"Trigger" was my teacher for French in my first year at FGS. His form-room at that time was to the right of the stage and he used to stand in the doorway of that room for assembly, which ensured that we Thirds daily heard his impressive bass voice. I seem to remember that he joined "Sally" in running the choir, of which I was a reluctant member until my voice broke.

He was the stage manager for the annual play, which was usually the set book for the School Certificate and, later, GCE O-level English examination. He always seemed remarkably unruffled by this job.

I remember Lilian Worthington, she taught me for two or three years, and I wish her well.

From Les Drury (FGS 1955-1962) in New Zealand:

Dear Lillian,
I attended FGS when you and Mr Rigby were married. Later, you were my L6th form mistress and Mr Rigby was my U6th form master. I live across the world, but memories know no distance, and I have vivid memories of you both: Mr Rigby with his dapper, gentlemanly ways and you with your gentle encouragement. May he rest in peace and may you be comforted knowing many people care.
Les Drury 1955 - 62.

From Peter Castle (FGS 1957-1962) in Australia:

Sincere condolences.

From Les Rothwell (FGS 1948 - 1954) in Worsley:

I remember Mr.Rigby well, he was my first French teacher and was our form teacher in Lower IVb. One thing I remember most was when he had an enormous motor-bike (possibly a Triumph & it seemed enormous at the time) this would be in the early fifties. We were all jealous of this 'bike, he used to park it near the refectory and it always attracted a crowd of admirers.

It's very sad that another connection with the old school has gone, I send heartfelt condolences to Mrs.Rigby, who was my history teacher at that time - Miss Worthington then, of course.

From Marlene Eglon (FGS 1949-1954,
now Marlene Houghton) in Greater London:

I am sad to hear that Trigger passed away recently. Although he never taught me I remember him as one of the inspirational group of young teachers who were at FGS when I was there: they include Miss Worthington, Edna Lowe (my form teacher), Mr Hill, Miss Heather and Jonny Baxter. I was also inspired by Mr Rice the Head Teacher. Some of the older teachers were not that bad either!

I was surprised to read that Trigger had been an ex-pupil. I never knew that! I do know we watched the blossoming relationship between him and Lillian Worthington. Who would have realised that the match would continue over so many years? I am sure he will be missed.

From Vera Berry (FGS1953-1960, now Vera Berry Burrows) in Queensland, Australia:

Mr Rigby was the first French teacher I had and I didn't appreciate how good a teacher he had been until much later when I was a teacher myself. He was also my form teacher in the Sixth Form and gave the members of that class the space and time we needed to mature as students and as people. For my part, my language skills didn't reflect his endeavours to get me to understand L'Avare and Le Cid and he didn't argue when I asked to leave 'A'-level French to the more able!

I send my sincere condolences to Mrs Rigby and hope that she will find comfort in the fond memories we have of her husband. RIP Mr Rigby.

From Mildred Earles (FGS 1952-1957,
now Mildred Batstone) in Victoria, Australia:

I was incredibly saddened to hear of Mr. Rigby's passing and am honoured to pay tribute to "Trigger"and his legacy. He will be forever remembered by me, for his kindness, his approachability and passion for his life work. Nothing was ever "too much trouble" for Mr. Rigby; he was available to lend a hand whenever it was needed and always with a smile. and when I look back on my schooldays and the school photographs I treasure, it is with great fondness that I remember him.

Being taught French by "Trigger" ignited in me a love of that language which still exists today. He was an outstanding teacher who made lessons fun. He didn't only see things for what they are, but had the gift of seeing things for what they could be. His enthusiasm for teaching helped many pupils achieve when they were failing - my own best friend Elizabeth was an example of his success. French didn't come easy to her and having received a poor mark for just about every piece of work she submitted, I remember she and I approached "Trigger" who gave her such encouragement that she was able to lift enormously and pass the subject with flying colours.

Mr. Rigby was the object of many a young girl's fluttering heart but Miss Worthington was the lady who won it. What a perfect match, my two favourite teachers!

RIP "Trigger", you deserve it.

From Nona Booth (FGS 1955 - 1960,
now Nona Tattersall) in Kearsley:

Trigger was my French teacher for the full five years and I was very grateful for that. He so enjoyed being form master to us when we were Upper Four A that he asked (so he said) if he could have us again in the Lower Fifth. I remember him asking me to dance at one Christmas Party, I was thrilled to bits!

I am sorry to hear of his death and send Mrs Rigby my sincere condolences.

From Peter Pendlebury (FGS 19.. - 19..)

Just read about the passing of Mr Rigby, please pass on my condolences. My memory of him is a little vague, however I remember seeing him in passing while in school.

From Norman Lomas (FGS 1946 - 19??):

I would like to send my sincere condolences to Mrs Rigby, I started at FGS in Sept 1946 in form U111Beta. I think Mr Rigby started the same day and he was our form master.

French was never one of my strong subjects so I can't say that I knew him really well, but it is always sad to hear of the death of one of our old teachers, particularly one who served so long at FGS.

From Philip Radcliffe (1943-1950)
in Fernilee, nr. Buxton.

I came to know Evelyn not so much as a teacher but as a friend. I am saddened to learn of his passing and would like to send my sincere condolences to Lilian, for whom together with Edna Lowe I had a similar sense of personal affection.

I last bumped ino Evelyn and Lilian on a sunny day at a garden centre in Bolton - and he was his usual affable and smiling self. One of many happy memories!

From Ray Smith (FGS 1945 - 1950) in New Zealand:

I offer my deepest condolences to Lilian on the passing of Evelyn.

I have a lasting impression of him (Mr Rigby, as I knew him) telling me I could do a lot better with my French if I would only try. That statement is in my Report Book. It was only later that I realised he was right.

I was one of his students when I was in Form L IV beta in 1947 aged 13, but even now at the age of 76 I can still see him, in his black gown, stood in front of the blackboard with eyes in the back of his head.

From Veronica Baillie (FGS 1954-1969,
now Veronica Broadhurst) in Walkden:

My condolences to Mrs Lilian Rigby. I remember 'Trigger' with affection, also Lilian who took me for history.

Please also accept condolences from my friend Ann Gledhill

From Robin Aston (FGS 1953 - 1960) in Oxfordshire:

Many thanks for including me in the list of ex-FGS pupils asked to contribute to "Triggers" e-Book of Condolences. In fact I visited the FGS website only a few days ago and read the news about his recent death. He was part of the fabric at the Old School and in addition to being my initial introduction to French he was also outside school a friend of my family.

His father was the Chief Electrical Engineer at Prestwich Mill in Long Causeway where my late grandfather Ben Hesketh M.B.E. was the Managing Director. Ben was the Chairman of the School Governors during part of the fifties.

His parents owned a caravan on a lovely site just north of Garstang and we often stayed there during the summer holidays, and later my grandparents decided to buy their own caravan within a few yards of the Rigby's caravan. Therefore, thanks to Trigger and his family, I enjoyed many happy times in a beautiful part of the UK.

Trigger's wife Lillian Worthington was my history teacher for a few years and thanks to her and also Trigger I managed to pass both my History and French G.C.E. 'O'-level exams. A surprise to all concerned!! Miss Worthington, or "Phoebe" as she was affectionately known, along with Miss Baggs organised many school trips to France and my first experience of foreign travel was thanks to them - we stayed somewhere in Brittany for a couple of weeks. Can't remember the details although I still have a few snapshots taken on my 'state of the art' Brownie camera.

Sorry to ramble on so, but it does not take much to get my memory cells in gear, but I genuinely want to offer Mrs Rigby my sincere condolences and wish her well for the future. Had I known earlier about Trigger's death I would have made a big effort to attend the funeral even though I now live down in the depths of rural Oxfordshire

Kind regards - Robin Aston

From Wendy Morris (FGS 1965 - 1970, now Wendy Kerrigan) in Little Lever:

Mr Rigby taught me French, I think in my second year. He was a very good teacher. My memory of him is his teacher's gown swishing past me as he walked up and down the rows of desks.

He used to live across the road from my Uncle George (Hughes) and Auntie Hilda (née Lee) in (I think) Smithills Drive and my uncle used to tease me that he would tell Mr Rigby if I didn't behave myself.

Condolences to Mrs Rigby.

From Michael Haynes (FGS 1955-1962) in Farnworth:

Miss Worthington, I remember Mr Rigby with great fondness and affection, and I am sorry he has died. I am sure he will still be forever with you in your thoughts. He was always fair, never too much one way or the other. Having done some supply teaching myself in later life, I realise how difficult it is to strike the right balance.

My friend Frank Thornley and I were reminiscing about school days when we received the email. I remember you going to a town centre bookshop one Saturday morning to help us make an appropriate choice of books with our prize book tokens, and how you totally disapproved of Thornley's very inappropriate first choices!

On holiday last year in Benidorm, how I wished I could have remembered at least a quarter of the French Mr Rigby taught me, when I was trying to make conversation with a Frenchman who I mistook for an old (British) acquaintance.

Best wishes, Michael Haynes

From 'Shez' Sherratt (FGS 1975 - 1980) in Bromley Cross:

French wasn't my favourite subject, but I only ever had his class in the first year and I failed my 'O'-level. That said I remember his tweed jackets, the smell of pipe tobacco and his gentle nature. Les has pointed out his history with FGS, something I knew nothing of. With that kind of loyalty and commitment to an institution that that I love dearly I give my condolence to all surviving members of the family. He was a quiet man, kind and humble.

When I look back, the balcony had all the school panoramic pictures on the wall, I do believe that he was on all of them.

I also want to make a confession and if you can find a space in your booklet I would like to add this, In the hope that it might make Lilian laugh — I HATED FRENCH!

In a recent post on the other FGS website, just prior to Mr. Rigby's passing I suggested that Trigger should now be holding conferences on sleep apnea (In French), whereupon a fellow student translated this into French :
SHEZ:
Mr Rigby should be doing lectures on Sleep Apnea. (In French):
WENDY:
M. Rigby devrait faire des conférences sur l'apnée du sommeil.

Damn Girl !! obviously more French stuck with you more than it did with me — "je m'appel Numpty" and I probably got that wrong too.
LOL Shez - I actually loved French.

A great acedemic institution as ours was, we have to understand that the individual is only as great as the whole, but as a whole it would not have survived without the likes of Trigger. I may not have liked his classes but many did. His dedication was outstanding.

Mr Rigby, this school will only die when there are none of us left.
Many thanks,
Shez.

From Frank Thornley (FGS 1955 - 1962)
in Hilton, Yarm, Teesside:

I was a raggy-assed working class young lad who lived on a council estate in Farnworth.

In 1955, rather like Saul of Tarsus on the Damascus road, I had a life-changing experience — I passed my 11+ exam and won a place at the Grammar School, Farnworth. There I had the privilege of meeting, and being associated with, a host of very fine teachers. Amongst whom, and two of the finest were, of course, Mr. & Mrs. E.F.Rigby.

On entering the school I was initially taught French by Mr. Colin Prior during my first year. Although I wasn't actually taught by Miss Worthington (as Mrs. Rigby was at this stage) during my first year, we first met on a school trip to the Loire valley in summer 1956.

In my second year at school Mr. Rigby taught us French, and, thereafter right up to 'O'-level and Mrs. Rigby taught us History to the same standard. Mrs. Rigby demonstrated to me, in a very real way, the value of graciousness, kindness, forbearance and forgiveness, and Mr. Rigby instilled in me his love of France, its language, its people and its places.

I'm indebted to both of them for all that they did for me.

From Roy Eglon (FGS 1947-1952) in Valencia, Spain:

I remember Trigger well. He was my French teacher for most of my years at FGS. He was a kind and understanding gentleman. Some of the boys tried to wind him up at times, but he always remained calm and would not succumb to pressure.

He always seemed proud of the fact that he was a former FGS pupil. I recall his thick shock of black hair, and the fact that he always went to France for holidays on his motorbike, which I think was an AJS.

My condolences to Mrs. Rigby, whom I also remember, although I do not recall her teaching me.

From Shirley Ivers (FGS 1968 - 1973,
now Shirley Stansfield) in Kearsley:

I have been flicking through the website pages once again, and I saw the death of Evelyn Rigby.

I wanted to add that he once told me that 'there is no such thing as a Lancashire-French accent.' I still got my oral GCE though!!!!

Unfortunately the following arrived
too late to be included in the booklet:

From Maureen Wallwork (now Maureen Taylor):