Burscough teacher publishes her memoirs

Nov 1 2012 by Jamie Bowman, Ormskirk Advertiser

A RETIRED Burscough teacher has written a book telling the story of her unusual Lancastrian upbringing.

Norma Mudd, of Richmond Avenue, Burscough, was born in Bolton in the mid-thirties.

Her three siblings were all adults at the time of Norma’s birth and she lived through all the trials and triumphs of World War II with them, including the evacuation of brother Harry from Dunkirk.

Norma’s memoirs, titled ‘Arry’s Big Swiss, go on to tell the story of Norma’s school days when she became the first member of her family to go to Grammar School, before embarking on a career in teaching which saw her teach at both Burscough Methodist School and Southport College.

Norma said: “Much of the humour in the book involves my dad ‘Arry.

“He was stubborn and definitely not politically correct, but he was one of those real Lancashire characters.”

The book climaxes with her move to Burscough in the late 1960s, a place Norma knew well from her dad’s regular trips to the area.

“’Arry used to go fishing in Burscough,” said Norma, who has written the book under the pseudonym Kate Croston.

“I remember he was especially fond of the rum he used to purchase from The Packet House next to the canal!”

After leaving Burscough Methodist School, Norma went on to teach at Southport College from 1978 until 1996.

“I think the book may be of special interest to some of the staff and former students at Southport College,” said Norma.

Despite now being retired, Norma continues to be involved in teaching and has written a number of publications after studying for a Ph.D in Education.

Norma also continues to volunteer at a number of Burscough primary schools where she helps children with their reading.

‘Arry’s Big Swiss is available from Broadhurst’s in Southport.