A RETIRED police diver is planning to go back to school - with a party of former pupils.

Former Leigh Boys' Grammar School student John Fairclough is organising a trip round the Manchester Road classrooms on Friday, July 20.

Mr Fairclough, who lived in Green Lane, Leigh, and is now an Adlington resident, was a pupil in the '60s and is a regular guest at the Old Leighians' Association annual dinners.

At the last event, he told old pals he had revisited their former base, now merged with the former Manchester Road Secondary School, to become Bedford High, and was amazed at the difference.

Some decided they too would like to relive their schoolboy memories.

Mr Fairclough said: "When I was with the police diving team, I was asked to do a lecture at Bedford High, and when I saw the changes, I was absolutely gobsmacked. It was weird to see girls in the once all-male domain.

"I've fixed up a visit for any old boy who would like to go back."

Anyone interested in joining the visit should meet at The Bowling Green, Manchester Road, at 11.45am for lunch.

The school will be empty and visitors have the freedom to roam around the old classrooms until 3pm.

For further details contact Mr Fairclough on 01257 482265 or e-mail jac@fairclough23.freeserve.co.uk.