Memories

My Earliest memory, is when my sister was born. I was three, and remember the doctor coming to the house.

My school days were very happy times and I remember them with affection, from Primary right through to Secondary.

Remembering my school days though, reminds me of the only time I got the cane, (it blooming well hurt!)

After a year looking for work, I started my first job in the farm. An important milestone in my life.  At the age of twenty one, I passed my driving test, after the second time of trying.

I bought my first car, a Morris 8, for the princely sum of twelve pound ten shillings.

I started in Youth Work at the age of twenty one, when I became voluntary leader of the village Youth Club.
Round about the same time I took an interest in amateur dramatis, and joined the nearest group in North Hykeham.

During my Youth Club and acting days, I appeared as a clown, in a solo performance, in the Albert Hall.

In 1970 I left work to embark on a GCE “O” Level course at Lincoln Further Education College.

In 1971 I became an uncle for the first time, when my sister gave birth to my nephew, Martin.

Between 1974 and 1976 I attended the YMCA Training College in Walthamstow. I had a great time as a student.

My wonderful memory of that time was my graduation day, and receiving my certificate from my tutor Joan Tash.

Whilst at College, I caught the travelling “bug” and made my first trip abroad, to Germany and Italy.

My most memorable trip abroad in 1976 was to India, as part of a student group, to study poverty.

All my posts within the YMCA have been memorable. Barnard Castle, Lincoln, Derby, Croydon, but the most memorable is Ealing.

2000 saw me on my first ever trip to the United States, to attend a YMCA conference in San Diego.

In 2005, I was really proud to be enrolled as President of the Association of Professional Staff of YMCA’s.

My retirement after 31 years working for the YMCA was a very memorable occasion.

My most endearing memory is coming to Greenford and Holy Cross, and all the wonderful friends I have made over the 14 years. I have loads of memories of Holy Cross, as Church Warden, School Governor and so many more, too numerous to fit into this short list. I must mention my leaving party though, which was extra special and where a lot of love was shown.

The last memory did warrant more than thirty words (Editor) hope you will allow them!

Ray Allen