Former pupils of Pennoyer’s School, in Pulham St Mary, reconnect after decades

Old school mates, some of whom forged friendships 70 years ago, have been given the chance to reconnect at a special event.

A reunion and meal for former pupils at Pennoyer’s School, in Pulham St Mary, was held at the Pennoyer Centre on Saturday and Sunday.

The event was set up by former student Carrie Hayes in the hopes of allowing people who may not have seen each other for decades to catch up while also gathering memories for a display at the café.

The Pennoyer Centre sits on the site of the former school, which shut in 1988.

Carrie was delighted with the turn-out.

Some attendees started school around 1955, while the oldest was at Pennoyer’s 80 years ago, she said.

She said: “I initially wanted to meet friends to celebrate our 50th birthdays but with help from Pennoyer’s staff and volunteers we have new exhibition boards detailing the history of the school.

“We also had out archive photos of the school and village life, as well as an original desk and school work.

“In total, 50 pupils attended over the two days, ranging from Alec Loome who attended in the 1940s and Krystle Hunt who was in Reception when the school closed.

“Although many people still live locally, we found out that some pupils are now in Australia.”

Among the distinguished guests were the family of Albert Pleasants, the school’s longest serving headmaster between 1888 and 1923 and Jeff Brown, who led the school when it shut.

Mr Pleasants’ granddaughter Jill Granger attended alongside her son Glen, daughter-in-law Karen and Jill’s granddaughter Charlotte.

Jill said: “Visiting the Pennoyer Centre at the reunion was a delight. Everyone was so friendly and made us feel very welcome.

“This centre acknowledging days gone by and the people who made it happen is wonderful.

“ I felt so proud to be a part of this wonderful place. It has been an emotional journey but one I am so happy about.”

Carrie hoped the reunion would become an annual event.

Alan Brett, a volunteer, dazzled attendees with a video showing the school being transformed into the café.

Janis Oldman, who left Pennoyer’s in 1964, said old photos brought back lots of happy memories.

Janis said: “I remember my school days with huge affection and meeting up with the boy who sat behind me in class was an added bonus.”

James Hunt, aged eight when the school shut, thanked the organisers for a lovely weekend.

He added: “We thoroughly enjoyed it.

“I had never seen a picture of my family when they were at school before, but not only that I heard some lovely stories as well."

Sheila King, trustee of The Pennoyer’s Centre, said it was wonderful to see so many people come together for the reunion.

The school began life in 1674 when wealthy merchant William Pennoyer left money in his will to start a free school.

Sheila added: “It is testament to the special place Pennoyer’s School held in the community for over 300 years.

“Friendships that were formed at Pennoyer’s School up to 70 years ago were celebrated in style this weekend.

“What a heartwarming experience it was.”