Banstead Village

1953 Coronation Village School celebrations

Family preparations for the 1953 Coronation celebrations at the Village school.

My name is Christopher Bailey. I attended Banstead Village School, both Infants and Primary schools, between1950 and 1961. My elder sister Sylvia and younger brother John also attended. We lived in Harbourfield Road until we “fled the nest”.

One of my abiding memories is of a pageant to celebrate the 1953 Coronation when pupils were dressed as historical characters. A parade took place in part of the High Street – including what was known then, and maybe now, as Oak Timbers. It was a very memorable event.

This photo shows my younger brother John and I in Roman togas, and sister Sylvia dressed as Catherine of Aragon. All costumes made by my mother whose dressmaking skills were quite advanced.

See also picture #640 for a group photo of all those who took part.