Class 4P, Sheerness Secondary Boys School 1953. The lads would have been between 14 and 15 considering their futures.

How did things pan out? Were ambitions realised?

Brian Lambkin who loaned us the picture is happy with his life and from time to time meets up with old school pals to compare notes.

“Some of the boys in the picture have not been so lucky,” he said. “We know at least four who have died – George Parlane, Ted Collins, Derek Keep and Robert Keen.

“Some have emigrated, some made the forces a career, but thinking back 56 years it would be good to know if memories of school days inspired them.”

Michael Wills was one classmate who excelled at cricket, football and music, but regarded those skills as hobbies. He was practical -– proud of the ironing board made in woodwork class – still in use by his 97-year-old mother.

“School discipline was harsher then but I think it did us good. We were taught respect, and in return we were encouraged to reach our potential.” He said.

Do the others in the Class of '53 share his views?

They are Graham Glass, Ron Hammet, Arthur Winch, Len Niucholls, Dave Plumb, Sta Cork, rthur Lukey, Brian Newman, Terry Holkham,Derek Hayward, Len Halls, Alan Heard, Robin Pape, Stan Cruickshank, Dave Bradley, Gerald Lewry, Sam Coster, Brian Sutton, Terry Bramer John Wybourn, Alan Harvey, Bubbles Walder, Alan Kenyon,Frank Bridges. Ken Webb, Bill Gilson and Ted Mitchell.