Unite the union (Harrogate Bus Worker’s Branch) are hosting a party/reunion to mark the retirement of fitter David Blackwood and driver Bill Speed. We are also celebrating the amazing achievement of David’s 50 years service with the company. He started at Central Works in 1961 at the age of 15 and remains a fitter at Harrogate depot.

Bill Speed began his 40-year career with Lincolnshire Road Car, before transferring to WYRCC at York depot in 1986, then Wetherby depot and finally Harrogate after the closure of Wetherby in 1990.

We would welcome all former friends and colleagues of either David or Bill, but please contact Daniel Maguire by telephone on 01423 507243 or email to daniel@uniteharrogate.org.uk to confirm attendance for food etc. Please bring any photos and stories you have!

The party is being held on Saturday 13th August from 7.30pm at the Harrogate Catholic Club on Robert Street in Harrogate town centre.

Thanks, and best wishes
Daniel Maguire…… (On behalf of UNITE, Harrogate bus worker’s branch.)

Bill Thorne driver, Audrey and Laura clippies, and Harold (Jet) Rumsey. In 1961 as far as Jim can remember.

Jim & Eileen Pitchforth.

Very sad to report the death of ex-Bradford driver GEORGE LUND on Thursday 17th of November, aged 84 years.

Funeral on Monday 28th November, Rawdon Cemetary at 3pm.

Sad to announce the death of ex-conductress MARY O’BRIEN.
Funeral:- 14.00 (2pm) on Wednesday 2nd of November at
St Michael’s Church, Cottingley.

Former driver BARRY ASQUITH died yesterday, 23rd of October.

Funeral:- 1.30, Wednesday 2nd of November at Rawdon Crematorium.

The driver (left) in this photo is Geoff Williams, the brother of Ivor Williams.

L to R…Colin G Smith,  Jim Pitchforth,  Harold Rumsey,  Jock Cole  Jackie Leighton

Jim Pitchforth & Harry Briggs

WYRCC Reunion 2011

Yet another great reunion on Saturday the 15^th.

The turnout was very good, about the same as last year. Most of the regulars turned in, plus Jim & Eileen Pitchforth. Jim worked on the WYRCC from the midd 50’s into the early 60’s. Also nice seeing Darren Martin, ex- Leeds depot, there this year.

A huge “Thank you” to Sarah Jane Leahy and my daughter Caroline for selling raffle tickets again this year, they’re a great team. Also to Steve Smith (Leo Kenny) for the entertainment, very professional as always, thanks Steve.

The biggest thank you goes to my wife, Karen. Her selfless determination to keep the Reunion alive, even when she’s not too well, showed again this year. Thank you love..x x

Then there’s Dave Bland…!! His enthusiasm is great to see. (If he kisses me on the lips once more…he’s dead..!!!)

We broke even, so there will hopefully be a Reunion in 2012, if Karen has her way!

So, to everyone who turned in on Saturday…..thank you all…to those who didn’t or couldn’t come, you missed a great night..!!

VERY SAD TO REPORT THE DEATH OF KEN MASON (Former Inspector) on Thursday 6th of October.

Funeral arrangements :- 1.20pm on  Monday 17th of October at Sholemore Cemetery.

Yes, it’s Patrick with hair...

…long, long time ago…!!!