Former councillor honoured by school

A former Haydock Councillor Jim Caunce has been honoured by Haydock High School – with the unveiling of a plaque in his memory in the school’s new reception area.

Jim, who passed away in 2010 aged 92, was believed to be one of the longest serving politicians in the country. He was a familiar face in the town hall for almost 60 years and made a freeman of the borough in 1995.

Jim’s daughters, Ann Simister and Joan Dearden, and his nephew Stephen Caunce joined previous headteacher Andy Pollard and director of children and young people’s services Andy Dempsey – who were both involved with the project – at a ceremony to mark the occasion.

Former members of staff, governors and headteachers accompanied them from some of Haydock’s feeder primary schools.

Current headteacher Ian Murphy said: “We are particularly pleased to see the family of Jim Caunce – to share in what we hope is a fitting tribute to Jim and the enormous commitment he made to both Haydock High and the town of St Helens.

“The governing body have for many years discussed an appropriate memorial to Jim and I’m delighted that we have finally found a means to honour his memory at Haydock.”