MANY of our readers will remember a time when the toilet was outside and there was no television.

Pat Higson has fond childhood memories that will resonate with others.

She lived, until the age of 10 — which was 1958 — in Croasdale Street which ran off Waterloo Street.

Her home faced the Ship pub which is now the Metro Salvage office building.

“The Co-op Milk Depot was at the end of our street and everything you wanted was within walking distance," she said.

She recalls St James’ School and Church, Dr Walsh’s surgery, Bobby Legs’ Park, Mrs Berry’s sweet shop and Jack Shef’s Temperance Bar.

Moss Street swimming baths was 10 minutes away.

“We had no television or phones and no inside bathrooms.

“It must have been hard for my parents with me and my two brothers to bring up.

“I do remember overall it was a happy time at home and at school.

“Our weekly treat was a trip to the Palladium Cinema in Higher Bridge Street which was just 10 minutes walk away.”

She tells us that her mother’s favourite movies were Alan Ladd films “which were romantic cowboy films”.

She adds: “We never went on holiday as a family but a day trip on a coach to Blackpool was a highlight in the school holidays.”

In 1958 the family was re-housed to Tonge Moor where they were found a council house with a front and back garden as well as an inside bathroom and all mod cons “including hot running water”.

“We thought that was a real luxury,” adds Pat.

Pat, now living in Lostock, can recall all this as if it were yesterday.

Perhaps you have similar memories of your own childhood.

If so get in touch with Gayle McBain on 01204 537269 or email gayle.mcbain@nqnw.co.uk to share your memories with other readers.