A SPECIAL thank you was given to the secretary of the Association of Old Rivingtonians, who has served for 50 years.

Olive Fisher has held the post since 1963, not long after she left the former Rivington and Blackrod Grammar School. She had been a pupil there from 1954 to 1959.

The association is made up of former pupils, staff and governors of the school, which is now Rivington and Blackrod High School. It holds social and fundraising events. Its President’s Charity has raised £50,000 since its inception. Present president Geoffrey Darbyshire has so far raised £6,000 for The Christie’s mobile chemotherapy Unit.

The Old Rivs holds its 110th annual meeting at Horwich Golf Club on Monday, when all former pupils and staff of the school are welcome.

For details of the group’s activities contact Mrs Fisher on 01204 697106.