SCHOOLDAY memories came flooding back for Bernard Nolan when he returned to his old primary school after 80 years.

The 91-year-old dropped by Devonshire Road Primary School in Heaton as part of a visit to his hometown.

During his visit, Mr Nolan, who now lives in Southport, visited the school, spoke to the children and even helped youngsters with their World War Two project, sharing his memories of being in the war at the age of just 19-years-old, being posted in Greece, Italy and North Africa.

Mr Nolan said: "I lived at 55 Crosby Road, 200 yards from the school.

"The school is half as big again with a larger playground on the girl’s side.

"A quadrangle has been filled in to provide extra teaching space."

He added: "There were no carpets in my day.

"I felt at home. It was very exhilarating being able to talk to such happy well behaved pupils.

"They were immaculately dressed in their smart uniform.

"It didn’t seem 80 years since I left and I was so impressed by the staff who seemed dedicated and enthusiastic in their work

The father-of-two later worked as the bursar of Bolton School, at a time when the assisted places scheme was being withdrawn, and funding to support bright children had to be raised by the school.

He was in town to celebrate Bolton School's 100th anniversary at its current site in Chorley New Road.

Mr Nolan added: “I left Bolton for career reasons in 1951 and it was a fairy story for me to return to the perfect job as bursar of Bolton School.”