On Thursday, June 16, I was invited to Coombe Road School to talk about what it was like to attend the school and to live in the area during the Second World War, both of which I did.

The children were smart in their uniforms, keen and attentive.

Contrary some of the bad press schools get, I found Coombe Road School to be gold-star standard. It was a credit to the teaching staff and the parents of the children.

The quality of the after-talk questions also showed how well-informed the children were.

It made me proud to think that, 60 years ago, I went to that school and the measure of quality which still prevails is something I will boast about.

It was an honour to speak there and a privilege I will never forget.

-Tony Jarvis, Goring by Sea