A mother-of-two from Australia, who left Redbridge more than four decades ago, is hoping to revisit her “wonderful” school years by meeting former classmates when she returns to Ilford this year for the first time since 1972.

Ilford Recorder: Lynn in 1972Lynn in 1972 (Image: Archant)

Lynn Brazier, formerly Tindale, who lives in Adelaide, went to Beal Grammar School for Girls in the late 1960s before moving to the other side of the world with her mother and brother.

The 56-year-old, who used to live in Mafeking Avenue and worked at Bodgers department store, is appealing to former classmates from the Seven Kings school to get in touch for a reunion when she revisits the place where she grew up in October. It coincides with a trip to England for her son’s graduation.

She said: “I still picture Ilford as it was 40 years ago, so something tells me I’m in for a shock.”

Mrs Brazier left England three days before Christmas in 1972 when her mother decided to join her eldest brother in the land of “snakes and sand”.

She said: “We were a class of characters. Our teacher was Ms Joins, who we were given because we were the worst class in the school.

“I love to tell my sons about it. They look at their respectable mum and can’t believe it’s true.”

Mrs Brazier, who used to make £1.50 a day working at Bodgers, said: “I remember some of my friends so well that I can still see them in my mind.

“I’ve often wondered over the years whether Janice Walpole ever got to own a horse. Whether Carol, with whom I performed Build Me Up Buttercup in the talent contest, kept up with her singing. And if Jenny Chin, who was always top of the class, became a doctor.”

The mother-of-two believes her education stood her “in good stead” for later life.

She added: “Beal Grammar gave me a wonderful education and I’m proud to be a ex-student.”

• Did you attend Beal Grammar School for Girls between 1967 and 1972? Get in touch on 020 8477 3800 or email newsdesk@ilfordrecorder.co.uk.