An alumnus who describes his time in Ormskirk as the "best three years of his life" has made an emotional return to Edge Hill University. While planning a trip to Southport with his wife—a fellow former student—Barrie Pollard knew he had to revisit the campus that shaped his youth in the early 1960s.
The nostalgic visit centered on Stanley Hall, the place Barrie called home for his entire degree. Standing by the familiar fireplace in the hall’s entrance, proudly sporting his original Edge Hill tie and scarf, Barrie took a trip down memory lane to a time of pigeonholes, strict curfews, and a very famous encounter with a then-unknown band called The Beatles.
Barrie recalls this area as the location of the pigeonholes, where he and his peers would check for letters from friends and family. During his visit, Barrie shared vivid accounts of his student days at Edge Hill and the various excursions he and his peers took beyond the campus grounds.
One story he shared was of a group of students borrowing the college minibus to attend a gig in New Brighton, something students were able to do if they provided their own petrol. At the gig, they saw Gerry and the Pacemakers, who were supported by a then lesser-known band, The Beatles.
To round off his visit, Barrie shared a detailed snapshot of student life at Edge Hill between 1962 and 1965. He shared his memories of daily life, Edge Hill traditions and the quirks that made campus life so memorable. While some aspects may feel familiar, others offer a fascinating glimpse into a very different era at Edge Hill.
Starting out at Edge Hill
Barrie remembers being welcomed by a ‘College Uncle’ before arriving, offering advice on what to bring and what not to buy. He sent his belongings ahead by rail to Ormskirk, where returning students collected and delivered trunks to halls. A formal welcome in the main hall led by Principal Dr Bain required every student to introduce themselves. Strict expectations on dress and behaviour, particularly in town, meant jackets and ties were required for male students.
Life in halls
Barrie lived in Stanley Hall for all three years, with no locks on bedroom doors. Tea and coffee were served daily by a member of staff who quickly learned everyone’s name and preferences. Curfews were in place—anyone returning after 10:30pm had to be escorted back in by the caretaker. Visiting hours were carefully regulated, with written parental permission required for mixed visitors.
Money, meals and student life
Barrie received a termly student grant of £148 to cover books, stationery and personal spending. All meals were provided during the week, with food available for weekends. Occasional formal lunches with staff required collar and tie. The social scene was packed, including societies, films, dances and student union meetings.
Teaching and campus experience
Six-week teaching placements were required each year, sometimes forcing students to stay away during the week. Annual exams came with strict academic expectations. Facilities like the swimming pool were accessible, with the rule that at least three people must be present ‘for safety’.
Social life in Ormskirk
Favourite local spots included Drapers café for coffee and cakes. Trips to local cinemas were common, including one where the screen shook as trains passed behind it. Evenings out at The Angel were popular—until students were famously banned. Regular visits to the best fish and chip shop on Burscough Street were a staple.
And finally…
Barrie appreciated the comfort of centrally heated halls, something he hadn’t experienced at home. He valued the independence, friendships, sport and vibrant student community. Barry said of his time at Edge Hill: “Three meals a day, plenty of sport, money in my pocket, and independence away from home… the best three years of my life.”
