THE end of an era is fast approaching for Castlebrook High School and to commemorate the historic event The Bury Times is seeking help from our readers.

The school, in Parr Lane, Unsworth, will close its doors for the last time this summer and open its new £12 million building in September.

Along with the new building, the school will get a new name - Unsworth Academy.

To coincide with the closure, The Bury Times is planning a special feature charting the history of the school.

We want former pupils and staff to get in contact and share their memories. Amusing anecdotes, memories of important events and photographs from your time spent there are all welcome.

The school opened in April 1972 with Mr Schwarz as its headteacher. It would be particularly fascinating if some of the first cohort got in touch.

Maybe you took part in one of the school’s many theatrical or musical productions. Perhaps you played a part in a school sports team’s glorious achievement. You may have met your future wife or husband at school. It might even be the case that three generations of your family attended the school.

And what about school trips you went on, such as Malham Cove, Ainsdale Sands, Scarborough and Bulgaria?

Memories of your favourite teacher, or one who really inspired you, are also welcome.

The history festivals were a favourite event for many pupils. Held every two years, these involved the whole school giving itself over to a particular period of history. The Ancient Greeks, the Elizabethan’s, the Victorians’ and the 1920s were just some of the themes of the highly popular events.

During the decades it existed the school underwent a number of name changes. It began life as Unsworth Comprehensive - or “The Comp” as it was affectionately known. In the early 1980s it became Unsworth High School before ending up as Castlebrook High School.

If you have any memories you would like to share please email: neil.brandwood@nqnw.co.uk