ColinANSONA much-loved and well-respected former Accrington headmaster has died aged 89. Colin Anson, of Queens Road, Accrington, was head teacher at Benjamin Hargreaves CE Primary School in the town from 1984 to 1992. He leaves his wife of 66 years Eunice, son John, daughter Gillian, daughter-in-law Sharon and son-in-law Paul and grandsons Chris and Dan. Colin was born in Accrington and attended Peel Park Primary School and then Accrington Grammar School. He spent his National Service with the RAF in Egypt before joining his father in running the Post Office on Avenue Parade. He trained as a teacher at Chorley College of Education and began his teaching career at Spring Hill Junior School, Accrington, in 1968. He later became deputy head teacher at Benjamin Hargreaves before taking up a similar position at Western County Primary School, Great Harwood. While head at Benjamin Hargreaves he oversaw the school’s centenary celebrations. He also served as president of the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley branch of the National Association of Head Teachers. Colin was a lifelong member of Cannon Street Baptist Church, Accrington, serving as both a deacon and on the church committee, and then was a regular member at the Trinity Church, Accrington, following the merger of Cannon Street, Christ Church and Woodnook. A talented woodworker, Colin made a number of toys for the school including Santa’s postbox, which is still in use. Following his retirement in 1992, he and his wife enjoyed travelling visiting Australia and America on a number of occasions. They also had regular trips to Norfolk and Scotland. He also enjoyed cross stitch and spending time with his grandsons as they grew up. He died in Pendle Brook Care Home, Oswaldtwistle, where he had been living since January. Following a private family cremation, a thanksgiving service will be held at the Trinity Church, Accrington, at 11.45am on Friday, October 22, before going on to the Peel Park Hotel, Accrington. Family flowers only, but donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society c/o funeral director Hyndburn Funeral Services, Accrington.
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