your comments
Dewina Furmston nee Evans, Wigan
I started at Deeside when I was 15 in 1965 cutting yarn from the cones and spent some time in First Aid with cut fingers. I have fond memories of the blonde lady from Flint in picture 10. I think her name was Dora and the second lady was Jean, she looked after me. When I was 16 I started two shifts 6-2 & 2-10 and used to get the works bus from Mold.
Fri Jun 19 08:27:10 2009
Martin Hinton, France
Thanks for your comments, Paul. Dad worked at Castle for 30 years plus, as we have his gold watch. Sadly he passed away in 2001. He was a chemical plumber aka lead burner. When I went for apprenticeship at Greenfield in 1983, Roy Price took the interview and proceeded to ask me technical questions, such as - how was dad keeping? And what was he up to?! I think dad was well known at all four plants, he was also EEPTU branch sec for 35 years. He was a real company man - he worked at Greenfield when I was there for two months, telling me off for swearing saying 'you're with your dad now, not your workmates'!
Fri Jun 19 08:19:23 2009
Paul Cunningham, Flint
To Martin Hinton, France. I knew your dad Bert. He used to come to our house on a Sunday after work for his tea. The reason for this was to attend evening mass, as Flint was the only Catholic Church to have one in the evening. I remember your family well. In fact, I worked with your sister Pat, in Marks & Spencers Chester, as did my wife.
Thu Jun 11 08:15:20 2009
Angie Thomas from Mold
Courtaulds, Greenfield. Does anyone remember George Trevor Thomas who worked in the cloth stores for 35 years with Ernie Harrison both from Mold? George, my dad, sadly passed away a few years back, but between Courtaulds xmas parties for us kids and my dad coming home from work with a big smile on his face cos he loved working there, I hold very special memories of my childhood. My dad retired in 1975-76 I think. Pauline Thomas, my sister, and her best friend, Barbara Wilson from Flint worked at Courtaulds Flint from 15 yrs old until they got into their twenties. Happy days they were indeed!
Wed Apr 22 07:51:20 2009
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
Hi Wendy (nee Kettle), I hope you are OK. I never got a reply back from you at xmas. Maybe you will see this and get back in touch.
Tue Apr 14 14:59:01 2009
Emma Middleton - Wigan
Does anybody remember my grandad - Stan Roberts (William Stanley Roberts)? Big jolly guy who brought up kids on his own - he died around 1987 aged 63 then? Grandad died of emphysema (through working at the steel works). There is also a photo I see of an uncle of mine through marriage - Alan his name and he is on the football picture. I haven't seen him for years and he wouldn't know who I am now. He used to be married to my Aunty Dot! Oh I always remember too - there was something on the news about BS and then popped up a picture. The picture showed some steel workers smiling - one of them was my grandad - anybody remember this?
Tue Apr 14 11:19:10 2009
Bernie Wild, Holywell
I have one of the original photos of the football 11 a side inter-department (No.2 engineers) 1974 left to right top: Jimmy (Horlicks) Evans ref. clown, Andy Eriksen, Ron Roberts, Dave, Korky, Ray Jones, Bryn Jones, Pat (steep floor) linesman. Front row: Mike Thomas, Bone, Bernie Wild, Brian Dolman, Allan Corbet. All worked in the engineering dept.
Tue Apr 7 10:03:55 2009
John Wynne from Cheshire
To T.C. Flint. Thanks for the feedback on the Williams family from Henry Taylor Street. I have since found out that they were living at No. 23 in 1928, and had previously lived in nearby Thomas Street. John Thomas Williams was a joiner/pattern-maker (and had previously worked at a steelworks). The children were Elwyn, Megan, Gladwen and Glyn Parry (and not Gladwin and Olwen, as I previously thought). I would love to find out more about the family and what happened to them.
Fri Apr 3 15:00:26 2009
T.C. Flint
To John Wynne from Cheshire. My father in law remembers the Williams family very well. They lived in Henry Taylor Street. My father in law says that his father was a joiner at Courtaulds, and the plumber and tin smith. All lived in Henry Taylor's.
Wed Apr 1 08:37:28 2009
Nick, Hong Kong
Hello to John, one of the family Megan was the mother of Dave Lumby who is on this page and now resides in Australia. She married Ken Lumby who was in the desert rats in WWII. After the war he worked in a shop in Flint owned by Meredith Edwards the famous Welsh actor, a green grocer, Ken Lumby, he passed away in the '60s.
Fri Mar 20 12:39:29 2009
John Wynne from Cheshire
I'm trying to trace information about my great uncle, John Thomas WILLIAMS, and his family. He was born around 1893, and was a pattern-maker at Courtaulds in Flintshire, but I don't know when. He and his family lived in a terraced house, on a street with "two christian names" (e.g., "John Henry Street", or something like that), according to a 97 year old relative who recalls visiting them as a child.John Thomas was married to Elizabeth (Lizzie) and their children were Megan, Glyn, Gladwin and Olwen. Does anyone remember the family, or have any clues where this street with "two christian names" might be?
Tue Mar 17 11:50:47 2009
Nick, Hong Kong
Hello, does anyone remember the colour sorting department at Aber Works Flint? It was a funny little department where it appeared everyone was stressed out. I remember Jean, Dave Lumby, Tom Salisbury whose pastime apart from ballroom dancing was making wedding and Christmas cakes. Dave Lumby was in time and motion - not sure what good it ever did as everyone worked flat out any way. Hectic days I would like to get in touch with Dave again.
Fri Mar 13 11:51:47 2009
Cedric Byrne, Sydney, Australia
I started my working life at Aber in 1956, aged 16 as an App Instrument Mech. Arthur Atherton was ny boss. My sister Margaret was secretary to the HR manager. I was tranferred to Castle when Aber closed down then back to Aber to work on the Bleached Pulp project which also met an untimely death. I then transferred to Courtaulds in Coventry. In 1965 I went to work in Central Africa on the copper mines and 12 years later moved to Johannesburg. In 1984 I emmigrated to Australia and never regretted it. My sister Barbara, now Carney still lives in Flint. Her late husband Frank worked at Deeside for many years. My father Tom worked in Spinning at Castle all his life - a life that I could never have contemplated. My mother Winnie also worked at Castle before raising 5 children. She was and will always remain a saint in my eyes.
Thu Feb 19 08:55:12 2009
Colin Dawson, Wolverhampton
Does anyone remember by grandfather, Edmund Hugh Hodson, who was an engineer at the works in 1925 the year of my mother's birth?
Fri Feb 6 07:57:14 2009
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
Hi Vicky, I can't recall any nurse being at Aber but then maybe after all these years my memory is playing tricks on me. But I know for certain that Owen Owen would take me down to the middle works, I suffered very badly with woman troubles, the nurse used to give me a thick brown liquid to take and I used to get a lie down for a wee while, then the nurse would get back in touch with Owen Owen and he would come back down for me. I was a nightmare running the machines when being in so much pain, but the girls were all very good and came to the rescue, as you said good comradeship in those days which I think has all gone now. I remember the trips to Blackpool as well, oh to bring the good old days back.
Mon Jan 19 14:10:12 2009
Vicky Perfect
Hi Hazel. I don't remember when you were taken to the surgery in Deeside if you were ill, because the one across from the factory was open when I worked at Aber Works, just missed out on that. You could have been down there for a few hours away from the machines no doubt.
Mon Jan 19 09:32:21 2009
Freda, Bagillt
I worked at Deeside mill in the FT on the coning 1960. At 15 we worked on days, when we turned 16 we had to work two shifts, 6-2 and 2-10. I remember going on a trip to Blackpool. I worked with my friend Iris Leighton, and Deborah Stacey Ann Gittens and I think her sister Jennifer. We were also on the safety committee, because we used to get out of working to watch films about safety.
Wed Jan 14 09:40:29 2009
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
Evelyn Taylor do you remember a man named Owen Owen who was at Aber Works? I am not sure what his work entailed but he was always smartly dressed, he was a small slim man with dark hair and wore glasses. I just remember him walking about the machines. Pat Fox also had another sister Sandra(maiden names Evans). I have a photo of Sandra and I taken in the Schooner in Rhyl in the sixties. I lived in Connah's at that time.
Tue Jan 13 10:03:32 2009
Freda Jones from Bagillt
I also worked in the wrapping dept with Phillys & Vi. Great times. My father also worked in the spinning for 30 years. His name was Walter Jones, known as 'little Walt'.
Mon Jan 12 08:35:47 2009
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
Does anyone remember a man named Owen Owen who worked at Aber Works? He was a little man with dark hair and wore glasses. I am not sure exactly what his job involved but he was always dressed smartly and walked round about the coning machines all the time. He had a bit of a soft spot for me, but I think he could have been my father to be honest. If any of the girls weren't too well he used to take them down to Deeside Works in his car to see the nurse because there were no such facilities at Aber Works. Maybe Vicky Perfect could fill me in?
Mon Jan 5 09:57:48 2009
Neil Peters, Manchester
My dad Godfrey (Jeff) Peters worked at Courtaulds, does anyone remember him?
Tue Dec 30 11:16:37 2008
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
Hi Wendy, lovely to hear back from you. I live in Fife, a wee village between Dunfermline and Cowdenbeath called Crossgates. Edinburgh is just half an hour away from me. We take my grand daughter to the ice rink between xmas and new year. They have xmas markets and a fun fair too. Well Wendy have a great xmas with your grand children and do keep in touch.
Mon Dec 29 09:26:54 2008
Wendy Williams (Kettle)
Hi Hazel, I am so glad you remember me. Your mum was a gem. She told me she was in school with my dad. We used to have a good old laugh when she came shopping to Iceland. What part of Scotland do you live in? Our grandchildren live just outside Edinburgh. In fact, we are going to get them both on the 27th. They spend every school holiday with us. Have a wonderful Xmas and Hogmanay and do keep in touch.
Tue Dec 23 07:27:28 2008
Allan Smith, Welwyn Garden City, Herts
My dad worked at Greenfield for many years. (George Smith) my memories of all the Courtaulds plants were from my time with British Road Services. I joined BRS @ Bretton from school (Deeside Secondary Modern) in 1957 and can remember planning the collection and delivery of rayon from Greenfield to all the mills in Lancashire. We also moved cased goods from Castle and Aber to be exported via Liverpool, Birkenhead and the London Docks. Later BRS moved to Chester Road, Queensferry, and we began covering all the woodpulp that came into Mostyn Docks for delivery to Greenfield and Spondon. How times change, no mills in Lancashire and it seems no docks anywhere. Would be happy to talk to anyone who remembers these times.
Regards
Allan Smith (Fron Road Connahs Quay).
Mon Dec 15 08:16:51 2008
Dave Lumby, Australia
Great to read the comments from my old (then young) boss Joe T. Work study dept, and still sleepless nights remembering Alf Bradbury (never forgave me for unionising the staff!). Couldn't get it out of my system, Joe, ended up as Associate to the President of the Industrial Court and Commission of South Australia in the 1990s. Happy memories of Aber works and Brian Roberts, Dave Shelbourne, Pete Hughes, Ron Young etc and Alan Roberts, who keeps on turning up on my doorstep in Australia, maybe because Pete Hughes and I booked him in as an act at the old Conservative Club in Flint and he was thrown off the stage, bottles thrown and all. Would love to hear from Mike Dennan, could anyone give me any info, perhaps Mike Winter. Always happy memories of Courtaulds. A great training ground when I think of Sam Cryer, Jim Hughes, John Foulkes and Tom Salisbury. I certainly remember the fun times we had at Aber Joe. Please reply.
Mon Dec 15 08:14:55 2008
Vicky Perfect
Hello Jean Stephenson, Thanks for adding a piece about Louie Dixon. I liked your mother even though she sent me to work in Deeside Mill from Aber Works to help out when they were short of coners down there. When I returned to Aber works I enjoyed it even more. Your mom worked very hard not only in Courtaulds but helped on the small holding that was over on the next bridge to where I lived. I can remeber many a time going there for potatoes for my mother. Happy days
Fri Dec 12 11:47:59 2008
Jean Stephenson (Kellard)
Recently I met a very old friend who told me about this site. When I clicked on and read all the comments it took me back. One was from Vicky Perfect asking about my mum Louie Dixon (she died 1993). Well Louie worked in Courtaulds most of her working life except during the war when she was in the ATS and because of that she eventually carried the flag for the Royal British Legion Women's Section which she was very proud of. She also worked in the Courtolon Deeside as a supervisor on the coning along side Sam Cryer, Elsie Davies, Bet Allen and many more I could name. When I was a child she worked in the Aber where she was on the works council which organised special events for the workers, one of which was the annual fete to crown the rayon queen. Many well known stars came to this event. All the workers enjoyed that day including the townspeople too. I also remember Courtaulds always gave us children a smashing xmas party where Santa came down the chimney and climbed onto his sleigh laden with prezzies for us children. You can see by the photos I have submitted how we enjoyed this occasion, the surprise and excitement on the faces of the children. I feel the children of today miss out on all of the surprise and excitement we used to have. Minnie Flynn used to organise the pantomime and she always sat in the front of the bus and wore a fur stole with claws hanging on each end. Us children wanted to touch the claws which always caused a lot of laughter on the bus. I started work in the Courtolon when I was 18 and worked on Mr Stenhouse's desk along side Bill Roberts, Sylvia Gresham and Wendy Williams (Kettle). I eventually moved up to Aber with Brian Roberts. We were in the despatch office with Jimmy Polkynhorne, Mike Preston, Mike Winter, Peter Hughes, Bill Prthych and Tecwyn LLoyd. I do see Mike Winter and Peter Hughes about the town but don't know the whereabouts of the others. I left 1969.
Thu Dec 11 09:04:36 2008
Freda Bather, Bagillt
Does anyone remember Alf Thompson who worked in Courtaulds from leaving school until he retired, he worked in Deeside mill and Aber, mostly on nights?
Mon Dec 8 08:45:39 2008
Hazel Kerr, Scotland
I have just remembered an incident that happened when working 2 til 10. I hope Sandra takes this as quite funny, that is if she or any one who knows her sees this. We had gone down to makeshift canteen for our break and Sandra was standing filling the teapot from the urn, and the next thing the lens from her glasses literally broke into tiny wee fragments and into the teapot, I was doubled up laughing as were the other girls. I am afraid Sandra didn't find it so funny though which I can understand. Do you remember me Sandra? I came to your house in Bagillt a few times.
Wed Dec 3 08:18:51 2008
Hazel Kerr nee Beaton, Scotland
Hi Wendy you do know me? We used to go around together, I used to come to your house when you lived up Mold Road, I worked at the Aber works from 1963. I remember my mum always speaking about you, you worked for Iceland at that time. My mum thought a lot of you. I look a lot like my mum but a bit taller. I was over the moon when I saw your message. I have been in Scotland for over 40 years, my goodness don't the years fly by. I hope you keep good health and stay in touch with me, best wishes Wendy.
Tue Nov 25 11:43:14 2008
Wendy Williams (Kettle), Connah's Quay.
I went to work in the Deeside Mill straight from school in 1963. I worked in the Courtolon Dept with Sylvia Gresham and Jean Kellard. We prepared the time sheets. They were happy memories - the '60s was a great era. The shift bosses, if I remember rightly, were the bellowing Bill Roberts who had The Blossoms pub in Bagillt, the dapper Mr Stenhouse, Ernie Pitman the gentleman and the handsome Sean Flynn. I can also recall a few trips to the surgery to see Sister Darkin and little Janet the receptionist. Can you remember Carol Trussel who worked in the Lab., she always looked so perfect in her white coat. I think she won Rayon Queen one year. I do remember the girls in their rollers and head scarves and the noise of the machinery. Louise Dixon was Jean Kellard's mum. I only worked there for 4 years but they were happy memories, and Hazel from Scotland I knew your mum and Herbie so I must know you.
Wed Nov 19 08:30:59 2008
Stephen Lloyd Smith, Hersham
I have a small hand tool which came fom my Grandfather's set of tools. Jack Abbott (Sunnyside, Brynford) spent most of his working life at Courtaulds and my Grandmother also worked there until forced to leave the day she got married, which would have been shortly after WW1. She was Alice, nee Lloyd. I have a feeling that it is a work-tool that one of them may have used used, perhaps for separating threads as they are being formed (preventing tangles, maybe?) The tool is lightly made, about the size of a small pliers, with wooden-sleeved 'arms' which pivot. However, unlike a pliers, it opens rather than closes when you squeeze on the spring-loaded arms. It is lightly sprung. One arm comes to a point which is not sharp. The other arm pivots on the first arm, merging with it, terminating just behind the end point of the first arm. There is a recess in the first arm which the other one tucks into neatly in the closed position. As I was very fond of Grandfather and Grandmother Abbott, I cherish this tool though it won't have any value as an antique! Any thoughts?
Mon Nov 10 08:58:30 2008
Tracey Ferguson, Holywell
Does anyone out there remember Lenny Ferguson off Castle Street in Flint (Fergie)? His mother was Sarah Commings and father Laurance Ferguson. We would be very interested as Lenny is now 83 and hasn't even got a photo of his mum or dad. It would really make him happy.
Thu Oct 30 08:22:29 2008
Olive North, nee Zachery, Treuddyn
I worked in the winding room in Deeside from 1932 - 1934. I married Ron North who worked in the Aber Works around 1937 then Castle Works. He was a fitter then was made foreman. He passed away in 1969. If anyone remember us or has any stories I would love to hear from you.
Mon Oct 20 08:37:37 2008
Margaret Sheen, Aberystwyth but a Flintonian
I worked in the three Courtaulds factories, and at one time my father, Ernie, and his seven children all worked in the factory at the same time. One of my jobs was doing the same as Ken Frimstone's daughter, and Ken worked with me. I remember many of the names mentioned. I also remember that I did have many laughs with the great crowd of people I worked with, but as for Courtaulds, they were a terrible firm to work for. The conditions were disgraceful in some depts. My father's pension was a miserable sixpence a year for every 38 years' of service. Flint has been far better off since they've gone. Better air and a cleaner river.
Fri Oct 10 09:12:45 2008
Nick, Webteam
Just to let you know you can hear the BBC Radio Wales programme, Rayon Queens, on Thursday October 9, 9.30pm, and again on the iplayer for a week after transmission. More...
Fri Oct 3 08:04:14 2008
Keith Williams off Flint (Hereford)
I started at Castle Works around 1973, in the pulp shed. Joe Bellis was the department manager and Hayden Williams was the chargehand. I seem to remember that Hayden was 61 when I started, he was still riding his bike around town 30 years later. My work mates were Nigel Bellis and Les Beacher(Les became a postman and made the headlines in the tabloids). I also remember Harry Gloyne, Eddie Logan, Big Stan from Mold, and Kevin ----- who later nicked my job working on the gardens for the council. (Thanks Kev I've never looked back). My uncle Ken Williams (from Boot End) worked in the pulp store and a host of my cousins worked in the wrapping dept.
Tue Sep 23 07:59:22 2008
Sue C, Flint
Both my grandads worked for Courtaulds. Does anyone remember Rowley Roberts? Not sure what he did, but I think he was in Castle Works. His daughter, my mum, Ruth, worked in Deeside Mill. My dad, Norman Parry, worked in Castle Works and his dad, my grandad, George Parry, worked at Aber Works. My nana was always known as 'Mrs Rowley'. It would be nice to know if anyone remembers working with them.
Fri Sep 19 09:10:03 2008
Hazel Kerr nee Baeten, known as Beaton
Hi Tracy, I started in Courtaulds in the Deeside works and moved up to Aber in 1963. I have many happy memories of my time spent working there. Lots of stories to tell about my colleagues that worked beside me. I now live in Scotland but would love to have a reunion with the girls that worked there. I would be interested to know if anyone would like to get a reunion for maybe next year.
Mon Sep 15 08:27:26 2008
Tracy Cardwell, BBC Wales, Wrexham
I'm making a programme for BBC Radio Wales about Courtaulds on Deeside, called Rayon Queens. I'm keen to hear from any former female employees who'd like to contribute. Please make contact before the end of September 08.
Wed Sep 10 15:46:33 2008
Mo Vaughan, Shrewsbury
My father, Peter Vaughan, worked in the boiler house as a stoker at Greenfield. I once paid a visit and dad pointed out that a window at the top of the boiler house had been broken and left like that for some time. At night time the sulphur works across the railway line used to glow and the fumes used to blow in through the window. Dad suffered a heart attack while working there and, after pushing for some kind of recompense, afterwards was allowed to take early retirement and a meagre pension. Dad is now no longer with us, passed away 8 yrs ago. My memories of Courtaulds was a worn out father who worked hard and got little reward and of a union reluctant to help.
Thu Sep 4 08:01:59 2008
Marisa Shaw-Owen from Flint
Jessie Shaw is my grandmother and I'm proud to say that she is still very much alive and kicking :) If anyone has a message for her, I will be more than happy to pass it on for you.
Wed Sep 3 08:40:14 2008
Joanne from Kinmel Bay
Hi I am trying to trace my birth family, but not getting any luck. I know my birth family were from the Flintshire area and my grandmother worked for Courtalds and my grandfather worked for BSC. I do not know what that even is. Their surname was Ellis. I do not know their first names or ages they had a daughter, my birth mother, who lived at home with them when I was born, their granddaughter. My siter was 9/10 when I was born in 78. Does anyone remember a woman with the surname Ellis? Any help would be great. If I had a first name it would help with my search and an address would be even better. Thank you.
Mon Sep 1 09:09:46 2008
Hazel Kerr nee Beaton
I remember one Saturday morning sleeping in, and having missed the bus, had to stand in the rain to get the next bus. Well, as has been mentioned, we girls wore our rollers. On my head I wore a red scarf and went to work. Finished my shift, went home, had a bath as I used to go to the Ritz in Rhyl - a great dance hall. When I took my rollers out my hair had red streaks through it. There was no way I was staying in on a Saturday night so off I went, and to be honest I wasn't that bothered after a few drinks. Women are paying a fortune to get that done now so you could say I was ahead of my time. Do you like the quip? I have a great time on this site, because living up in Scotland, it has brought back a lot of happy memories for me. Wishing you all well.
Tue Aug 26 07:38:45 2008
Stephanie Humphreys, Bagillt
My mother, Josie Rodber, worked at Courtaulds. Sadly, mum passed away 19 yars ago. Does anyone remember her?
Fri Aug 22 07:52:50 2008
Hazel Kerr
Having taken a good look at your photo Vicky, I don't seem to remember your face. It is a long time ago though. On one of the photos there is a lady who looks like a lady named Molly Hughes. She came from my street in Connah's Quay. She was a fantastic lady always full of fun. Do you recall a lady by the name of Mona Jones? She was a machinist in the Mayfair. She is still going strong. Do you remember Vera Morran? She worked with me at Aber, also Sandra Evans and her sister, Pat. Pat was on the examining. They came from Bagillt. As you say Vicky, hard work but happy times.
Tue Aug 12 14:05:06 2008
Kath Brown (nee Massey), Tamworth, Staffs.
I started my working life as Office Junior at Castle Works in 1964. I used to open all the post and then deliver it to the different departments. I remember the Coning and Beaming departments were very noisy and the Spinning Department, where my dad (Jim Massey) worked was very smelly. Later I spent time working in the Wages Section, Accounts Department and Teleprinter/Telex Room before my last job as secretary to the Technical Manager (Mr Holland) and the Works Chemist (Mr Ford). My husband, Ron, worked in the Lab, that's how we met and we're still together 39 years later! I enjoyed my time at Castle Works and have many fond memories of people who used to work there.
Thu Aug 7 16:57:50 2008
Gaynor Wilkinson nee Frimston - Flint
I left school in 1970 to start work in the office at Castle Works Flint. My first job was 'post girl'. My daily task was to deliver the mail around the factory in the morning and collect the mail in the afternoon, put the postage on using the franking machine and post the mail. It was the job most office girls starting off with (bottom rung of the ladder) usually girls did this job for 1 year before being promoted, I had it for 2 years. The worst thing about the job was having smelly clothes after walking through the spinning. The most amusing was going to the engineers' office which was up some wooden stairs trying to keep my dignity in place (this was the 70s and skirts were VERY short) the men would see me coming and congregate at the bottom of the stairs, someone would have a fairy liquid bottle with water in it and spray it through holes drilled in the back of the stairs. The highlight of the job was every month or so, the franking machine would have to be topped up at the post office. I would be taken in the works Jaguar by chauffeur (I can't remember his name) I thought it was the bees knees. I was later promoted to the dispatch office, did holiday relief on the switchboard and the wages handing out paypackets through the wages window. There was a certain amount of rivalry between the girls on the factory floor and the girls in the office and some of them would make comments or gestures as I walked through the cake packing. I had a lot of friends who worked in the factory though. My dad also worked in Castle and before that in Greenfield. He was Ken Frimston, Wages. I remember as a child going to the Christmas parties and getting a gift from Santa. Courtaulds was a real family orientated firm. I think a lot of famillies were sorry to see it go. I don't think Flint has been the same since. I look back to those days with great fondness.
Wed Aug 6 15:24:25 2008
Hazel from Scotland
Hi Vicky. I worked in Courtaulds aber works, from 1963 up. I have great memories of my time spent there. I remember Louis Dixon, Johnny Foulkes and Mr Cryer. I can't put a face to your name, but your maiden rings a bell. My own name was Beaton and came from Connahs Quay. I was so pleased to see this on the website. My mother worked at Rockliffe Hall and often took me with her as a child, at that time it was Bridgemans who owned it then that was about late forties early fifties, but sadly no photos or any history about the place. It's so sad that all our heritage is being taken away. You might remember me which would be nice. Best wishes now, Hazel Kerr.
Mon Aug 4 10:21:42 2008
Mike Martin, Lancashire
My father, Bert Martin, worked on the steep floor No 2 unit Greenfield with the likes of Glyn Thomas Tom Staley and Big Jeff. Anyone else remember these sadly passed on people?
Fri Aug 1 10:01:44 2008
Dave Trevor, Solihull
Update on my earlier request. I am looking for information on the following. John Edward Jones born 1882 who was a Foreman Painter at Courtaulds and died in 1940. His son Evan William Jones born 1914 who was also a foreman painter at Courtaulds and who died in 2004.
Mon Jul 21 12:41:28 2008
Peter Metcalfe, Flint
Dave Trevor from Solihull.
What was your gt grandmother's name who died in 1911? I may be able to help.
Thu Jul 10 08:37:57 2008
Mike Gibson, Prestatyn
I am surprised there are no comments about the Greenfield works No1 and No2 sites. There must be someone out there who recalls the caves, spinning room, wash and dryers!I worked in No1 factory in the dryers from about 1973 until it shut and we all went over to No2 site. I left in 1981.I was a shop steward on group4. 'Brother Lloyd' is still going strong and enjoying the odd pint!
Wed Jul 9 14:26:36 2008
Dave Trevor from Solihull
Bit of a longshot here but does anyone have any information regarding a John Edward Jones (possibly also known as Jack) who I believe worked for Courtaulds as a fabric designer sometime between 1920-50. He is my Great Grandfather and contact was lost after my Great Grandmother died after an accident in 1911 in Liverpool. I am hopeful that one day I can trace and meet up with any cousins.
Wed Jul 9 14:20:29 2008
Peter Metcalfe, Flint
Courtaulds Greenfield FC. Back row 2nd from left: My cousin Andy Erikson (no.2 fitters); 5th from left: goalkeeper Gwilym Hughes (no.2 fitters). Front row 1st from left: Mike Thomas (no.2 fitters), played for Rhyl Town; 3rd from left: Bernie Wilde (no.2 pipefitters). I believe he emigrated to Canada; 4th from left: Brian Dolman? I recognise all the other faces but sadly can't name them.
Wed Jul 9 11:05:47 2008
Dai
Was talking to old man in pub the other week, he recalled working at Courtaulds, good times he said.
Thu Jul 3 08:29:21 2008
Helen Holmes, Lancs
Hi Vicky hope you see this - I'm doing a PhD on hair, and I'm desperate for a photo of women workers wearing rollers and scarf, just as you describe in one of your comments, would you by any chance have any photos? Thank you in advance.
Wed Jul 2 08:42:53 2008
Leeanne from Flint
Hi All, I was wondering if anyone knew my nan and grandad at Courtaulds, Jack and Jean Johnson? Just that I'm doing a project about my family in Flint and would appreciate any info that anyone could give.
Mon Jun 23 09:35:48 2008
Linda Fletcher, Reading
Does anyone remember the presence of asbestos in the Flint Mills (Castle Works) at any time between 1936 and 1955? I have a client who worked there at that time as a silk worker but sadly died in April 2005 of mesothelioma which is an asbestos related cancer. Any assistance at all would be extremely helpful and much appreciated by his family.
Wed Jun 18 08:51:00 2008
Evelyn Taylor nee Smith nee Bebbington, Hawarden
Hi all Courtauld's employees. I too remember the good old days in aber works. I guess Joe T is Joe Thomas, who was in time study when I was there along with Alan and Dave Lumby. Yes, I was also very friendly with you Vicky. Remember the The Boars Head, Ewloe, run by your brother. I guess I used the name Lyn in those days. I too was also a shop steward, Louie Dixon and Mrs Bickerton, and also Isobel Barton, wife of the photographer Lynton Barton. They had a business in Flint. Jack Cryer used to shout 'Bel, Bel' he never seemed to give her full name. I can also remember going to work in a long haired page boy styled wig and the safety officer told me to tie it back. After several visits that shift I took the wig off and hung it on the end of the machine - the large green Sharra machines coning tricel. There was also a lady called Nancy from Carmel, Pat Fox and her sister Yvonne, so many people whose names escape me. Where are all the trucking boys? Reading this log has brought back many memories. Another name has just flashed through my mind, Johnny Foulkes. Thanks for my trip down memory lane. I have a photo somewhere of Courtaulds Castle Mill children's party, I will see if I can find it.
Mon Jun 2 09:43:13 2008
Bernard Scott, Nottingham
Well, well, Joe T. Remember The Kamikazes. I too worked at Deeside, from 1964 to 1968, and then briefly in 1969. I worked in Work Study, the Courtolon, and the Taslan. Can you recall Alf Bradbury's ability to hitch his trousers up using only his elbows? Was it 1967 when the Courtolon burnt down? The recovery from this disaster was hugely impressive. The growth of Deeside/Aber was on the back of the demand for tights because of the mini. Every pound of yarn could be sold, so 1200 shift went on strike on what seemed like every Tuesday night. Speaking of the mini, it seemed to be beyond coincidence that the tall girls worked on coning and the short girls worked on the double deck crimping machines. Curlers were rampant the morning shift before a night out and last night's make-up at 6.00am the morning after. Nobody's mentioned Bill the Blossoms, a local lad made good. JD Smith succeeded Mr Hartley, who I believe had been one of the youngest mill managers ever for Courtaulds. JD Smith rightly went on to greater things. Monthly, Friday stocktakes, often repeated on a Saturday morning. Six 6.00am starts led to falling asleep in the ashtray, on a Saturday night. Remember Tom Ellis and Howell Wynne, hardly a bad word for anybody and totally committed? Winters always seemed harsher then, I was full of admiration for the efforts made by the people from "up the hills" to get to work when the roads wouldn't permit the buses to run. Leaving dos were good and frequent. Trying to keep people reasonably sober etc. on the last afternoon shift before Christmas wasn't easy. Enough for now.
Thu May 29 08:38:32 2008
Steve Smith, Hersham
My grandfather, Jack Abbott (Sunnyside, Brynford), worked for Courtaulds in North Wales for most of his adult life, but died prematurely in the early '60s, while working at the Flint plant. He met my grandmother, Alice, who also worked there. She had to give up her job when they got married. Grandad was involved in establishing the trades union between the wars. Here's how: he and his life-long best friend had been given the choice of either going to borstal or joining the army. Their crime? Stoking-up a steam roller which had been parked overnight, and driving it away. He chose the army (Tank Regiment). Very reluctantly he took up boxing and became a featherweight champion of the Army of the Rhine. On return to work (at Courtaulds), he and his friend told as many as they could that they would stop and search everybody in case they were bringing bribes in for the foremen (in order to keep their jobs). The threat worked and workers quickly lost their fear of foremen and joined the union. They used to plan strikes months in advance, so that workers had time to plant their allotments and grow loads of vegetables. The strikes would last weeks, so they had to be prepared. He was a good gardener. Grandad taught me how to 'grasp the nettle' hard so as not to get stung. He also did a trick which made it seem like smoke was coming out of his ears. Though I was only 7 when he died, I still have fond and vivid memories of him. Smoking killed him, though the dreadful fumes did not help (Greenfield). His skin seemed slightly discoloured. Mam says that the fumes used to rot women workers' tights! Once I smelled Courtauld's as far south as Bala, en route to Bryndford for a holiday. Once smelled, never forgotten. Hydrogen Sulphide? I would be pleased an hounoured to hear from anyone who could remember him.
Tue May 27 09:33:45 2008
Elizabeth Price (nee Edwards) ex.Flint now Middles
Re: Howell Jones (Cheshire). Milford not in very good health now but he would love to hear how you are. Unfortunately, I don't seem to remember you.
Tue May 6 08:32:50 2008
Joe T
To Vicky. Unfortunately I do not have any photographs just lots of memories of my time at Deeside. Ron Young used to dabble a bit on photography and I know he and possibly Dave Lumby took quite a lot of photos both at Deeside and Aber. Maybe someone who visits this page knows where Ron and Dave are.
Tue May 6 08:12:57 2008
Vicky Perfect
To Joe T and everyone else who worked in Deeside and Aber Works - have you any photographs of the works and some of the people who worked there? It would be nice to add them to the ones that I have provided. I can remember my time in the work study department with affection, Randy was a good friend of mine and when it was my birthday would take me to the Con's Club on dinner hour to buy me a drink to celebrate my birthday and Mick Beaven would draw me a picture (he was quite a good artist). I still have some of his pencil drawings he did for me. And Ernie used to make me laugh quite a lot. I still see Molly from time to time. As I have said in my little introduction above there was without doubt a sense of friendship about working in Courtaulds that you seek to find in other jobs but you never seem to re-capture it. Come one you ex-courtaulds lot where are your tales of your time spent working at Castle, Aber, Deeside and Greenfield works? [Email your photos to the website at wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk]
Mon Apr 28 08:32:43 2008
Alan Sheen from Flint
I was the first baby born on the Gorst Mount Pleasant estate on the 19/11/1934, and was presented with an inscribed silver spoon from messers Gorst and sons, and employees. As the saying goes, born with a silver spoon in my mouth.
Thu Apr 24 08:38:07 2008
Sophia Roberts now Williams
I worked in Castle in the late fifties with my sister, Shirley. I remember the cold mornings walking down the Lletty in Mostyn to catch the early bus. I now live in Sydney, Australia, where it is much warmer. Reading all about Courtaulds bring back memories and Evelyn Hughes, just one of many friends I left behind. Love you all, Sophia.
Mon Apr 21 08:39:24 2008
Joe T
Further to my previous scribblings, there were a couple of people in the Work Study dept who I failed to mention. They were Ernie Dodd from Connah's Quay, Molly Dixon (Flint) and Randolph but always known as Randy, Evans? Ernie was an active member of the Salvation Army and sported a luxurient beard. Alf Bradbury WS Mgr once said that people with beards had something to hide but that didn't deter Ernie, he just grew it a bit longer. Alf also used to hold regular inspections of his staff. Only white shirts and a tie were allowed, no coloured shirts at all, and finger nails had to be trimmed back and clean. Ann Hayes was the original Admin person in the office. She lived right opposite the factory where her father had a large garden and his pigeon lofts. When she left, Molly joined the crew. She was great fun and we used to try to wind her up by getting her to ring Chester Zoo and asking for Mr C Lyon or Mr G Raff. She was also very keen on Keep Fit classes.
A couple of anecdotes from my very early days - New male recruits had to be initiated into their respective departments and this task was always taken on by existing female staff. The initiation involved ample amount s of grease being applied to delicate parts of the anatomy. I escaped this particular ceremony and can only put it down to the fact that I was seen wearing a suit on my first day. Most of the young lads fancied the Laboratory girls probably because they wore white coats, looked smart and didn't smell of grease. This should however not detract from the fact that there were some very pretty girls on the machines as well (curlers and all!) Whilst trawling through my back catalogue of memories it has brought home to me how quickly the passage of time goes by. I wonder if we had a 50th anniversary reunion would there be enough of us to fill Cornist Hall or a telephone box? Maybe Vicky has a better idea on this than I have. Before I go, some more names from the Taslan. Beverley (from Flint), Anne (from Rhosesmor?), Madeleine (from Flint), Harold (Night Shift), Tony Trevor (still racing his pigeons with Flint Castle HS)There were others but my memory lets me down. If any of these rambling notes trigger off more recollections amongst the readers it would be nice to have some of the gaps filled in.
Fri Apr 18 12:13:43 2008
Pete Johnson
Castle Works 1973 till works closure, started as apprentice fitter/turner. What a great foundation for life, meeting great people. I'm 52 now and it seem's like we were working in the Dark Ages when I think back. Remembering the compressor house and boiler house, the fitter's caged area in the spinning with the hidden stashes of bronze gears, packed ready for exchange at scrap yard Bagillt. Jack Rodrick and Harold Hughes, Bill Mason in the stores and the guy who operated the drill just outside the Eng. stores, I think his name was John ------ a good sourse for reading matter. I think he had a Scottish surname. Dennis Millward pump fixer, Arthur and Geramy Bains fitter and chargehand fitter. Queuing up to clock off, drinking gallons of tea in various hiddy holes dotted around the factory, walking through the conning at Christmas to collect Christmas kisses. Yes, we learnt a lot. Are there any photos about of Castle Works?
Wed Apr 16 13:34:51 2008
Joe T
I was sent to Deeside Mill by the Youth Employment Centre early in September 1959 to be interviewed by David Fullwood and Alf Bradbury for the job of Management Trainee. They said that as I had an "A" level in maths I was cut out for a job in work study. I said I'd think about it. Times have changed! I started on Sept 21st along with Tony Williams (Mold) and Mike Denman (Connah's Quay). On my first day I wore my best (and only) suit. After a tour of the factory we were told to forget the suits and come in old clothes on day 2. Next morning I was taken to Pirning and handed over to Jim Hughes (Mgr). He pointed to a chap in blue overalls up to his armpits in grease. You are working with him said Jim. "But I am a Mgt Trainee", I replied. "No mistake son" replied Jim. So that's how I joined the wonderful world of Tom James (Maintenance Fitter) and his mates. I did everything. Greased, Oiled, Cleaned, Gofered and kept lookout when they had an illicit smoke break! Along with Tony and Mike I had to go to Salford Tech one day a week. They worked out our expenses to the last penny but we still made 1/6d a week each out of it. Mike left and went to a pea canning factory in Lincoln. After a couple of years I was sent to the Taslan Dept as shift Foreman. Roy Hough was the Mgr. I had a Supervisor called Evelyn Williams from Halkyn. There were about 20 of us on the shift working 6 to 2 and 2 to 10. I remember Walter Appleyard coming down each shift and giving us a telling off (without fail). At some point I was told I was going on the night shift for 3 months. I told them I was allergic to nights. They said how would I like 6 months. I was in the Taslan for about 3 years. Most of it was boring and repetitive but there were some highlights along the way. In those days we worked right through Christmas and New Year. Alcohol was banned but we still had some notable parties and went home the worse for wear. I remember Peter Hughes (Lapsed Choirboy from Bagillt) giving us renditions of carols and Jim Reeves numbers in the canteen on a 2/10 shift and we couldn't get the Staff back to work. The canteen Mgr was Ian Frost. We still keep in touch regularly as we both follow Welsh Rugby. I was transferred to the Work Study Dept to work with Alf Bradbury (made it at last!) Mick Bevan and Ken Eldridge. I used to work in all departments including Aber. Up there they had a planning dept run by Pete Hughes, Jim Polkinghorne (ex Jockey), Dave Shelbourne (TT Motorcyclist) and Tecwyn Lloyd (The Desert Fox) and at some point Dave Lumby (Future Estate Agent). Nowadays they would all be fired but what a crew and what laughs we had. When Alf Bradbury retired I was promoted into his job (they were right all along!). Ron Young (Connah's Quay) joined us and we became big mates with regular Friday night boozy sessions with Pete Hughes, Ian Frost et al. I remember Vicky Aldridge (before she became Perfect) being a Shop Steward giving us grief over various bonus rates. This was around 1969/70 if my memory serves me well. She gave us so much grief we promoted her to the Work Study Dept but I do not think that worked either! I am running out of time now as I have to go to work. Yes still working even at my advanced age! I have lots more happy memories of my time at Deeside Mill which I would be glad to share with you in the near future.
Mon Apr 14 08:20:46 2008
Howel Jones, Cheshire.
Re: Elizabeth Edwards, Flint. Milford was a good friend of mine for the first ten years of our lives. I remember with great happiness both your parents and Menna, and I recall the day of your birth. If possible I should like my email address to be passed to you so that we could continue these recollections.
Tue Mar 25 10:43:33 2008
T. McGrath, Rhyl - now in Wigan
Worked in Greenfield No 1 from August 1968 until plant closure in '75. Promoted supervisor '69, worked on all groups as I advanced up the promotion ladder. Transferred to Deeside or Castle only for them to close as well. Remember Arthur Lloyd T&G shop steward Group 3 plus many more faces long forgotten. Finally left in '76 joining the prison service. A big change, I no longer had green coins every time I put my hand in my pocket. An experience I wouldn't have missed - met a lot of interesting people in my time there. Kept my origins quiet, especially when Scotland beat Wales at rugby; Bob Jones shift manager Gr5 made my life hell for a week after it. Joe Davis Gr7 & Harry Theaker Gr3 shift managers - I can't remember Gr1's shift manager. Did my NEBS course at Kelsterton College which came in very handy as the prison course was based on the identical subjects. A varied if sometimes frustrating 8 years - a big change after 9 years in the RAF then back into uniform for the next 22 years, medically retired at 59 - took up work again at 61 this time in the paper industry sitting on a forklift truck til retirement in Dec '93. Best wishes to all from Greenfield.
Tue Mar 18 08:14:51 2008
Gareth Richards, Flint
Does anyone remember my grandad, Eric Peet, at any of the three mills in Flint? I think he worked in the engineering dept. He also had a nephew called Norman who is featured in an old picture of Flint Castle works apprentices in late 1948. Grandad lived with my nan Dorothy in Earl Street, strangely where I also now live. I also have my grandad's long service clock that was presented to him in 1966 and my great grandfather's watch. He was Joseph Haslam. Anyone remember him?
Mon Mar 10 09:29:04 2008
Andrea Jones
My grandfather worked at the Flint mill, he was a foreman named Richard Staley. Anyone remember him?
Mon Mar 3 08:39:00 2008
Martin Hinton from France
Vicky, just looking at your photo 16 but can't see the faces very well. I did think my mum might be on it. Her name was Margaret Bradley and lived in Woodfield Ave before she married dad. He also worked in Aber and Castle, his name was Bert Hinton.
Mon Jan 28 08:59:07 2008
Ian Jones from Market Deeping, Lincolnshire
My father, Glen Jones, worked for many years as a painter in both the Aber and the Castle works and I can remember him going to London to receive his long service award. My memories of Courtaulds are of the wonderful Christmas parties which they gave for all children of employees, of the Courtaulds fete which attracted thousands to the Aber works field each year. Among the famous guests I can remember seeing Trevor Howard, Petula Clark, Peter Sellars and Freddie Mills. The sports field was a wonderful facility and I played my first adult cricket there for Courtaulds Flint. I got the impression as a youngster that they tried to make people feel they were part of the Courtaulds family and it was certainly an advantage to be a child of a Courtaulds employee.
Wed Jan 16 08:07:24 2008
Shaun T from Australia
My mum, Mildred Salisbury, I know worked there from school and I believe later as a nurse. My dad Percy (Norm) Townsend also worked there for a while. Would love to see pictures of the place they used to work, we're talking about pre 1960.
Fri Jan 11 09:44:11 2008
William Russell Jones, Cefn Mawr
To Elaine Gamage, it's a bit of a long shot, but are you a descendant of James Woods and Grace Simon?
Mon Dec 3 15:57:40 2007
Gareth, Flint
Just wondering if anybod has got some stories about my grandparents William Tudor Jones and Peggy Jones, both worked at Flint mill.
Sun Dec 2 16:29:09 2007
Sue Smith
Worked Castle Works 1968 - 1975 in the lab. Married Ken Parry, worked Deeside same time. Anyone remember?
Wed Nov 7 08:12:20 2007
Elaine Gamage nee Woods [Greenfield site]
My father Jim Woods was at the Greenfield plan for many years. He was very much a firm's man; ICI came and changed so much for him and he took early retirement. Should anyone remenber him I would love to hear from you; his daughter Elaine.
Mon Nov 5 08:53:35 2007
W.A.Bassford, Melbourne, Australia.
Vicky, can you tell me more about Mrs Davies, Aber works, 1960/1970. It could possibly be my mother. My mother remarried to Bill Davies also of Aber works. They both worked for Courtaulds Australia. Tomago, N.S.W. Aust. They returned to N. Wales on retirement.
Tue Oct 30 09:37:07 2007
Vicky Perfect
Do any of you remember Louie Dixon or Megan Bickerton and Mrs Davies who were chargehands in the 1960/70 at Aber Works? They were hard times. I remember being the first in the coning department in the mornings and putting the lights on. I opened the door and all the papers rustled it was quite eerie until the lights flickered on. Can you remember Mr Cryer and Jonny Foulkes? It was hard work but we did have some laughs.
Thu Oct 25 08:44:04 2007
Anne Henderson, ( Nee, Lee ) Scotland
I too worked at the Casle, and Deeside mills 56-58 and remember Caroline Williams from Mold. As you said Caroline, it was hard going getting up from your bed on those cold mornings to work 6-2 shift. I was a cone winder at the castle. Nimble fingers and speed were of the essence, as you were trying to earn a £2 bonus on top of your pay of £5 + a week. Incidentally if you managed to get the £2 one week, The Time + motion guy moved in to clock your speed - 'you did not get it again'. When we were asked to volunteer for Deeside mill which I did (cut backs at the Castle mill). Travelling on that cold Phillips bus from Mold at 5.30am 'half asleep', BRR. Mrs Phillips taking the fare ('wide awake too' how did she do it?) and her son Aubrey I think his name was! Driving. Passing memories.
Mon Oct 15 08:29:28 2007
George Turner, Shrewsbury
I would be grateful to hear from anyone who can recall a blind journalist who covered the villages around Holywell in the late 1950s. I recall the name Price. Was he Venables Price? I would also like to hear from anyone who may recall Bill O'Brian, a Chester Chronicle journalist at that time, and also Flo and Wilf Talkington of Penymaes with whom I stayed for over two years.
Tue Sep 25 08:33:17 2007
W.A.Bassford, Melbourne, Australia
Hello Vicky. Just re-read the comments once again and wish I could turn the clock back. I notice that most comments are post 1950. Here is just a little story going back to the war years. Courtaulds made up the pay of servicemen to a percentage of what would have been their pay packet. I was on leave from the navy and being broke as usual decided to pay a visit to the pay office at Castle Works and the payclerk brought a tray with a pile of pay envelopes and a ledger, each envelope contained three pence, and yes wait for it, I had to sign for each envelope. There was no way that they would accept one signature for the lot. I accepted my dues and asked them to donate future dues to the Red Cross. I think that was the last time I was in Courtaulds. I think I was about 18 or 19 years old hence threepence a week.
Tue Aug 28 11:57:25 2007
Gaynor Lloyd from Flint
Now Gaynor Hall from Matlock, Derbyshire. Worked all over Deeside Mill 1966-1976 started in winding on days, went on two shifts in twisting, all had shares to run hard work but had a good laugh.
Tue Aug 28 10:55:33 2007
JFM Hartley
This one is to Vicky Perfect (what a lovely name!). Yes, my Dad, Jack Kenneth, kept pigs behind Deeside Mill during the war. The law allowed anyone to keep pigs, provided half the pigs at slaughter went to the food ministry. I remember we always kept two pigs, with swill provided by the canteen. As to a garden, no, not that I recall, but the Company House we lived in, Wemyss Villa, situated behind the works, had a splendid orchard.
Wed Aug 22 14:46:30 2007
Jennifer Davies from Flint
To Brian Mann - I remember my father mentioning your name. His name was Tom Bithell and he was shift manager in the spinning room. Sadly he passed away in 1988 but I do know that Jessie Shaw is still alive.
Wed Aug 22 11:51:40 2007
Brian Mann
Worked in Castle Works, Flint, from 1962 till it closed in 1977. Started in "the spinning" hell on earth as it was known, later became shift manager group 1. Remember Joe Platt, Harry Gloyne, Joe Bellis, Alan Smith, Jessie Shaw and many many others, sadly most passed away. Many a happy time spent there.
Mon Aug 20 11:32:06 2007
J Hartley
Does anyone remember my father J. K. Hartley, who was Manager of Deeside works from about 1933 to 1960? His assistant manager was Walter Appleyard who between them had one of the worst jobs in the world - trying to manage about 350 sassy girls during the years 1939/1946 (!!!) I remember the works nurse, Sister Darkin, who dispensed pills and homely advice to all and sundry for many years. Yes, happy days. Hope you agree.
Thu Aug 16 10:27:56 2007
Tudor Parry, Ontario, Canada
I was a 17 year-old on a two week work placement from Kelsterton college in about 1980 or 81. I was placed in the office with some really nice guys who put me to work and showed me the ropes. One job was to count the "cash" and put it into pay packets. Then we transported, what must have been today's equivalent of millions to a concrete bunker where workers showed up to get paid. I had never seen so much money in my life (still haven't). I remember handing a pay envelope to my uncle Tom. Seemed a little awkward at the time. What I remember the most was that I had drunk way too much the evening before and thought I would die with some luck. Having to sit on a wooden stool in a concrete room for hours was an education that I had not anticipated. The kind men that took me under their wing also took me lawn bowling... Seems like a completely different time. I wish you all well.
Tue Jul 24 09:11:09 2007
Tina Roberts from Connah's Quay
My parents both worked at Courtaulds. Dad was from Henry Taylor Street and mum from Trelawny Ave. They met at work, married in 1949, lived in Primrose Hill, Holywell, then in the Holway till 1959 and then moved to Shotton were my dad worked in the furnaces until he was made redundant in the early 70s. My mum's dad was one of the first men to start at Summers.
Mon Jul 9 08:41:41 2007
Elizabeth Edward. Flint
Anyone remember my Dad - Joe Edwards, he was Shift Manager at Aber Works and during the War was Manager of the Bomb Filling Works at Aber. Lived in the Meadows. I had brother Milford(now in Shrewsbury) and sister Menna who has since died and also lived in the new Meadows. I now live in Middlesbrough.
Mon Jun 4 08:00:53 2007
Derek Roberts from Gold Coast (Australia)
My father, Bernie Roberts, worked at Courtaulds in Greenfield in the early 60s. He also worked as the MC at the Courtaulds club till we emigrated to Australia in 1968.
Wed May 16 15:02:37 2007
Chris Graves (Metairie, LA)
My father James E. Graves, worked at Courtaulds Fiber in Washington County, Creola, AL from 1956 to about 1992. I remembered that he was a dedicated employee, and always working double shifts to support his family. He also was a volunteer fireman for the company. He worked multiple jobs there such as a spinner and work in the maintenance department. He was always making knifes for the all employees and management. My dad has passed away and I am looking for anyone who remembers him. He owned a life insurance policy taken out at Courtaulds Fiber and I cannot locate it. Is there anyone that I can get in touch with to locate it.
Mon May 14 08:41:24 2007
John Cryer off Flint now Australia
Oh what memories. Lived in Flint till '78 when I left for Australia. Dad was Ralph Cryer late of Deeside Mill & Aber works. Remember playing at the Aber works sportsground. Does anyone remember the fairs at the sports field? I think there was a club house there; high divers into a water tub I remember from the '50s. Conkers galore on the trees next to the cricket pavilion. Remember the Empire theatre, good old pantos there. Bob Ducks, the Grand cinema; Mrs McCormick would clout you with her torch if she caught you making a noise or worse - smoking. The talent club at the Plaza run by 'uncle! BOB. Mary Matches, Bob Scratch & Phoebe, from Castle St. Makes me want to visit again before it's gone forever and catch up with friends old and new.
Fri Apr 27 09:47:24 2007
Mo off Flint
I too like Vicky Perfect started work at sewing in Deeside works (Mayfair), making black duffle coats and later at Aber works in the doubling dept making wool. When that closed down I went to Deeside in the sheds. The sheds were cold in the winter and boiling hot in the summer, you could not talk to anyone as it was too noisy, so we used to lip read. I was there at the end when it closed down, do you remember sister Darkin (WOW), Mr Flanagan the sewing manager, Big Vic on the gate, Mr Cooper (despatch), Mary Catherall (personnel officer), Jim Hughes, Jack Hales and many more?
Mon Apr 16 16:16:04 2007
William Arthur Bassford, Melbourne, Australia
Vicky, great to read your comments once again. Unfortunately. I have lost contact with the people of Flint, allthough as I sit here the names come flooding back. Is betty Cockings any relation to either Joe or Kenny? If so, her grandfather Joe Snr instructed us in first aid. The scout hut was situated on the football field before it burnt down. The scouts were very active when the evacuees arrived in Flint, helping with luggage etc.Flint had two good football teams, Flint Atheletic and Flint Town United. The game of games when those two met.I served in the Home Guard for a short period before joining the Navy. The commanding officer's name was Brown, he was headmaster of the TOP SCHOOL. I remember taking my first date to the Top Picture House - young ladies wore gloves in those days. Anyway Vicky, I had better close now. Thank you for the trip down memory lane, you have made an old man very happy.
Tue Mar 27 07:47:34 2007
violet Round nee Probert, Flint
Does Linda Evans nee Edwards mean Violet Probert and Phyllis Bradley? We remember getting drunk 1 Christmas in the winding room but we do not recall Linda. Can you please give us more information?
Mon Mar 26 08:55:03 2007
Robert Parry
My dad and my mum both worked at Courtalds. My dad, Harry, known as Harry the welder, worked there for about 20yrs from late 50s onwards. My mum, Joan Parry (nee Roberts), worked in the cone department. They had 3 boys and a girl -Shaun, Julie, Nicky, and of, course me. I have fond memories of mum and dad finishing their shifts and pocket money. They have both recently past away and will be deeply missed.
Fri Mar 2 08:41:54 2007
Vicky Perfect
I can remember my mother saying 'if you carry on eating like that, you will end up like Courtauld's big pig'. Did Courtaulds ever keep pigs? Does anyone remember them? Also did they ever have a veg garden that was mentioned too?
Thu Mar 1 08:42:07 2007
Jake
I would like to hear from anyone who worked on the demolition of this site.
Mon Feb 26 09:35:55 2007
Jake Mcdougall
Is the castle works still there as I worked there in Flint 22 years ago and I'm sure that was the name of the place we pulled down. The name of the company was Gommersall.
Wed Feb 21 11:49:29 2007
Glyn Short
I worked in Castle Works in the engineering department from 1972 till it closed, working in the beaming coning room. Met my wife there, enjoyed working there.
Tue Feb 13 14:47:43 2007
Elaine Moore
Both my mum and dad worked in Courtaulds. Hope someone remembers them. Billy George and Doreen George (nee Davidson). Can't remember the dates. Would be 1950-65 at the latest.
Wed Feb 7 08:42:29 2007
Judith Drinkwater
My grandfather was Edward Henry Bellis - he worked for Courtalds in Flint - moving to Wolverhampton with the company in the 1940s - does anyone have any recollection of him? My auntie Lizzie was a Sheadie before she married and my aunt Florrie Bellis married Eddie Hooson.
Mon Feb 5 16:10:54 2007
Vicky Perfect
William Arthur Bassford, Australia, tell us more of your time in Flint, and by the way a Betty Cocking still runs the Guides in Flint.
Wed Jan 24 09:34:31 2007
Tom Merola, Mold
Hi Linda, Do you know Ossie Smith? Did he work on the 1400 night shift?
Fri Jan 19 07:46:07 2007
Richard Lloyd, Harrogate
My dad Tommy Lloyd worked at Courtaulds at Greenfield site until 1957 does any one remember him? Also my auntie Mary Roberts (Pollie) worked at Aber and Castle works, she used to live on Feather Street.
Fri Dec 29 09:19:17 2006
William Arthur Bassford, Australia
I started work 1941/42 in the pulp shed, Castle Works, with blokes like Tom Parry Reg Hughes. Our boss was Harry who operated the guillotine. We let off steam by racing flat top trollies, two teams, three or four sitting on each trolly piloted by Tom & Reg. No work safety regs in those days. I transfered to the Vulcanising with Harry Edgerton from where I Joined the Royal Navy and on discharge migrated to Australia where at one stage I worked for Courtaulds Australia on the construction.
Sadly this was a short lived venture as Nylon replaced Rayon and finaly both were displaced by steel tyre cord. I lived in Salisbury Street and was a member of 1st Flint scout troop and still have fond memories of wartime dances in the bottom works ballroom. If anyone has knowledge of the Cockings family who lived in Henry Taylor street or anyone ex 1st Flint or in fact anyone who remembers me I will be pleased to hear from you.
Thu Dec 28 11:20:53 2006
William A. Bassford, Australia
Vicky, I have wonderful memories of a girl who worked at Castle Works who used to go to work with rollers in her hair with a head scarf to hide same. I still love you Kitty.
Thu Dec 28 11:19:08 2006
Linda, St Asaph
My dad worked at Courtaulds for many years. I'd love to hear from anyone who remembers Ossie Smith.
Wed Nov 22 10:25:26 2006
Peter Hooson off Flint but now Devon
After leaving school at 15 in 1970, I got a job in Castle Works weighing pulp. Having had a relatively easy life at home and school, I didn't know what had hit me. Hard work came as a bit of a shock but I soon got used to it. The regimented routine of 'clocking on/off' soon sharpened your wits as any minutes late or clocking off early would result in a docking of pay! We had to weigh wood pulp onto stillages before it was transferred to the next part of the process. I think it was called 'steeping'. There used to be two sets of scales which were fed by two long mechanical rollers where the bales of wood pulp would be conveyed out of the pulp sheds by fork lift truck. The fork lift drivers were a good bunch and were always telling jokes. I cannot remember their names. My chargehand was a chap called Haydn who went eveywhere on an old bike and for years after I had left the town to join the Navy, he always asked my family how I was getting on. He got me out of a few scrapes too. Being kids as we were, we would play 'footie' in the pulp sheds at lunch or whenever, which was a big 'no no'. One day we were caught by the health and safety bloke who marched us in front of the department manager whose name I think was Joe Bellis (I could be wrong). As we were being given a good 'talking to', Haydn barged into his office and argued that we had accidentally kicked a piece of rubbish (which happened to be the makeshift ball!) and that we were not actually playing football at all. Mr Bellis took Haydn's word, as he obviously had a good reputation, much to the annoyance of the H&S rep. We lived to play another day! Me and Edward Sheadie held the 'world record' for weighing pulp, 27 stillages by 1030! Many years after I had left the town and the factory had been closed down, I was on leave and walking down that way with my wife Jill. Somehow, we managed to get into the old pulp sheds to find an inscription on the wall near the coat hooks, 'Pete Hooson& Ed Sheadie: 27 stillages by 1030-world record!' I can remember the process from wood pulp to rayon and was fascinated by all the departments that worked together to make it happen. The spinning section seemed like 'hell on earth' to me as a young boy and the smell was awful! However, I was always amazed at the skill of the men who seemed to get this thread from nowhere and produce a set of loops and flush it down into the machine whereupon a moving length of yarn was spinning away in front of your eyes. Despite fairly harsh conditions there always seemed to be a happy spirit within the factory which could be a lesson for today's industry to follow.
Tue Nov 14 16:23:41 2006
Ken Parry (Flintshire)
I am interested to hear of any PARRY who may be a relation to Thomas Parry born circa 1796 whose wife was probably Mary. There was a son Moses who probably had a brother Isaac plus other siblings.
They lived in the Axton area and later Ffynongroyw. Moses was married to an Elizabeth who came from Tremerchion, and he was a lead miner and later a collier.
Moses was born approx 1835 and is my great great grandfather. Any PARRY information greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Mon Oct 30 09:54:50 2006
Peter Holden
Planning Engineer then Plant Engineer (1966 - 78) A great team of tradesmen still missed to this day. Thanks to all you great guys, I'll never forget you.
Tue Oct 17 08:07:34 2006
Wynne Parry
My Dad, Granville Parry, and his brother Tom both worked at Courtaulds and I'm pretty sure that my Grandad Herbert Parry worked there too. Would to love to hear from anyone who remembers them.
Mon Oct 2 14:08:09 2006
Dave Owens (Holywell)
My first paid job was as a schoolboy during the summer (1966) shut down at Flint Courtaulds. We were used to clean down the machines. We lived near Greenfield Courtaulds and I can remember the cones from the factory were used as fuel or to light the fire at home
Tue Sep 5 10:54:13 2006
Vicki Blythin, Indian Wells, California, USA
The Blythin family comes from Newmarket, north Wales, relatives are still living there in Rhuddlan.
Tue Aug 22 09:33:35 2006
Bill W Prestatyn
When Courtaulds Castle works finally closed and was sold to Harry Spencer in the late 1970s, he gave me the oak plaque which I think used to hang inside the main entrance. I still have that plaque. It is beautifully carved and painted and stands about 18 inches high. Presumably it was originally commissioned when Castle works opened. Haven't decided what to do with it, but would welcome correspondence. It is no problem to provide a photograph if anyone is interested.
Thu Aug 3 13:58:11 2006
Steve Jones, Cambridge
I worked at Greenfield from 75 to 81. After 4 years (aged 19) I was put in charge of boiler house instrumentation, bale handling automation and water treatment. My main memory is of vast amounts of piping running the full length of Number 2, from outside our instrument shop all the way down past acid recovery. Industry on that scale is never seen today. In also remember my first day at work, outside the canteen near Number 1. I hadn’t even turned 16. First weekly wage - 10 quid! I wonder how the other apprentices made out after it shut.
Mon Jul 17 12:06:48 2006
Vicky Perfect
I ask everyone to keep posting their memories of working in Courtaulds it is very important, because children of today have no idea what it would be like working in factories that were so big and how hard the work was. Keep posting your memories they are so interesting.
Mon Jun 12 08:48:11 2006
Barrie Roberts
I am married to patrick foley's daughter but i also lived in flint. my father was a policeman in flint, his nickname was dick barton, his real name was stan roberts. i went to chester road primary school then the gwynedd before moving to nannerch. my best friends them days where the hughes who lived on albert ave while we lived at 178 prince of wales ave. reading the stories on these pages bring many memories to me, mostly good. i was a choir boy at st davids in oakenholt. i could fill pages about the good times. i feel sorry for kids these days we could do and go anywhere with out fear.
Mon May 22 10:43:56 2006
Eleanor Tatler, off Flint
I worked in the castle works to start with in the seventies, and was taught coning by a woman called Maud. She scared the living daylights out of me. She was a proper old maid with twisted plaits wrapped around each ear, and stood with her hands on her heavy hips and a glare in her eye that could kill. She was good at her job though. I moved over to the Deeside mill, they weren't as scary there, after trying every job there I ended up in the twisting, each had a partner on huge double decked machines. My partner was Pauline from Bagillt. Incidentally we went on to be the best double twisters in the mill at the time.
Mon May 8 10:54:20 2006
Vicky Perfect
How many of you remember in the 1960's how some of the girls would go to work with rolls in their hair and a scarf on. I had a friend at the time who would go to work on the morning shift on a Monday with rollers in her hair take them out on Thursday wash her hair and but them back in again until Saturday, she couldn't understand why her hair was so curly.
Wed May 3 12:12:06 2006
Trevor Williams Prestatyn.
I started work in Courtaulds on the night shift at Greenfield works in July 1969 aged 19 and was put to work in the spinning room. My God the smell was terrible and the acid that the viscose flowed through rotted every fibre it touched. The shift manager was Wally Simons whom I was scared stiff of. Being only 19 and newly engaged I remember going to work on hot Sat/Sun afternoons 2 till 10 and wishing I was with my girlfriend and mates going down the pub, but worst of all was working Christmas Day and New Year's Eve - not too bad on mornings 6 till 2 - but afternoons and nights, well you can imagine.
Then I was sent to work in the dryers and as the name implies it was hot and dry - but not smelly. The work was heavy and tiring, especially on lines 1 and 2 which were very fast. The most boring job in the whole universe used to be the spotter which meant you spent the whole shift sat in between the drying oven conveyor and the carding belt spotting contaminated fibro as it passed along a short conveyor belt. At this point I must mention health and safety for the poor old spotter's legs were dangling over a moving conveyor covered in fibro (cotton wool-like substance). Tere was a climbing, rotating wall of hundreds of sharp nails emmbeded in a conveyor belt and a mechanical comb that would disentangle the fibro as it was fed onto it. How I never ended up shredded, packed and baled whilst working the night shift as a spotter I don't know. However I was eventually promoted to the enviable job of permanent stitcher which meant I spent all shift running up and down the dryer floor helping each team of three - of which there were five - stitch the tops and bottoms of the hessian bales after which I had to manually truck each 400 hundred pound bale into the warehouse. Oh happy days.
Thankfully, I escaped in 1975 when the factory went on strike for, I think, 13 weeks and I found a new career as a machine tool setter which I still pursue to this day. Old mates Collin (Cocky) Russell, Jim Hopman, Henry ?, Tony Espossito, Arthur Blythin, Big John, and a gorgeous blond in the office.
Thu Mar 23 21:46:44 2006
Cooperman
Who remembers 'The Bear' that was supposed to be prowling round Castle Works in the 70s? Bob Hampson 'identified' the footprints. It made headline news in the local rags. Girls working 2 til 10 insisted that their husbands or boyfriends met them out. What a brilliant wind-up. Some were party to the leg pull but never divulged the person that thought it up. I'm sure he would have got into serious trouble, because at the time it affected Castle Works' production.
Fri Mar 17 03:37:03 2006
sue panton lincolnshire
My mother (recently passad away aged 93) worked at Courthaulds as a young girl. Courhaulds were opening a factory in Canada and my mother was asked if she wouldlike to go - she probably was about 18, her mother would not permitt it.
Many time through her life she wondered what might have been
Sun Feb 12 15:13:27 2006
Linda originally from Flint
My dad, Ossie Smith worked in Deeside Mill for years, I used to pick him up from work some nights. Does anyone remember him?
Mon Feb 6 17:34:42 2006
Linda Evans nee Edwards
I worked in courtaulds in flint. I worked with phyllis violet - they used to go like lightning. One christmas time l got really drunk those were the days. we had a great laugh. Now l live in Llandudno
Sun Feb 5 20:11:00 2006
Barry White, Victoria, Canada.
My parents worked in Courttaulds and we lived in Henry Taylor St. Father name John White and my mothers name Marion Molyneux. I have fond memories of the castle and the marsh. Played football for the Gwynedd school 1951.
Sun Feb 5 14:25:48 2006
caroline moran nee williams good year arizona
i worked at deeside mill from 1956 till 1963 those were happy days but getting up for mornings was very hard coming from mold on one of philips old damp cold bus brrr i would love to hear from the old gang of the 400 shift
Thu Feb 2 02:12:59 2006
Chris Hughes OFF FLINT
I started at castle works in 1974,In the wrapping dept as a trucker running my guts out to make the bonus the girls were the best in the world .The head of the dept was Mr Bennet nice guy,Then i startted up in the spinning ,that was an art in its self. its true the fellowship beteen the workers was somthing that will never be seen again, please keep this site going ,ta.
Fri Jan 27 20:30:41 2006
Lorrain Evans nee Jones
I left scool on the Friday in 1969 and started work on the Monday at Castle works in the Cake Wrapping Dept. My first wage was £8.00 for forty hours, it was very hard work and the acid from the yarn rotted your clothes.We were on piece work and if you were fast you could earn a lot of money. I worked with the fastest wrappers of all time Phillis, Violet and Margaret Beck.
Fri Jan 20 20:37:18 2006
Alan Jones
Courtaulds, Castle Works, Flint: I worked there from 1958-1963, in various departments. 7.30am start 5pm finish. Hard work, on the go all day, for about £4.50 a week. Made many great friends there, and see quite a few of them today. I also remember Haydn, an apprentice "Brickie". Working with Vic & Georgie "Woodenleg".
Fri Jan 20 13:30:49 2006
Roger Aston (Ottawa, Canada)
My dad Sam Aston was Works Chemist at Courtaulds Castle Works from 1945 to 1956 when we emigrated to Canada. I attended Canon Drew school in Hawarden and we lived on the Welsh Road in Garden City. I remember going to the works with my brother and falling in the water wearing our Sunday best clothes, trying to walk around the castle. Sister Pritchard from the works surgery dried us out.
Fri Jan 20 13:30:32 2006
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