Black Combe Students dominate the competition in science and sports

Howard Falconer and Andrew Walker, both 11, of class eight at Back Combe Junior School, faxed a letter to The Mail which was never printed on to paper until reaching the newspaper’s office.

WINNER: Deana Carlton wins the year six race at a sports day at Black Combe School in 1998

The school had its own network of computers, including CD roms and colour printers, and the faxed letter was part of an experiment.

Howard, who lived at Oxenbows Farm, Haverigg, said: “We sent the letter to the headmaster’s computer without printing it out, then it was faxed straight from his computer.

“I think the system here is quite good.

“This was really just an experiment. We didn’t know if it was going to work or not.” Howard was asked to carry out the experiment because of his keyboard skills and Andrew was involved because of his spelling prowess.

Headmaster Chris Driver said the school was hoping to go on to the internet.

In 1998 two sports days were held in three days at Black Combe Primary School.

The first was the school’s inter-house competition.

STUDENTS: Pupils of Black Combe School in 1988

Though overcast, the rain held off for most of the day.

The event was well supported, with plenty of parents in attendance.

All the children gave their best and every child took pride in taking part.

Headteacher Mr Whitfield said: “We had a successful day. It was nice to see so many parents turned up to spectate.

"It did rain towards the end of the day and we were quite lucky to fit the events in."

CHEER: Black Combe School pupils cheering at a summer sports day in 1998

The second sports day of the week was an inter-schools competition between Black Combe, St James,' Broughton and Haverigg Primary Schools.

The schools, which were competing for the Ken Shaw Cup, were sporting as pupils cheered for not only their own schoolmates but pupils from other schools as well.

Black Combe won the competition, a few points ahead of nearest rivals St James.