WALKING past my old primary school during a recent fleeting visit to the Land of the Bear, my mind drifted back to those days when lessons were briefly put on hold and desks were pushed against the wall for a country dancing session.

My favourite tune was Among the Leaves So Green-o which stayed at the top of my personal charts until being knocked off the top slot by Buddy Holly’s That’ll Be the Day.

Sadly, the memory will forever be tarnished by the thought of Janet Lovell’s nail-bitten hands clutching mine as we crashed about on the splintery boards of Churchover Parochial School’s single classroom. I have no idea what became of ‘Clammy’ Janet, anymore than I know the fate of Wendy the kiss-chase queen.

Sometimes, it’s best if the past remains another country.