The Hyde community is being invited to come together this April to celebrate the life and legacy of former Hyde High School headteacher Barry Cooke OBE, who passed away in January.
A Life Celebration event will be held at Hyde Town Hall on Saturday, April 18, from 1pm to 3pm. Former pupils, colleagues and local residents are all warmly welcomed to attend and share memories of a man who made a lasting impact on more than 3,500 students during his time at the school.
The event will run as a relaxed drop-in session, allowing attendees to arrive at any point during the two-hour period and stay for as long as they wish. Visitors will be able to view a collection of photographs, videos and written tributes, as well as sign a book of memories. There will also be an opportunity for people to record personal reflections about Mr Cooke on video.
From 1.45pm, the afternoon will include music alongside a number of short contributions from former members of staff, offering further moments of reflection and remembrance.
Mr Cooke is fondly remembered not only for his leadership but for the care, encouragement and guidance he gave to generations of young people. When he first took on the role of headteacher at what was then a struggling school, he took the unusual step of standing in the foyer of a local supermarket to personally encourage parents to consider Hyde High School. The initiative proved highly successful and played a key role in transforming perceptions of the school within the community.
Former pupil Jonathan Robinson said: “Mr Cooke’s leadership of Hyde High School created a positive legacy for thousands of pupils and staff, and this event can bring us all together to celebrate that achievement.”
Anyone who knew Barry Cooke is encouraged to attend and be part of the celebration.
Event details:
Hyde Town Hall, Tameside
Saturday, April 18
1pm to 3pm (drop in at any time)
To confirm attendance, email: barrycookecelebration@gmail.com
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