Seeking out benefactor

11:00am Thursday 15th May 2008

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HE was one of the town's most celebrated benefactors, yet few today will recognise the name of Dr Richard Allanson Gaskell (1828-1913).

Now the hunt is on to trace a photograph of the great man, together with historical details. These would be mounted prominently at Allanson Street school, Parr which sprang from his generosity and is currently celebrating its centenary.

The good doctor also gave his surname to nearby Gaskell Park.

Believed to have had a medical practice in Church Street, St Helens, Dr Gaskell was a wealthy man. He was thought to be connected with the Pilkington glass family.

In 1904, he gave land to the council for educational purposes. An original tin school' was built, later to be succeeded by the award- winning Allanson Street building.

Present headmaster, Chris Maloney, is attempting to research the life of the benefactor.

"We are eager to trace any picture of him. The ambition is to mount this, together with a tribute to his great gifts to edcuation and other causes."

ANYONE who can help can ring Mr Maloney at the school on St Helens 678144.