My family moved to Newton Aycliffe late 1952/early 53 when I was a few months old. Together with my elder brothers, Michael and Brian, and sister Marjorie, we lived at 5 Shafto Way, now demolished.
I too started school at ‘The Flats’ and then went to Sugar Hill. I have a class photo taken when we must have been 5/6+, all sitting with our teacher on tiny school chairs.
I remember going to film shows at the Beveridge Hall, including the time when the Brooke Bond Tea chimps appeared!
My Dad also worked at ENV/Eatons for about 20 years, as an engineer. My Mum had various jobs in those early years, some at Neville Parade shops and also serving petrol at the garages on the A167, Aycliffe Village.
Obviously, I still live here, I do remember your name and some of the others you mention.
Newton Aycliffe may not be perfect, where is, but we had a happy childhood, as did my children too.
Roger Pounder.